In Memoriam
Basil Cuthbert Rodrigues
(June 13, 1932 – May 9, 2014)
Husband, father, composer, musician, teacher, folklorist
…friend
Basil Cuthbert Rodrigues
(June 13, 1932 – May 9, 2014)
Husband, father, composer, musician, teacher, folklorist
…friend
Basil & the Mariaba Band
Basil Cuthbert Rodrigues -
(June 13, 1932 – May 9, 2014)
A true and beloved son of Guyana
A true and beloved son of Guyana
EULOGY
by Stephanie Walls
by Stephanie Walls
We are here today to celebrate a life well lived. Basil Cuthbert Rodrigues was born on June 13,
1932 at Bullet Tree, Waini to Uncle Stanley Rodrigues and his wife, Aunty Ena
and he passed away peacefully on May 9, 2014.
Basil was a humble man, but also a man of great wisdom and insight. He was, by profession, a teacher and there are many of his students today who remember that he not only taught them to read and to write but taught them about life and its values. He started teaching in the Rupununi when he was 19 years old. Later, he became headmaster at Shea School, then at Aishalton School where he taught till he retired in 1991. He and his family then returned to take up residence at Santa Rosa. He taught for a while at the Santa Rosa Primary school before he retired fully.
Basil was also a composer, musician/singer and story teller, but his most important role was that of husband to Dolly, his beloved wife of 55 years and father to his four children, Curt, Kay, Bev and Wally. He was so proud of his children. Sadly, he was predeceased by his son, Curt in 2009, but hopefully today they are once again reunited.
Basil loved to write and I loved receiving letters from him. He wrote with great style and humour and of course, perfect penmanship and grammar! Bless you, Sir, an amazing feat in this day and age!! Basil also told many wonderful and funny jokes and we would be rolling with laughter at his jokes.
He was the recipient of many awards which he proudly displayed in his home
I said before that Basil was a humble man. He worked his entire life and never aimed for the material things that so many find important. He provided shelter for his family and made sure there was enough food on the table for them and anyone else who happened to visit.
He loved to pick any fruit in season and bring it to the table for us. He had started some renovations to his house and I think this was to ensure that we were comfortable when we visited. This was absolutely not necessary as that particular house was filled with love and comfort.
Basil believed in Jesus Christ, his Lord and Saviour and worked side by side with many of the priests at Santa Rosa over time. He never missed Mass, not until the walk to the church started to take its toll on him and there were times that he would still try to get to Mass, but had to rest several times till he made it to the Church. I am sure that Basil’s many efforts were appreciated by the priests at Santa Rosa.
I am so glad that my family and I visited Basil and family in March, 2014. I had a feeling that it would be the last time we would see him. However, Basil, more than anyone I know, realized that our stay on this earth is temporary as we pass through to everlasting life with our Lord.
I read this poem once and I hope that it can bring some comfort to Dolly, Guy, Bev, Wally, Kay, his grandchildren and his surviving sister, Aunty Teka, his brother John and all his nieces and nephews. Indeed, to all of us. We will miss you, dear Basil and we will try not to grieve forever, but remember you fondly with love and laughter. R.I.P. Brother.
I’m Free
Don’t grieve for me, for now I’m free. I’m following the path God laid for me. I took His hand when I heard him call. I turned my back and left it all. I could not stay another day, to laugh, to love, to work or play. Tasks left undone must stay that way. I found that place at the close of day.
If my parting has left a void, then fill it with remembered joy. A friendship shared – a laugh, a kiss; Ah yes, these things, I too will miss. Be not burdened with times of sorrow, I wish you the sunshine of tomorrow. My life’s been full, I savoured much. Good friends, good times, a loved ones touch.
Perhaps my time seems all too brief, don’t lengthen it now with undue grief. Lift up your heart and share with me, God wanted me now and He set me free.
***
Basil was a humble man, but also a man of great wisdom and insight. He was, by profession, a teacher and there are many of his students today who remember that he not only taught them to read and to write but taught them about life and its values. He started teaching in the Rupununi when he was 19 years old. Later, he became headmaster at Shea School, then at Aishalton School where he taught till he retired in 1991. He and his family then returned to take up residence at Santa Rosa. He taught for a while at the Santa Rosa Primary school before he retired fully.
Basil was also a composer, musician/singer and story teller, but his most important role was that of husband to Dolly, his beloved wife of 55 years and father to his four children, Curt, Kay, Bev and Wally. He was so proud of his children. Sadly, he was predeceased by his son, Curt in 2009, but hopefully today they are once again reunited.
Basil loved to write and I loved receiving letters from him. He wrote with great style and humour and of course, perfect penmanship and grammar! Bless you, Sir, an amazing feat in this day and age!! Basil also told many wonderful and funny jokes and we would be rolling with laughter at his jokes.
