Nettleford cremated, official funeral confirmed

Professor Rex Nettleford's body has been cremated in the United States and the ashes are to be transported to Jamaica for an official funeral next Tuesday.

Vice-Chancellor of the University of the West Indies, (UWI), Professor E. Nigel Harris, will accompany the remains home later this week.

Nettleford's funeral will take place at the University Chapel, Mona campus, at 10 a.m.

Olivia Grange, minister of youth, sports and culture, made the disclosure during a press conference at the UWI in St Andrew yesterday.

Condolence books will also be opened in honour of Nettleford at locations to be announced.

According to Grange, the Government has taken the position that, although the funeral is official, the activities will be collaborative, accommodating the wishes of persons who were closely affiliated with the cultural icon.

Parliament suspended

As part of the events to give tribute to Nettleford, business will be suspended in Parliament next Tuesday to accommodate tributes from members. Former Prime Ministers P.J. Patterson and Edward Seaga will be among persons to make their contributions at that time.

The UWI is spearheading the planning of all the activities to celebrate, recognise and pay tribute to the renowned son of Jamaica.

A grand cultural jamboree is also being planned for Thursday, the ninth day since Nettleford's death. This celebration will be held at the Ranny Williams Entertainment Centre.

Nettleford died last Tuesday at The George Washington University Hospital in Washington, DC, days after suffering a heart attack on January 27.