Dear Editor,

Having heard and read of the great and varied accomplishments of Professor Rex Nettleford, but nothing much of his teens, please allow me to add a little part.

One of my greatest treasures is a 4″ x 3″ black and white photo taken of our junior choir about 1950, on the steps of Holy Trinity Anglican Church, Montego Bay, then at the corner of St James and Barnett streets.

There in the third row extreme left are Rex Nettleford (tenor soloist), Anthony Bartley, Derrick Harvey and myself and others. The choir numbered 34. Can you imagine these voices leading praises to God, the Great Giver of all things good, including the various talents — even dancing and culture?

As is expected, all 34, and the organist and Choir Master VA Percy-Jarrett parted one by one, and some reunited on different occasions.

In response to my invitation as Chairman of the St Mary Ministers’ Fraternal, about 1975, during my service as Rector of the St James Church, Annotto Bay Cure, Rex addressed us. Subsequently, we met on rare occasions, but still remained “Rex” and “Vernon”.

Jamaica and indeed the world have lost an illustrious son. We extend to all his relatives our sincere sympathy.

May his soul rest in peace, and light perpetual shine upon him.

Rev Vernon W Scott

Mandeville, Manchester