KINGSTON, Jamaica – Former Member of Parliament Jolyan Silvera on Friday remembered his late wife Melissa as a loving person who was the “heartbeat” of their family.

In a moving tribute to the late businesswoman at her funeral held at the St Andrew Parish Church, the former St Mary Western MP also hailed Melissa as a nation builder who had a profound love for Jamaica.

Silvera died on November 10 aged 42. It was initially reported that she died in her sleep. However, the death is now being investigated as a possible murder after a post mortem revealed that she was shot at least three times.

WATCH: Funeral for Melissa Silvera underway

“She was not merely a collection of moments within our home, she was the heartbeat. Her story woven into the fabric of our family unfolded with grace, determination and a brilliance that illuminated every corner of our lives,” Jolyan Silvera stated in his tribute, which was read by his mother Cynthia on his behalf.

Jolyan and Melissa, who got married in 2015, shared four sons together. Jolyan said, as a wife and mother, Melissa was “unparalleled”.

“Her dedication knew no bounds and she approached parenthood with an unwavering commitment. From the smallest milestones to significant life events she stood by our sons Adam, Aden, Justin and Axel with the radiance of pride and joy,” he said, adding “Her love for them was the driving force that shaped the very core of her existence.”

He said he is determined to pass on her legacy of love, which he said extended beyond their home, to their sons.

“As we navigate the void left by your physical absence, I am committed to carrying forward the flame of love, ensuring that your legacy flourishes in the hearts of our sons,” he said.

An alumnus of the University of Virginia, where she studied chemical engineering, Melissa Silvera served as CEO of Moda Petroleum Company Limited.

According to Jolyan, chemical engineering resonated with Melissa’s “inquisitive mind and determined spirit”, but he said she also “possessed a natural flair for planning and logistics that would become the hallmark of her career.”

He said her dream was to build a logistics hub in St Thomas.

“She was a force of nature, a nation builder in her own right whose ambitions were deeply rooted in a desire to create a brighter future for our family and country,” Jolyan said.

He said in Melissa’s memory, he holds close the lessons of compassion, support and unwavering love that she embodied.

“Melissa, your legacy is not confined to the walls of our home. It ripples through the interconnected web of relationships and love you so beautifully cultivated. Your memory remains a comforting beacon of inspiration and enduring love for us all,” Jolyan said.