Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) Vice Chairman, Douglas Gittens, who succumbed to COVID-19, was on Thursday given an emotional send-off as scores of persons from all phases of society bid their final farewell.
Gittens, up to his time of demise, served on the Region Democratic Council (RDC) but was a teacher and an executive member of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR).
A section of the gathering at the funeral service in Linden
Opposition Leader Joseph Harmon expressed his grief at the sudden passing of Gittens, whom he referred to as a “very special youth”.
He recalled speaking with Gittens via telephone mere hours before learning of his passing, noting that he could not come to grips with the tragic news. Harmon described the now dead Gittens as a loving, joyful, friendly and helpful person.
“This was a young man who loved people, and the tributes before me attest to that fact. He was always willing and ready to serve. Linden, Region 10, must be thankful to the Almighty God for having such a special human being…Douglas Gittens was a good, young leader in this community; committed to the development of the township and Region 10,” the Opposition Leader stated.
Harmon extended heartfelt sympathy to his family as he pledged to stand by their side and to continue to honour his legacy.
The casket bearing the body of Douglas Gittens at his funeral service on Thursday
Vice Chairman of the PNCR, Annette Ferguson said Gittens was a true comrade and patriot. She recalled that Gittens, who was a teacher by profession, joined the party through its Youth Arm in 2008.
“Comrade Douglas served selflessly and whenever called upon… always exemplified readiness to go beyond the call of duty,” Ferguson told those who gathered at the Christianburg Community Centre Ground in Linden.
Regional Chairman Adams who fought back tears during his tribute said he lost not only his colleague but a friend.
“A stalwart member of the People’s National Congress Reform, he worked tirelessly to advance the party’s mandate…His work and enthusiasm on the campaign trail, in ordinary party outreaches and in every other aspect of activities organised by the PNCR in Region 10 will surely be missed. Service to the people of Region 10 was an extremely important aspect of the life of Douglas Charles Gittens…Douglas Charles Gittens left a memorable impact on everyone he came into contact with…always eager to be considered a ‘man of the people’, always preferring the company of the average resident…always ready and willing to discuss ways and means in any area,” Adams recalled.
Meanwhile, Head Teacher of the Mackenzie High School, Haslyn Small in his tribute said it was a solemn occasion, as he remembered Gittens as a dedicated teacher, Councillor, budding entrepreneur and an ardent supporter of the Arsenal Football Club.
He recalled that Gittens taught at the CSEC and CAPE levels and was deemed a “Master Teacher” and had the nickname “Mr CAPE” after he was awarded “Best Teacher” for several years.
He further described Gittens as a well-rounded, lovable and likable individual who loved sports. Small related that the staff has lost a very dedicated “champion teacher” who was well respected and respectful.
Gittens, 38, passed away on June 13 after he was diagnosed with COVID-19.
