Man with a heart of gold and a true servant

Mark Titus, Gleaner Writer

WESTERN BUREAU:If there were ever a genial, genuine, teamplayer, and Jack of many trades who served his church and community of Springfield in south St James with all his heart, it was Wesley Fowles.

A son of the soil, Fowles attended the Springfield All-Age School and Glendale Academy.

On leaving school, he became an accountant, businessman, and a prominent farmer in the western region. He played significant roles in various community projects, including the Emancipation Vigil in July, and Flames of Freedom, celebrated at Tulloch Castle in December.

"Deacon Fowles had a heart of gold, ever so willing, a true servant," said the Reverend Joseph Anderson. "He will be sadly missed."

He also served as president of the Spring Mount Consultative Committee; treasurer and area leader for the Lay Magistrates' Association, St James Chapter; and in several agricultural associations, including the Rural Agricultural Development Authority, the Jamaica Agriculture Society, and the All-Island Banana Growers' Association (AIBGA).

"Mr Fowles championed the cause of the small farmer and sought to ensure that not only his, but the welfare of all those around him, was taken care of. He was a real champion," Grethel Sessing, chairman of AIBGA, told Western Focus recently.

ACTIVE IN CHURCH

At the Springfield Baptist Church, Fowles was a deacon, Baptist Circuit treasurer, treasurer for the Baptist Circuit Benevolent Fund, chairman of the property and building committee, and member of the Circuit Education Committee.

He also gave extraordinary service to the Brotherhood, serving as president at the church and parish levels, as well as vice-president of the church's national body.

He died leaving behind his wife of 51 years, Phyllis Fowles, and six children.

'Mr Fowles championed the cause of the small farmer and sought to ensure that not only his, but the welfare of all those around him, was taken care of.'