Although Anastazia Ali lived for nine short years she has left a legacy of love, joy and faith that can never be destroyed.
Pastor Victor Jogee said that was evident from the many fond memories of her shared by her relatives, friends and teacher during her funeral service at Faith Centre, San Fernando, yesterday.
The Standard Two student of St Gabriel’s Girls’ RC School drowned along with her grandfather, Morris Sammy, who tried to save her when they got into difficulties in waters near Coconut Drive, Mayaro, during a family beach outing two Sundays ago.
Ali was remembered as a brave, bright, happy, warm, talkative and friendly child, who, according to her cousin Jada Sammy, had a smile that lit up any room.
The first of her parents two children, Jada said Ali had big dreams and aspirations and was an inspiration to her relatives.
Her contagious life and humour had them rolling with laughter, said Jada who described her as one of the greatest joys in the family.
Monsignor Christian Pereira, who thanked the church for allowing him to participate in the service, said yesterday was a special day since it was the day the Blessed Virgin Mary was taken up in the heavenly realm.
Expressing condolences on behalf of Ali’s school and the RC Church to parents, Any and Stacy, and son, Zane, Pereira said: “We deeply appreciate your generosity in allowing us to be a full part of this service which speaks volumes indeed. It speaks volumes of the healing of our city as we open our hearts and our churches to each other and show to our children the respect we hold for one another,” he added.
Jogee said some people might say Ali’s death was premature but she was called back to heaven because she achieved her purpose on earth. Her teacher, Dixie-Ann Lee, who delivered the eulogy, recalled fond memories of Ali’s home and school life.
“Quite the chatterbox, very sociable, a jubilant spirit, happy, were just some of the words she used to describe her.
Her classmate, Zara Pariag, recalled Ali would shout from across the classroom when their teacher separated them to speak with her as she and another classmate, Kirsten Graham, reflected on the last moments they shared with her.
Ali’s life was also celebrated in dance, poem by her schoolmates, Spirit Academy, a dance troupe of which she was a member, St Joseph Convent choir, among others.
The funeral service for Ali’s grandfather took place last Friday at Guide’s Funeral Home, San Fernando.