He was the recipient of many awards which he proudly displayed in his home
- 1991 - Medal of Service for his community work in the Rupununi
- 1998 - Arrow of Achievement for his teaching and musical endeavours
- 2003 - The Wordsworth McAndrew Award for outstanding contribution to Guyana's culture and Heritage
I said before that Basil was a humble man. He worked his entire life and never aimed for the material things that so many find important. He provided shelter for his family and made sure there was enough food on the table for them and anyone else who happened to visit.
He loved to pick any fruit in season and bring it to the table for us. He had started some renovations to his house and I think this was to ensure that we were comfortable when we visited. This was absolutely not necessary as that particular house was filled with love and comfort.
Basil believed in Jesus Christ, his Lord and Saviour and worked side by side with many of the priests at Santa Rosa over time. He never missed Mass, not until the walk to the church started to take its toll on him and there were times that he would still try to get to Mass, but had to rest several times till he made it to the Church. I am sure that Basil’s many efforts were appreciated by the priests at Santa Rosa.
I am so glad that my family and I visited Basil and family in March, 2014. I had a feeling that it would be the last time we would see him. However, Basil, more than anyone I know, realized that our stay on this earth is temporary as we pass through to everlasting life with our Lord.
I read this poem once and I hope that it can bring some comfort to Dolly, Guy, Bev, Wally, Kay, his grandchildren and his surviving sister, Aunty Teka, his brother John and all his nieces and nephews. Indeed, to all of us. We will miss you, dear Basil and we will try not to grieve forever, but remember you fondly with love and laughter. R.I.P. Brother.
I’m Free
Don’t grieve for me, for now I’m free. I’m following the path God laid for me. I took His hand when I heard him call. I turned my back and left it all. I could not stay another day, to laugh, to love, to work or play. Tasks left undone must stay that way. I found that place at the close of day.
If my parting has left a void, then fill it with remembered joy. A friendship shared – a laugh, a kiss; Ah yes, these things, I too will miss. Be not burdened with times of sorrow, I wish you the sunshine of tomorrow. My life’s been full, I savoured much. Good friends, good times, a loved ones touch.
Perhaps my time seems all too brief, don’t lengthen it now with undue grief. Lift up your heart and share with me, God wanted me now and He set me free.
***
TRIBUTE PAGE FOR BASIL CUTHBERT RODRIGUES
Update on Basil......it is with deep regret that I let you all know that Uncle Basil passed away early this morning (Friday May 9, 2014). Thanks to all the friends and family who kept sending messages while he was in Hospital. Dolly appreciated all the support. We will all miss this incredible man who touched so many lives with his funny stories and his friendliness. Rest in Peace Basil.
Special thanks to Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, Gilly & Colin Crane, Pat Pierre, Rohan Sagar, Karen Persaud, Berlinda, Medino and many others who provided support to Dolly while Basil was in the Hospital. A special thanks to the Moruca stalwarts who kept an eye on the house & Kay & Bev while Dolly was away. Thanks to Whanita Phillips & Graham Atkinson for providing photos so we could share with the group and thanks to the many musicians..Vic Ferreira, Murphy De Souza, Marco de Souza etc who played and sang during the service.
Ana Da Silva Ferreira
I unite to all the family in pain on the loss of such a dear person; may his soul Rest In Peace
Karen Persaud
Uncle Basil I will always remember your smiling face when we visited you last Monday and how happy you were by the time we left the hospital. You put us in a cheerful mood but so sorry that I didn't get to see you yesterday when I went there. My condolences to auntie Dolly and the rest of the family. May uncle Basil rest in peace
Jimmy Campbell
I waited with the hope that it was not true. Moruca lost a champion, a hero and a father. Just one day to dad's first death anniversary. Rest in peace great man.
Chris Walls
Rest in peace Uncle Basil and Godspeed…I love you and you will be missed!! I’m so sorry for your loss Aunty Dolly and I wish I could be there to help you…I love you very much and you are all in my prayers.
Lisa Bourdages
Aunty Dolls, you are all in our thoughts and prayers. Gary and I wish so much that we could be there to say goodbye to Uncle Basil. Give Bev and Kay a hug for us.
Stephanie Fraser
My deepest sympathy to Aunty Dolly and the relatives of our beloved Uncle Basil. He lived a good life and has made his mark in the history annals of Guyana with his extraordinary talents. May his soul Rest In Peace.
Yonette Edwards
So sorry to hear. My deepest sympathy to the entire family. Mr Basil Rodrigues will live on in our memories. He has been a great inspiration to so many of us living in the interior. He did a great job. May he RIP
Shevon Griffith
May his soul rest in peace, RIP uncle basil! U will always be in our memory
Dexter N Lall
May his soul Rest In Peace.
Kate Mathews Morris
I am so sorry to hear this, may he rest in peace with the angels above. My thoughts and prayers are with all his family and friends.
