Scores of mourners gathered at St Luke’s Anglican Church on Friday to remember Dennis Leopold Clarke as a revered trade unionist who dedicated his life to the service of others.
Among those paying tribute were Prime Minister Mia Mottley, family, friends, colleagues, and political figures, all of whom celebrated Clarke’s legacy of selflessness and commitment to social justice.
Clarke, a former general secretary of the National Union of Public Workers (NUPW) and recipient of the Barbados Service Star, was hailed for his tireless advocacy for workers’ rights and his skilled negotiating abilities. His influence, both locally and across the region, was highlighted as mourners reflected on his lifetime of service.
The tributes began with a deeply personal reflection from Clarke’s daughter, Nicole, who described her father as her “first love”. In a heartfelt ‘love letter’, she spoke of their close bond and shared memories of the man behind the public figure. Following her was Clarke’s son, Stefan, who praised his father’s resilience and tenacity, qualities he demonstrated even in the face of professional adversity.
Thomas Letang, general secretary of the Caribbean Public Services Association (CPSA), described Clarke as a man who never hesitated to help others.
“He never said no when his services or assistance were required. I could rely on him and would call him at any time for advice,” Letang told the congregation.
Clarke’s vast experience, eloquence, and knowledge, particularly on issues like pension reform, were instrumental in securing workers’ pensions in Grenada and benefitted trade unions across the Caribbean, he added.
Letang also credited Clarke with transforming the NUPW and mentoring a new generation of trade unionists. “Brother Clarke’s contribution has helped in transforming novices into well-seasoned and effective public sector trade unionists. He was committed to regionalism and the upliftment of the working class, and believed in the elevation of young workers and women in key trade union positions.”
The regional trade union leader who is also general secretary of the Dominica Public Service Union, also revealed plans to host an annual memorial lecture in Clarke’s honour.
Reverend Yolanda Clarke, delivering the homily, urged the St Luke’s congregation to follow Clarke’s example by championing the cause of the voiceless.
“We should not only be content to say that Brother Dennis was a good man but we should want to be like him,” she said, describing Clarke as a “champion of social justice”.
“Honour his legacy and live as he sought to live,” Reverend Clarke said, reminding all of the enduring influence of a man who spent his life advocating for a fairer society.
