Major’s tribute

There was a somber mood at The Lodge School today as staff, students and old scholars viewed the body of Major Sam Headley, a stalwart of that institution.

The body of the public servant pioneer in national security, who was instrumental in creating the Barbados Coast Guard, lay in state for two hours, this afternoon.

Major Headley, 89, died last month, after ailing for some time.

Principal Winston Dowridge, told Barbados TODAY that Major Headley, who became the first black head boy of the grammar school in 1947, was an integral part of the history of The Lodge School.

Major Sam Headley’s relatives, including his son Dr Sam Headley, daughter-in-law Dawn Headley, grandson Stephen Headley, daughter Pamela Headley, and granddaughter Priscilla Headley, viewing his body at the Lodge School yesterday.

“Throughout his life he contributed to the cadets at the school. There is a fund at the school in his name; the Major Sam Headley Fund, through which we seek to provide assistance for students who are in need. Every year when we commemorate the founding of the school, we always make sure that the students get the understanding of Major Sam Headley, the role he played at the school, and the contributions that he made to The Lodge School,” Dowridge said.

His son, Dr Sam Headley, thanked those at the school who made it possible for his father to lie in state there, a place that he held close to his heart.

“I know daddy would have appreciated this honour that was given to him. The Lodge School meant a lot to him. He came here as a little boy and had some tremendous experiences that shaped his life.

“So much so that he would always talk about The Lodge School, and it meant a whole lot to him. So I am so thankful that my sister Pam and others here at the school made it possible to have his body here for the viewing,” Dr Headley said.

Major Headley’s friend and prominent businessman Ralph Bizzy Williams, was among those who viewed the body.

The funeral service and burial of Major Headley, will take place at Coral Ridge Memorial Gardens, Christ Church, tomorrow, starting at 10 a.m.
anestahenry@barbadostoday.bb