In a poignant farewell, Barbados bid a heartfelt goodbye to Jackie Marshall-Clarke, a veteran broadcaster and communications expert whose legacy of dedication and kindness has left an indelible mark on her community.
During an emotional thanksgiving service, colleagues and loved ones remembered her as a pillar of professionalism and compassion, whose impact extended far beyond her roles at the Barbados Light & Power Company and the Caribbean Broadcasting Corporation.
Light & Power managing director Roger Blackman paid tribute to Marshall-Clarke’s unwavering dedication and the lasting impact she left on those around her.
He said: “Jackie’s legacy is one of unwavering commitment and profound impact. Her ability to balance professionalism with genuine care made her an irreplaceable part of our team. Hardly a conversation would end without her asking how your family was doing, and she’d ask for them by name. She always showed interest in both the professional and personal lives of her colleagues. Jackie’s dedication to her work was matched only by her love for her family.
“The passing leaves a void that will be deeply felt by all who had the privilege of knowing her; as we navigate this period of grief, we take solace in the memories of her kindness, human spirit, and her enduring legacy. Her spirit will be forever a part of Light and Power, and her impact on her lads will never be forgotten. Gone from our sight but never from our hearts.”
Pearson Bowen, the CBC’s television programme manager, spoke of the deep sadness he felt upon hearing of her passing. Having worked with Marshall-Clarke on various programmes, he recalled the overwhelming emotions he experienced during a CBC tribute to her.
“I did not know how much I had melted at that point. So they [the production team] allowed it to run as I settled myself because that’s my friend…Jackie was my friend. I am sure for a lot of Barbadians who did not know her personally, they felt that Jackie was their friend,” he said.
“I’ll miss my friend; the CBC thanks her for her contribution to broadcasting for Barbados and to the rest of the world.”
Marshall-Clarke’s daughter, Kristen Clarke, gave a deeply personal tribute, reflecting on her mother’s strength, resilience, and devotion to family, even in the midst of her battle with breast cancer.
She said: “Those years were filled with what I call great tenacity. Through that relentless fight, we developed a hurdler’s form to efficiently clear each obstacle while minimising our time spent airborne. With every directive, we kept our heads down and we moved swiftly forward. I cannot begin to imagine the internal hardship she may have faced, yet she put up a stellar fight, mentally and physically. Even in the toughest of times, she showed up. For work, for family, and for life. She kept active and engaged.”
Clarke spoke of her intentions to cherish the memories she has of her mother.
“These few years have been the proudest I’ve ever been to call you mommy. We fought tooth and nail together like partners in a three-legged race. I’ve seen so many sides of you that I never knew existed, and while I will miss our Friday midday mindfulness meetings, I promise to continue to fulfil your mission and my life’s purpose until my final breath. To my mother dearest. My sweet girl. Jackie Marshall-Clarke. May I inherit half your strength…from your pride and joy,” she said.
(SB)
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