EDMUND Everad Jones, former Justice of the Peace and architect, who played a key role in developing several housing projects across the island was last week hailed for his contribution to nation building.

A Mass of the Resurrection for Jones, who passed away on May 13 at age 90, was held at the Church of the Transfiguration in Kingston last Thursday.

Scores of family members, friends and close relatives wept openly while others fought hard to hide their pain over the passing of Jones.

"He was a father, a grandfather and a friend. He was special," son of the deceased, Jeremy Jones, regional director for Sandals Resorts International, said.

Journalist, Tony Patel described Jones as a man with an indomitable spirit while Reverend Franklyn Jackson, rector of the church who spoke about how Jones lived, said he played a wonderful innings.

Jackson also encouraged others in the congregation to follow the example left by Jones and not to mourn because he was safe as God had prepared a place for him.

"We want to see more people making their mark like Mr Jones who contributed positively to nation building," said the minister.

"Too many of our children are finding it hard to find role models. It is time for adults out there to start playing their part and setting examples for youth to follow," he added.

The clergyman also lamented the high levels of crime that continue to rock the nation despite authorities efforts to keep things under control.

He cited a high level of laziness and the breakdown in family values as the reasons for these growing problems.

"Family life is under attack and we have to take it back," said Reverend Jackson.

Many were pushed to the point of tears when singers DiMario McDowell and Charmaine Limonious did their rendition of the song The Prayer.

"He was a good man and a good friend to have," one man could be heard telling a friend as the singers lifted their voices in praise.

Grandchildren of the deceased also added their voices to list of persons who paid tribute.

"To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant," said Amanda Jones who represented four of Mr Jones' grandchildren who read Ecclesiastes Chapter 3: 1-14 at the service.

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