By Saschelle McDonald, Gleaner WriterWHEN NAAMAN Alveranga, the closest friend of the late Rev. Dr. Osmond Gladford Harris was asked what he remembered most about his friend, his response was quick and decisive.
"He was the most humble, God-fearing man I ever knew, always going to the extreme to help others. He was a superb role model too."
A true man of the cloth, Rev. Harris was born and grown in the district of Orange Hill, St. Ann, and educated at the United Theological Seminary, formerly the Calabar Theological College.
Shortly after, at the relatively young age of 28 years, he became the Minister of the Croft's Hill Circuit of churches, a position he held for the rest of his life. Although the number of churches in this circuit has narrowed down over the years, it remains the largest circuit in the Jamaica Baptist Union.
He became more dedicated to the gospel, and during his life as a Minister, he undertook and carried out the building of new churches in Clarendon Crofts Hill, Coxswain, Rhoden Hall, and Top Hill; and one in Douglas Castle, St. Ann. He also built a mission house in Crofts Hill, and supervised the remodelling of others.
On June 19, 1963, Rev. Harris married Dulcie, his childhood sweetheart. They loved children, and while they never had any of their own, their home was blessed with 14 foster children, whom they showered with all the love and care in their hearts. His son Paul describes him as a loyal man who was dedicated and committed to his duties, as well as being a "caring shepherd for his sheep."
Rev. Harris was given a badge of honour for long service in religion and community development. He was also a Justice of the Peace for the parish of Clarendon and sat on many boards form the parish to national level.
His widow Dulcie will always remember him as a loving person who would go the extra mile to help people. "He had many friends, was very cheerful, sociable, hospitable always welcoming and offering you something to eat. So many people will miss him," she said.
Rev. Harris departed this life on Sunday, July 27, leaving wife Dulcie, brothers Lambert and Martin, sisters Gwendolyn and Blossom, 14 children, and a host of other relatives and friends. The funeral service was held on Saturday, August 9, at the Paradise Baptist Church, Clarendon.