Simone Fredericks
On behalf of the Santa Rosa Village and Village Council My condolences to the family and friends of uncle Basil may his soul rest in peace
Tai Eusebio
RIP Uncle Basil,my sincere sympathy to Aunt Dolly and family,this is just really sad indeed,he was such a nice person
Jackie Atkinson
Our deepest condolences to Auntie Dolly and family. Our thoughts are with the family in this sad time.
Whanita Phillips
My sympathy to Aunt Dolly and the family of uncle Basil...may his soul rest in peace.
Deborah Atkinson Bacchus
May Aunt Dolly and the rest of his family find comfort in all the great memories of him. May his soul rest in peace!
Keith Antonio Hernandez
I am so sorry to hear this. I was fortunate to meet him during my trip last year, always smiling and being such a great host. I have heard so many great things about him and the lives that he has touched. My deepest condolences to Dolly and the rest of the family. May he rest in peace
Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett
My deepest condolences to Aunty Dolly, family and indeed the wider community for the loss of a husband, father, grandfather, teacher, mentor, musician, national awardee and so much more. His work will live on in the many songs he composed and in those whose minds he moulded. We will forever be grateful for his service to our country. Guyana has lost a great son. RIP Uncle Basil
Francina Daniels
My sincere condolences to Aunty Dolly and family. Moruca has indeed lost a great legend!
Susan Morris
My deepest condolences to Aunty Dolly and family for the great loss of Uncle Basil, he is now with the angels in heaven. May he rest in peace.
Samantha King
My deepest sympathies to Dolly, Kay, Bev and Wally along with the entire family. Basil was a sweetheart who shared his talents with everyone for the sheer joy of it. His music will live on offering a reminder to all of his championship of Guyana and its Amerindian people. Any who knew him personally will miss him as I will.
Averill Henry
our condolencs to Rodrigues family.., may basil r.i.p.
Trisha Larose
This is a great lost for so many of us ......uncle basil a true hero in so many ways in my school days putting me up to dance for our region( #1)mash reaching the national level and achieving my first ever award for me at age 11 my award was all of his best o effort and great success with this my heart is so sadden by your passing and your achievement in me and so many other lives mourcas and Guyana will dearly misses you but will live on in our hearts . My condolence to Aunty dolly and the rest of family R.I.P uncle basil.
Rowena Chappell
Really sad news , a really sad day in Moruca and beyond , he touched so many lives with his humility and kindness . Sleep well Uncle Basil . My deepest sympathy to Dolly , Jean Rodrigues , Stephanie and the rest of his family and friends.
Miranda La Rose
My condolences to Auntie Dolly, the extended family and to the Moruca family. A great Guyanese. I pay tribute.
Graham Atkinson
Consummate teacher, Cultural icon, folklorist, poet, extraordinary human-Uncle Basil Rodrigues is no more. Condolences to Aunty Dolly and his family!
Karen LaRose
Thanks for sharing this imformation Gray, realy sad news, my sympathy to aunt Dollie and the rest of the family . Uncle B will missed by us all. God is love you guys, be strong!!!!
Whanita Phillips
Moruca mourns for Uncle Basil Rodrigues.
Jackie Kris L
OMG.....Really very sad news indeed...!! with heavy hearts I share my hearts sympathies and prayers to dear Aunty Dolly and the entire family that surrounds him. He will always have a special place in our hearts.
Whanita Phillips
Moruca has lost a legend sleep on dear friend.
Susan Da Camara
I'm so sorry to hear this...my deepest condolences to the family.
Peggy Barker
So sorry to hear about uncle Basil,my deepest symphaty to aunt Dolly and the entire family,Rest In Peace Uncle B you will always be remembered as a jolly and loving person.
Margaret Hazlewood Clark
Condolences to Aunty Dolly, Bev, Kay, Wally and all of the family. Uncle Basil was one of a kind. I remember him well although I have not seen him in over 40 years. RIP.
Felecia Benn
My deepest sympathy to auntie Dolly and the rest of the family
Amanda Morrison
So very sorry to hear, our deepest sympathy to Auntie Dolly and the rest of the family!
Jennifer Fredericks Singh
So sorry to hear ,, a great man, a wonderful song writer, teacher and head master,, My deepest sympathy to Aunt Dolly and the rest of the family
Martina La Rose
To you auntie Dolly and the rest of the family, my deepest sympathy. He will surely be missed. R.I.P uncle Basil
Valerie Garrido-Lowe
My deepest sympathies to auntie Dolly and family. I am so sorry to hear of uncle Basil's passing. Uncle Basil is known far and wide for the excellent work he did in promoting Amerindian culture and I have always had the greatest respect for him. Because of precious persons like uncle Basil who were unafraid and unashamed to identify and share our unique culture with the rest of Guyana, we the First People of Guyana are now more emboldened to step forward and take our rightful place in our country with pride and dignity. For this I humbly thank uncle Basil and Auntie Dolly too for being by his side, understanding his dreams and helping him all the way. Rest in Peace dear uncle Basil, you lived a great life and have truly earned your place in history.
