A tribute to My Dearest Aunty Lydia:
From: BELANDS Parchment 


It was in the early 70s that I became most aware of  an aunt by the name of Lydia Blake who had Immigrated to England.  It was interesting to note that her name became popular amongst family members because of her love and generosity to the families especially at Christmas.  Every Christmas aunty would without fail  send gifts of singing £ notes that was always welcome melodies to our families. 


A few years later the News were spreading like wild fire amongst our families  - Aunty Lydia was coming on holiday. There were excitement in the air and great anticipation for me, I need to see my aunt in the flesh.  


When she finally arrive I was up early run down to grandma to see our celebrity Aunty - we’ll she was a chip off the old block, Grandma spitting image.  She was sweet and full of smiles and humour almost beaming from ear to ear and she certainly did not disappoint. 




Aunty Lydia brought gifts for everyone it seem she had hired a plane with the amount of stuf she had to give away. 


Aunty gave me a cherished brown leather band watch with the word Ingersoll written inside. that I will never forget, in fact she had fuel my taste for watches I have become addicted as a result of Aunty’s injection.  


As time and years elapse I arrive in Britain and within a short time spend a week in Sheffield with my dear aunt.  Our communication since then by phone was never a dry moment I make her laugh and she cracked me up every time.  I use to say Wonnie Roach what kind of mischief are you up to now, she would say things like laud Belan you always know how to lift me up when am down. 


When Aunty move to Wolverhampton I was privileged to visit her with my family and that day was another unforgettable day which enable me to see two of my cousins I haven’t seen since they left Jamaica.


I call Aunty a week prior to her sad passing and I could hear the changes in her voice, it was almost obvious that the Lord had seen it fit to call Aunty to rest. 


Aunty had live a good life and her legacy will live on and on….   


Gone but not forgotten are the words that comes to mind. 
Gone but not forgotten, memories frozen in time.   


For where words has fail the beating of the love in our heart speaks volumes. 


Rest in peace my Dear Aunty Wonnie (Lydia)
You will always be remembered until that day when we will by the Grace of our Lord never part again. 


BELANDS Parchment