ANNAKAY Ziadie-Lazarus, 43-year-old operator of the Pineapples and Onions catering establishment, who passed on December 4, was remembered as a warm and loving individual whose sudden departure has left a devastating void.

The mass of thanksgiving which celebrated Ziadie-Lazarus’ life was held on December 17 at Sts Peter and Paul Church, located on Old Hope Road in St Andrew.

The cheerful attire of the mourners seated in the 58 pews of the church did little to lift the sombre atmosphere of the Roman Catholic church following the start of the service. Indeed, the songs Fly Away Home, Bridge Over Troubled Water and Rivers of Babylon, sung by vocalist Dwight Richards, caused many to be moved with emotion.

Lazarus’ cousin, Katherine Ziadie, in her tribute described her sudden departure as one reality she will grapple with for years to come.

“My beloved AnnaKay, my favourite cousin, warm and loving, was beautiful inside and out. She was always impeccably dressed. She was blessed with the gift of generosity. She was always giving,” Katherine Ziadie said as tears streamed down her cheeks.

According to her father, Errol Ziadie, who offered the remembrance, his daughter was a loving, nurturing and protective mother of her two boys, Todd, 13 and Zach, 10, who believed strongly in family.

“Live, love and laugh, that was AnnaKay’s motto. Anyone who knew her could not and will not forget her again. I cannot find anyone who didn’t love her,” he said.

“She was a determined fighter. Apart from the business side of her, she was a great daughter and mother. She and her mother and her brother loved each other passionately. She loved her brother unconditionally,” Ziadie added.

He said the loss has had a major impact on her two boys. He then read two letters written by each of her sons after her death.

“AnnaKay had her ways with young people and they could always relate to her. I can’t explain how much I miss you. You always said everything happens for a reason. She is now at peace and she has no more worries. As the children have said, she was so positive, full of love, laughter and life,” he said.

Monsignor Michael Lewis, in his homily, reflected on her 43 years of life and the impact Ziadie-Lazarus made to the world.

He told the mourners that, as they grieve, they should encourage themselves with the precious memories of how kind she was and trust in God.

“You will only understanding this faith by trusting in God. In our trust in God the Lord says to you and me as he said to Mary and Martha, just hold my hand,” Lewis said.