Angela Dias-Sancho
Deepest sympathy to the family. A great man, teacher, musician and advocate for Amerindian rights and culture. Rest in Peace, Uncle Basil.
Luduvina Rufino de Toledo
my condolences
Lynda Gomes
My deepest sympathy to aunty Dolly and the rest of the family. Rest in Peace, uncle Basil.
Ken C. La Rose
I will miss this great musician. My sympathy to Dolly & the rest of the family.
Monica Kenyon
My condolences to his family.
Leen Atkinson
My deepest sympathy goes out to Aunt Dolly and family, uncle Basil will be greatly missed, may his soul rest in peace.
鐘金
May his soul rest in peace... My condolences to the you, his family and all his many relatives and friends.
Beatrice Watson
I am so sorry Reg. I know he was more like a brother than a brother in law to you guys. My sincere sympathies to his immediate family and especially yur sister who would miss his greatly. May his soul rest in peace.
Maria V Rodriguez
Uncle Basil I loved and admired you always, you were that kind and friendly person that helped made me and many others feel welcomed with a feeling of I belong every time one visited and I know I will miss you. You and Dad were friends from the time you were teenagers and the letters never stopped until you returned to Santa Rosa. I am happy you were able to be with us on my birthday in Feb of this year at Limon and I will treasure those memories and many more memories. Uncle B I can still see in my mind's eyes your face so full of wonder and joy because that is what you were. God took you home before us and because we loved you so much it hurts. I pray that your welcome home be grand with the best of music because you are most deserving and I pray that Auntie Dolly, Bev, Kay, Wally, Auntie Tek and all the family be comforted by trusting in God's Love. Rest in Peace Uncle Basil.
Norma Anna Venton
Rest in Peace, Basil.
Your path through life, with all its vicissitudes, was a gentle and beautiful one, made fragrant with the flowers of your heart. I know that all who met you were touched by your genuine goodness, sharp wit, deep reverence for all life, and your music, which you so generously shared with us all. My deepest sympathy to Dolly, Bev, Kay, Wally, all the extended Family, and Friends. May you be comforted.
Anna Iles
Another elder angel in Heaven to watch over us. My sympathy to family and all friends and all lives he touched.
June Skevelair
My condolences to the Rodrigues Family and friends, may god grant you strength in this time of sorrow . Uncle basil will missed by many.
Liz Bolton
My daughter Mona and I are soooo saddened to hear of the death of uncle Basil. We only met him once but we felt we knew him for a very long time and was hoping to visit him again. I guess it wasn't meant to be. Our love, prayers and sympathy goes out to aunt Dolly and the family. May his soul rest in peace Amen
Eugene Rodrigues
My condolence to my sis and family.....Bas will be missed by everyone....our prayers are with you..
Marva Rodrigues
Hi Jean & Steph My deepest sympathy to you, Dolly and the family on the loss of a precious one! While I don't know Uncle basil very well, I do have fond memories of him and Dolly. One Xmas, my mom and dad took us to Shea to spend it with them and I remember, this doll like lady and man dancing forro! We had a great Xmas that year! Prayers and kind thoughts, and as I like to think, one more angel in heaven rooting for his family.
Berlinda Persaud
Just 2 wks ago I visited him at Woodlands Hpsp. I never knew that was the last time I would see him alive. Sleep on Uncle Basil. My sympathy goes out to Aunty Dolly and the rest of the family. May God grant you peace that surpass all understanding at this moment of bereavement.
Medino Abraham
Sad to hear the passing of uncle Basil Rodrigues this morning in Georgeown.. Uncle Basil worked most of his life in the Rupununi especially in the South among the Wapishana people.. The memories of this great sevice to them will remain in their memories,, especially those whom he taught at school.. May his soul rest in peace
Victor Ferreira
I have composed a song in tribute for Uncle Basil. I will sing it during the church service. I hope many Morucans will be there to share his life in song.
Gary Atkinson
It was so sad to learn of Unc Bas' passing on - always remember how he was such a jovial entertainer - do have a good day
Domini Walls
Rest in peace Uncle Basil. You were a loving and caring man and your memories will live on in the stories you told. My deepest sympathy to Auntie Dols, Kay, Bev and Wally. You are in my prayers.
Keith Walls
My deepest condolences to Dolly on the death of Basil.He will surely be missed.He was a very friendly and helpful person from the day I met him in Aishalton.May he rest in peace.He will be in my prayers.God bless and take care of yourself and family.
