Astor B Watts laid to rest

BELOVED Democratic Labour Party (DLP) elder Astor B. Watts was laid to rest yesterday.

Following the COVID 19 restrictions, only a small gathering of friends and family made their way to the St. Ann’s Anglican Church in St. Joseph for a service of thanksgiving, which celebrated the life and times of Watts.

The well-loved DLP elder was remembered by close friend Ricky Straker who delivered words of appreciation during the service held graveside yesterday morning. Giving a glimpse into Watts’ life, he noted that in the 60’s he migrated to St. Lucia and joined the insurance fraternity as a sales representative. It was there that he met his life-long partner - Vivian Mayers also known as “Mum” and the union produced a daughter, Sue. An ardent supporter of the DLP, he joined back in 1970.

“He joined Rayside Concrete Works and was responsible for credit control. Many can attest to his astute business relationship in extending credit arrangements to a lot of lower Barbadian working class moving from chattel house to concrete structures. ”

Straker recalled that Watts was a fierce debater and spoke without fear at party and branch meetings. “He was an unofficial campaign manager and usually party candidates sought his wisdom. He was also a branch Chairman and served on the executive and general councils of the party for many years. He was knowledgeable in all aspects of Barbadian life and regularly referred to major happenings over the years, of which many in discussion were unaware of. Astor B. had many friends and acquaintances of all strata of society. He knew many people from all parts of the island and many knew him. He was small in stature but when he spoke he commanded everyone’s attention.”

“He adopted many grand-children and supported how he could his stepchildren, nephews, nieces and other siblings. He treated everyone with respect and bore no malice to anyone.

”‘AB’ was a dresser whether at home, casually or attending and official function. He made sure that his appearance was immaculate from head to toe. He was also a ferocious reader and listened and participated in the various radio call in programs over the years.”

Straker recalled that in spite of failing heath in the last few years, he was determined to reach the coveted century and remained positive without complaining. “Days before his passing, he was very disappointed that he could not have his usual birthday get-together with his close family and a few friends due to the COVID-19 situation. He even indicated that he would celebrate it after the curfew period. Sadly, this was not to be as he passed away the evening of Monday 20 April 2020...“Vale amici mei” Farewell my friend," he said.

On the passing of his death President of the DLP Verla DePeiza remembered the 98-year-old,as one who was loyal to his party and who helped where he could, to reshape it.

“He joined the DLP in its fledgling days and walked tall alongside noted cornerstones like Errol Barrow, Branford Taitt and James Tudor. He was not afraid to debate them on issues and was active from early in policy development,” DePeiza said, as she paid tribute to Watts.

“He never craved the frontline politics, but was active in the engine rooms. He related not only with the faces of the Party but also kept close ties with the Young Democrats.

A remembrance service is expected to be announced after the current public health crisis has passed.