New Amsterdam, Berbice – Tears flowed freely as friends and relatives eulogized the woman who was possibly the oldest woman in Berbice – Ms. Ursula Julian.The Howard’s Alley, New Amsterdam resident died on June 22, just one month after she celebrated her 106th birthday. The celebration of her life was held at the Mission Chapel Congregational Church on Friday.‘Cousin Ursulla’ was a stickler for discipline. Her eldest grand-daughter, who is the Principal Physiotherapist at the Ministry of Health, Beverly Nelson, in presenting the eulogy, described her as a woman for all seasons.“She was known as someone who left herself undone to ensure others were okay. Cousin Ursulla was also mother to scores of children who passed through her care, and was definitely a favourite.”At the church service, Secretary of the Mission Chapel Congregational Church, Winifred Haywood, said that though the old woman was not involved in its actual organization, she was a part of the Stanleytown Women’s Union for several years. “She has been one of those humble, peaceful and quiet members. She was a part of the senior citizens luncheon.”Mrs. Ursulla Julian was a member of the Mission Chapel Congregational Church for more than 70 years. She received her final communion less than a month before her passing.Deputy Mayor of New Amsterdam, Hyacinth James, was another to pay homage to the centenarian. “She was a dedicated member, a regular churchgoer, until she became incapacitated and had to be served communion at home.“The fact that she lived to 106 is a testimony to the life she led. She was a good person.” The officiating pastors were Tyron Sulker and Winifred Samuels.Ms. Faye Kesney, the last of four grand-children, took care of her. She related that ‘Ma,’ or ‘Cousin Ursula,’ as she was fondly called, fell from her bed as she attempted to get off on June 14. Two days later,Kyle Lowry Raptors Jersey, she was taken to the New Amsterdam Hospital after she stopped speaking and eating.While hospitalized, though she was not speaking, she recognized persons and in her own way tried to respond. In her final moments she began speaking, and prayed to God as she offered her soul.She was not the only one in her family to reach a century. Her sister made it to 104. Cousin Ursulla had lost her sight in the 1990s, and also had a hearing defect. She was interred at the Stanleytown Cemetery in New Amsterdam. |