Dario Becerra
God Bless you always !!! great man !!! May your soul rest in peace and pray for us to Our Good God !!!
Lal Balkaran
I will surely miss his gentle nature, his humility, and his simplicity. I first met him in October 1970 when I arrived at Aishalton to start my teaching career in the South Rupununi and we kept in touch ever since. He has left a lasting impression on all who know him and though gone, he will not be forgotten. I am indeed pleased that he is profiled in my Encyclopaedia of the Guyanese Amerindians and a Photojournal of the Rupununi.
Lal Balkaran (Author)
Leslie Ferreira Lord
Life is so precious, we must enjoy every moment. I hope Auntie Dolly is at peace with this. I pray for God's comfort and strength for her and all of our family.
Moruca's Son...By Vic Ferreira.
From humble beginnings you came.
And worked diligently and made your name.
But these trappings never bothered you.
To your people you wanted to be true.
A place to live you always tried to find.
Santa Rosa lingered on your mind
South Rupununi you helped to build. .
Your songs and poems...they will always live.
Chorus: I turned on my phone today.
And only silence came my way.
Then my people called to say.
Moruca's son...passed away.
Your are a legend , a figure head.
The old, the young and the kids you led.
With your banjo, guitar and drums.
You created the most..magical sounds.
Etched on the heroes monument.
Your name affixed there was always meant.
And in our hearts you'll lie.
Moruca's son, you'll never,ever die.
Moruca's son, you'll never,never die.
Moruca's son, you'll never,ever die.
From humble beginnings you came.
And worked diligently and made your name.
But these trappings never bothered you.
To your people you wanted to be true.
A place to live you always tried to find.
Santa Rosa lingered on your mind
South Rupununi you helped to build. .
Your songs and poems...they will always live.
Chorus: I turned on my phone today.
And only silence came my way.
Then my people called to say.
Moruca's son...passed away.
Your are a legend , a figure head.
The old, the young and the kids you led.
With your banjo, guitar and drums.
You created the most..magical sounds.
Etched on the heroes monument.
Your name affixed there was always meant.
And in our hearts you'll lie.
Moruca's son, you'll never,ever die.
Moruca's son, you'll never,never die.
Moruca's son, you'll never,ever die.
National Awardee Basil Rodrigues laid to rest
May 14, 2014 Foreign Affairs Minister Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett and John Rodrigues (brother of the deceased), along with others, bear the casket of the late Basil Rodrigues out of the Brickdam Cathedral
Guyana on Wednesday bid farewell to Basil Cuthbert Rodrigues, beginning with a tribute programme and viewing followed by a short service at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, Brickdam.
Rodrigues’ body was then flown home to Moruca, Region One for the funeral service.
In recognition of his work in the Rupununi, Rodrigues was awarded a Medal of Service (MS) twice; in 1989 and 1994, by the Government of Guyana for his dedication towards the development of education, culture and community work.
He was also awarded the Arrow of Achievement (AA) in 1998 for his teaching and musical endeavours.
Delivering the eulogy, Foreign Affairs Minister Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett focused on the National Awardee’s life and contribution to the nation. Basil Rodrigues died just one month short of his 82nd birthday on May 9 after contributing more than 40 years to teaching and dedicating even more to his music.
An inspiration
Minister Rodrigues traced his life from Santa Rosa to Waini where he attained his schooling from the Roman Catholic nuns and began his musical life. At age eight, in 1952, Rodrigues began his life as a teacher in the Rupununi.
During this time, he married Delores, and together they parented four children, two sons – Wally, who is a malarial microscopist at Aishalton; Curtis (attacked and killed by a tiger in the Marudi Mountains), and two daughters, Beverly and Kay.
As a teacher, Rodrigues used both music and sport to help build the students’ confidence and was so successful that his school Shea Primary had the best drama and cricket clubs for years. Although he was a school teacher, he was also given and accepted roles as counsellor and community leader.
In 1992, with the intention of retiring, Rodrigues was nevertheless invited to rejoin the teaching service and taught in the local Santa Rosa Primary School.
In 2003, Rodrigues also received the Wordsworth McAndrew Award for his outstanding contribution in culture and in 2013; he was honoured by the Amerindian Affairs Ministry for long and dedicated service. He was also honoured by Pope John Paul II for his work in the Church in Guyana’s hinterland.
A series of tributes also lauded Rodrigues’ work and life over the years. Culture, Youth and Sport Minister, Dr Frank Anthony expressed sadness on behalf of himself and the staff of the Ministry at the passing of a teacher, village icon and cultural promoter. He expressed condolences to the Rodrigues’ family and relatives and Arawak residents of Santa Rosa, Region One.
The Minister also lauded the work by Rodrigues in the preservation and promotion of the Arawak culture through songs, poems, plays and dances. He urged persons to learn more about the late Rodrigues through his book entitled Uncle Basil – An Arawak Biography, which is available at the Walter Roth Museum.
