Those were among the emotional words delivered by Prime Minister and Political Leader of the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party, Gaston Browne, during a candlelight vigil held Friday night in honour of former Minister of State and longtime Labour Party stalwart Mary-Clare Hurst.

Addressing a large gathering of ABLP supporters, family members, friends, and political colleagues, Browne described Hurst as a loyal and unwavering comrade who stood firmly beside the party through both triumph and adversity.

Prime Minister Gaston Browne

“We are gathered here this evening, with heavy hearts and profound sadness,” Browne said. “But we are here also with profound gratitude as we pay tribute to our fallen comrade, a loyal daughter of the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party.”

The Prime Minister praised Hurst’s decades of dedication to the Labour movement, noting that she had been a member of the ABLP from her youth and remained faithful to the party until her passing.

“She was more than a political supporter and officer of our party. She was a stalwart. A woman of conviction. A woman of courage,” Browne told mourners gathered at the vigil.

ABLP supporters, family members, friends, and political colleagues gathered at vigil

“I will miss her immensely,” he said.

Minister Maria Browne

The Prime Minister also highlighted Hurst’s loyalty during politically difficult periods, particularly following the 2023 elections when criticism against the party intensified.

“Many stand firm only in moments of comfort and success. However, true comrades reveal themselves during difficult periods,” Browne stated. “Comrade Maryclare Hurst stood firm.”

Throughout the evening, candles flickered as supporters paid tribute to Hurst’s life, service, and commitment to the party and country. Many attendees embraced, prayed, and shared memories of the woman affectionately known by many as “Tanty.”

Browne described Hurst as dependable, grounded, humble, and fiercely committed to public service, adding that she viewed leadership not as privilege but as responsibility to the people.

Minister Charles Fernandez

“She sought to uplift others and contribute meaningfully to national development,” he said.

The emotional ceremony ended with prayers and tributes as party supporters honoured Hurst’s legacy of loyalty, patriotism, and service to Antigua and Barbuda.

“May the soul of our fallen Comrade, Maryclare Hurst, rest in eternal peace and rise in glory,” Browne said.