Horace Clarke was no 'political tribalist'
Published:Wednesday | July 28, 2010 | 12:00 AM
Janet Silvera, Senior Gleaner Writer
WESTERN BUREAU:
Interred in a spot overlooking the Caribbean Sea, after three thanksgiving services celebrating his extraordinary life, Horace Antonio Clarke was laid to rest on the grounds of the St Mary Parish Church, Port Maria on Monday.
Hundreds from across St Ann, Portland and St Mary, as well as Opposition Leader Portia Simpson Miller, came out to show their respect to the politician described by chairman of the People's National Party's (PNP) communications commission, Dr Peter Phillips, as "no political tribalist".
Saw people for their worth
In fact, the former government minister saw people for their worth and not their political persuasion, said those who spoke of the man who had a passion for service and concern for those he came in contact with.
"Horace made a very tangible and exceptional contribution to nation-building in Jamaica," lauded Phillips, before he outlined an impressive list of achievements by the son of St Mary.
Clarke's wife Norma, and her children, Julie and Andrew, sat in the front pew, hardly able to contain their emotions, as they listened intently to the three-hour service celebrating the life of the trailblazer whose illustrious contribution made such an impact in shaping the landscape of contemporary Jamaica. On several occasions Mrs Clarke broke down listening to the accolades strewn on the father of her children.
Phillips said 'Skip', the name Clarke was fondly called by his friends, was a big man with a big heart.
"He never kept a grievance. He took his knocks in life, but never stopped loving life," he added.
Contribution to education
Clarke, who was also big on education, was instrumental in building the Islington High and Brimmer Vale schools in St Mary, provided computer laboratories at St Mary High and followed his conviction that education offered the most effective means of social upliftment for the poor and disadvantaged.
He died on July 10, seven days shy of his 75th birthday.
Since resigning from politics, Horace Clarke has ventured into other things. Over a year ago, with his friend of 38 years, Michael Drakulich, he opened one of the country's most impressive attractions, Mystic Mountain.
"Without Horace, there would be no Mystic Mountain," said Drakulich in his tribute, fighting to hold back tears. "I always found wisdom in his words."