Other persons paying tribute included Dawn Stoll, a former member of Uncle Basil’s music group; two former teachers, Michael Abraham and Stephen Gonsalves; his youngest brother John; and Father Terrence Montrose of the Roman Catholic Church.
May 14, 2014 Foreign Affairs Minister Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett and John Rodrigues (brother of the deceased), along with others, bear the casket of the late Basil Rodrigues out of the Brickdam Cathedral
Guyana on Wednesday bid farewell to Basil Cuthbert Rodrigues, beginning with a tribute programme and viewing followed by a short service at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, Brickdam.
Rodrigues’ body was then flown home to Moruca, Region One for the funeral service.
In recognition of his work in the Rupununi, Rodrigues was awarded a Medal of Service (MS) twice; in 1989 and 1994, by the Government of Guyana for his dedication towards the development of education, culture and community work.
He was also awarded the Arrow of Achievement (AA) in 1998 for his teaching and musical endeavours.
Delivering the eulogy, Foreign Affairs Minister Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett focused on the National Awardee’s life and contribution to the nation. Basil Rodrigues died just one month short of his 82nd birthday on May 9 after contributing more than 40 years to teaching and dedicating even more to his music.
An inspiration
Minister Rodrigues traced his life from Santa Rosa to Waini where he attained his schooling from the Roman Catholic nuns and began his musical life. At age eight, in 1952, Rodrigues began his life as a teacher in the Rupununi.
During this time, he married Delores, and together they parented four children, two sons – Wally, who is a malarial microscopist at Aishalton; Curtis (attacked and killed by a tiger in the Marudi Mountains), and two daughters, Beverly and Kay.
As a teacher, Rodrigues used both music and sport to help build the students’ confidence and was so successful that his school Shea Primary had the best drama and cricket clubs for years. Although he was a school teacher, he was also given and accepted roles as counsellor and community leader.
In 1992, with the intention of retiring, Rodrigues was nevertheless invited to rejoin the teaching service and taught in the local Santa Rosa Primary School.
In 2003, Rodrigues also received the Wordsworth McAndrew Award for his outstanding contribution in culture and in 2013; he was honoured by the Amerindian Affairs Ministry for long and dedicated service. He was also honoured by Pope John Paul II for his work in the Church in Guyana’s hinterland.
A series of tributes also lauded Rodrigues’ work and life over the years. Culture, Youth and Sport Minister, Dr Frank Anthony expressed sadness on behalf of himself and the staff of the Ministry at the passing of a teacher, village icon and cultural promoter. He expressed condolences to the Rodrigues’ family and relatives and Arawak residents of Santa Rosa, Region One.
The Minister also lauded the work by Rodrigues in the preservation and promotion of the Arawak culture through songs, poems, plays and dances. He urged persons to learn more about the late Rodrigues through his book entitled Uncle Basil – An Arawak Biography, which is available at the Walter Roth Museum.
Other persons paying tribute included Dawn Stoll, a former member of Uncle Basil’s music group; two former teachers, Michael Abraham and Stephen Gonsalves; his youngest brother John; and Father Terrence Montrose of the Roman Catholic Church.
Uncle Basil was a selfless and remarkable personality
May 13, 2014
Dear Editor,
Culture, Youth and Sport Minister, Dr Frank Anthony and staff are deeply saddened by the news of the untimely passing of teacher, village icon and cultural promoter Basil Cuthbert Rodrigues (Uncle Basil).
The Minister and staff express deep condolences to Uncle Basil’s family and our Arawak brothers and sisters in Santa Rosa, Region One.
Rodrigues was born on June 13, 1932 at Bullet Tree, Waini River before moving in 1940 to Santa Rosa to attend primary school where he was educated by Catholic nuns.
Uncle Basil was a selfless and remarkable personality who went above and beyond the call of duty to ensure the preservation and promotion of the Arawak culture among his villagers in Santa Rosa, Region One.
He will be remembered for the strides he made in putting together songs, poems, plays and dances which celebrated their ‘Amerindianness’, while at the same time inculcating nationalism and pride. It was his belief that with the necessary intervention, the Arawak culture would be rejuvenated.
Apart from his cultural achievements in song and poetry which told stories of his life experiences, Uncle Basil spent many years as a teacher in the Rupununi (Region Nine). He was 19 years old in 1951, when he left Santa Rosa to start his teaching career at a school in Karaudarnaua, deep South Rupununi.
While teaching in communities such as Shea and Aishalton, Uncle Basil used drama, music and sport as tools to boost his students’ confidence. That move resulted in Shea Primary having the best drama and cricket clubs.
In recognition of his work in the Rupununi, Uncle Basil was awarded a Medal of Service by the Government of Guyana for his dedication toward the development of education, culture and community work. He was also awarded the Arrow of Achievement in 1998 for his teaching and musical endeavours.
