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Glendevon’s Errol Campbell hailed as ultimate public servant

Published:Monday | February 11, 2019 | 12:00 AM

WESTERN BUREAU:

Errol ‘Mouly’ Campbell, who served as councillor for the Glendevon division but who was best known for his community activism in St James, was eulogised as the ultimate people’s person at a well-attended funeral at the Burchell Memorial Baptist Church in Montego Bay on Saturday.

The 65-year-old Campbell, who died on January 12 after a protracted battle with throat cancer, was hailed for his involvement in politics, sports administration, and social work in his community.

Julian Robinson, general secretary of the Opposition People’s National Party (PNP), and Dr Wykeham McNeill, vice-president, spoke glowingly of Campbell’s unwavering support for the party and its ideals, harking back even to his early participation in the PNP Youth Organisation.

“We have lost a stalwart, a man who was literally born into the PNP as his mother was a campaign worker over many years,” said Robinson. “Mouly was one of those persons who did a great deal of grass-roots work for the party and was always advocating for those whose interest he served.”

Donald Colomathi, his former colleague in the St James Municipal Corporation, hailed Campbell’s community service, including the establishment of a self-titled football league that featured numerous teams from Glendevon, Norwood, and Bottom Pen, among others.

“He believed in promoting unity among the communities regardless of their political alliance,” said Colomathi, referencing Campbell’s long-standing belief that a community that plays together stays together.

Campbell’s commitment to family and his concern for all children were highlighted in the eulogy, which was delivered by his son, Errol Emmanuel Campbell Jr, and a tribute delivered by family friend Hope Sterling.

“He was always seeking ways to better the community. Be it his annual back-to-school treat, the community football competition, or as president of the citizens’ association, he was always doing something to better the community,” said Sterling. “He was a believer, and once he set his mind to something, he would never stop until he got the desired result.”

Campbell, who is survived by sons Emmanuel S. Campbell and Errol Emmanuel Campbell Jr, was interred at the family cemetery at Land Top in Chester Castle, Westmoreland.