Family mourns: Former First Lady laid to rest

Davion Smith, BVI News Journalist

Mourning family members of former First lady Lillian Romney clung to each other for comfort as they stood over Lilly’s white and gold casket where her lifeless body rested.

Relatives wept as they said final goodbyes to Lilly, who was wife to late Chief Minister, Cyril Romney.

Lilly was remembered today as many things, more so, a committed wife and mother.

“While fulfilling her obligations as First Lady, Lilly successfully managed the family enterprise and raised five well-rounded daughters,” said government minister Mark Vanterpool, who delivered the eulogy at the New Life Baptiste Church in Duff’s Bottom today.

The minister said though Lilly married a man who held the highest position in government, she proved herself to be a strong entrepreneur and formidable leader as well.

“When Lilly lost her husband in 2007 she knew her role as leader of the family was two-fold. Although she was semi-retired, there was no question who had the final say in the business.”

Vanterpool, who served as Vice President while Lilly was President of the Basketball Association, also described her as superb athlete.

“Her love and passion for tennis shot her up to the regional ranks making her one of the top female players within the British- and US Virgin Islands,” Vanterpool said to the funeral gathering.

Meanwhile, other officials who attended the thanksgiving service included Minister of Health and Social Development Ronnie Skelton, Representative of the Second Electoral District Melvin Turnbull, and Opposition member Julian Fraser.

The former First Lady died on September 30 after battling with illness.

She is survived by her five daughters, eight siblings, 11 grand children, five great-grand children, as well as nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.