As a young man, Uncle Basil was deeply influenced by two persons who caused him to pick up the guitar as his musical instrument – his father who was a violinist and later Aloysius La Rose, who was another violinist and cultural visionary.
He was a lover of country and western music especially the tunes of Hank Williams Sr.
After returning to Santa Rosa in 1992, he rekindled his love for music especially the banchikili which was the main form of musical entertainment. He, along with several others, formed a band called the Mariaba String Band. Mariaba was the original name of Santa Rosa. The band included famous violinist, Aloysius La Rose called “Uncle Bull”, and Frank Hernandez who played the fiddle.
The band played the Banchikili music which was passed down from Spanish Arawaks who came from Venezuela in 1817 and settled in the Moruca area.
It is no doubt that Uncle Basil lived a full and exciting life, and this is in full view in his book entitled, “Uncle Basil – An Arawak Biography” which was transcribed, annotated and introduced by Justin Green-Roesel (1998). The book and CDs with his music are available at the Walter Roth Museum.
Yours truly,
Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport
May 13, 2014
Dear Editor,
Culture, Youth and Sport Minister, Dr Frank Anthony and staff are deeply saddened by the news of the untimely passing of teacher, village icon and cultural promoter Basil Cuthbert Rodrigues (Uncle Basil).
The Minister and staff express deep condolences to Uncle Basil’s family and our Arawak brothers and sisters in Santa Rosa, Region One.
Rodrigues was born on June 13, 1932 at Bullet Tree, Waini River before moving in 1940 to Santa Rosa to attend primary school where he was educated by Catholic nuns.
Uncle Basil was a selfless and remarkable personality who went above and beyond the call of duty to ensure the preservation and promotion of the Arawak culture among his villagers in Santa Rosa, Region One.
He will be remembered for the strides he made in putting together songs, poems, plays and dances which celebrated their ‘Amerindianness’, while at the same time inculcating nationalism and pride. It was his belief that with the necessary intervention, the Arawak culture would be rejuvenated.
Apart from his cultural achievements in song and poetry which told stories of his life experiences, Uncle Basil spent many years as a teacher in the Rupununi (Region Nine). He was 19 years old in 1951, when he left Santa Rosa to start his teaching career at a school in Karaudarnaua, deep South Rupununi.
While teaching in communities such as Shea and Aishalton, Uncle Basil used drama, music and sport as tools to boost his students’ confidence. That move resulted in Shea Primary having the best drama and cricket clubs.
In recognition of his work in the Rupununi, Uncle Basil was awarded a Medal of Service by the Government of Guyana for his dedication toward the development of education, culture and community work. He was also awarded the Arrow of Achievement in 1998 for his teaching and musical endeavours.
As a young man, Uncle Basil was deeply influenced by two persons who caused him to pick up the guitar as his musical instrument – his father who was a violinist and later Aloysius La Rose, who was another violinist and cultural visionary.
He was a lover of country and western music especially the tunes of Hank Williams Sr.
After returning to Santa Rosa in 1992, he rekindled his love for music especially the banchikili which was the main form of musical entertainment. He, along with several others, formed a band called the Mariaba String Band. Mariaba was the original name of Santa Rosa. The band included famous violinist, Aloysius La Rose called “Uncle Bull”, and Frank Hernandez who played the fiddle.
The band played the Banchikili music which was passed down from Spanish Arawaks who came from Venezuela in 1817 and settled in the Moruca area.
It is no doubt that Uncle Basil lived a full and exciting life, and this is in full view in his book entitled, “Uncle Basil – An Arawak Biography” which was transcribed, annotated and introduced by Justin Green-Roesel (1998). The book and CDs with his music are available at the Walter Roth Museum.
Yours truly,
Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport
Catholic
standard - Friday May 15th, 2014
By Francis Quamina Farrier (Guyanese journalist, playwright, actor, radio personality)
I met Basil Rodrigues, who passed away last week, over 35 years ago.
Our first meeting was in the Rupununi when he brought a group of his students to participate in Guyfesta (The Guyana Festival of the Creative Arts).
Over the decades, I enjoyed Basil's creative works. His many poems, songs and plays entertained thousands over the decades, all around Guyana, but more so, in the Rupununi and the North West. I've always kept in touch with my Friend Basil even though we were usually miles apart.
I loved sending him picture post cards from abroad. One was from Rome. When telephone service was established at Moruca, I would call him from time to time. Once, while I was in Ghana, I put through a phone call to Basil at Santa Rosa, Moruca. Unfortunately, he was not there at the time.
