YVONNE Haynes, 47, a member of the Carifolk Singers, died suddenly Friday afternoon after she fell ill while on the job at the National Housing Trust (NHT) head office in New Kingston.

Jeneita Townsend, general manager for human resources at the NHT, told the Observer yesterday that Haynes was found slumped over and motionless in one of the company’s bathrooms by a member of staff. She was rushed to the nearby Medical Associates Hospital where she was pronounced dead on arrival.

She had earlier in the day complained of a headache and stomache ache.

Haynes, who appeared in the national pantomime for more than six years, also appeared in five major plays, including Louis Marriott’s Lovey and more recently Bedward. She also featured in four commercials and was a member of the Carifolk Singers for more than five years.

Silton Townsend, popularly known as “Mass Gussy” in the sitcom, Lime Tree Lane said the pantomime had lost a very dedicated actress.

The actress previously worked with the NHT in 1998 as an administrative assistant for a special project until she left in 2001. She returned to the company two weeks ago to work as a temporary senior secretary in the Loan Management Unit. During her tenure, she was a member of the company’s drama group and chorale.

Haynes’ best friend and co- worker, Ann Vidal, described her as being a jovial, lovable person who had a passion for the Lord. She said that like most of her co-workers, she was traumatised by her friend’s passing.

“I can’t eat properly, I haven’t been sleeping well. I just have to try to reflect on the good times,” she said.

Members of the Loan Management Unit will receive post-traumatic counselling tomorrow from the Family Life Ministries to cope with the passing of their colleague.

Haynes is survived by her three daughters and her mother.