My Friend Basil Rodrigues and I have rubbed shoulders in Georgetown, the Rupununi and Moruca in Guyana, as well as in Miami and New York in the USA. He was that warm and intelligent individual who one always found a pleasure to be in company with. His contributions to Culture earned him the National Award of the Golden Arrow of Achievement (AA). He was a dedicated Catholic, and he was a honoured by Pope John Paul II for his work in the Church. He was also honoured by the Guyana Cultural Association of New York. My last meeting with my friend Basil was in Georgetown in February. I had to turn up twice, since on my first attempt, he was not in, so I returned the next evening. We chatted for a long time and one of the topics we discussed was the up-coming Festival of Saint John on June 24. I've not attended that Moruca Festival for many years and I promised my Friend Basil that I'll be there this year. Sadly, Basil will not be there in person. But I am sure that he'll he there in Spirit.
By Francis Quamina Farrier (Guyanese journalist, playwright, actor, radio personality)
I met Basil Rodrigues, who passed away last week, over 35 years ago.
Our first meeting was in the Rupununi when he brought a group of his students to participate in Guyfesta (The Guyana Festival of the Creative Arts).
Over the decades, I enjoyed Basil's creative works. His many poems, songs and plays entertained thousands over the decades, all around Guyana, but more so, in the Rupununi and the North West. I've always kept in touch with my Friend Basil even though we were usually miles apart.
I loved sending him picture post cards from abroad. One was from Rome. When telephone service was established at Moruca, I would call him from time to time. Once, while I was in Ghana, I put through a phone call to Basil at Santa Rosa, Moruca. Unfortunately, he was not there at the time.
My Friend Basil Rodrigues and I have rubbed shoulders in Georgetown, the Rupununi and Moruca in Guyana, as well as in Miami and New York in the USA. He was that warm and intelligent individual who one always found a pleasure to be in company with. His contributions to Culture earned him the National Award of the Golden Arrow of Achievement (AA). He was a dedicated Catholic, and he was a honoured by Pope John Paul II for his work in the Church. He was also honoured by the Guyana Cultural Association of New York. My last meeting with my friend Basil was in Georgetown in February. I had to turn up twice, since on my first attempt, he was not in, so I returned the next evening. We chatted for a long time and one of the topics we discussed was the up-coming Festival of Saint John on June 24. I've not attended that Moruca Festival for many years and I promised my Friend Basil that I'll be there this year. Sadly, Basil will not be there in person. But I am sure that he'll he there in Spirit.
Speaker extends National Assembly’s condolences on death of
‘Uncle Basil’ May 15, 2014
SPEAKER of the House, Raphael Trotman, extended the National Assembly’s condolences to the family and friends of the late Basil Cuthbert Rodrigues, who was fondly called ‘Uncle Basil’.The Moruca native, the brother of Minister of Foreign Affairs, Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, was laid to rest on Wednesday.
He married Delores and together they parented four children, two sons – Wally, who is a malarial microscopist at Aishalton; Curtis (attacked and killed by a tiger in the Marudi Mountains) and two daughters, Beverly and Kay.
As a teacher, Rodrigues used both music and sport to help build the students’ confidence and was so successful that his school Shea Primary had the best drama and cricket clubs for years. Although he was a school teacher, he was also given and accepted roles as counsellor and community leader.
In 1992, with the intention of retiring, Rodrigues was nevertheless invited to rejoin the teaching service and taught in the local Santa Rosa Primary School.
In recognition of his work in the Rupununi, Rodrigues was awarded a Medal of Service (MS) twice: in 1989 and 1994, by the Government of Guyana for his dedication towards the development of education, culture and community work. He was also awarded the Arrow of Achievement (AA) in 1998 for his teaching and musical endeavours.
In 2003, Rodrigues also received the Wordsworth McAndrew Award for his outstanding contribution in culture and in 2013 he was honoured by the Amerindian Affairs Ministry for long and dedicated service. He was also honoured by Pope John Paul II for his work in the Church in Guyana’s hinterland.
‘Uncle Basil’ was also the author of ‘An Arawak Biography’, which is available at the Walter Roth Museum and he also had a key role in the preservation and promotion of the Arawak culture through songs, poems, plays and dances.
Since his passing a series of tributes have lauded Rodrigues’ work and life over the years.
‘Uncle Basil’ May 15, 2014
SPEAKER of the House, Raphael Trotman, extended the National Assembly’s condolences to the family and friends of the late Basil Cuthbert Rodrigues, who was fondly called ‘Uncle Basil’.The Moruca native, the brother of Minister of Foreign Affairs, Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, was laid to rest on Wednesday.
He married Delores and together they parented four children, two sons – Wally, who is a malarial microscopist at Aishalton; Curtis (attacked and killed by a tiger in the Marudi Mountains) and two daughters, Beverly and Kay.
As a teacher, Rodrigues used both music and sport to help build the students’ confidence and was so successful that his school Shea Primary had the best drama and cricket clubs for years. Although he was a school teacher, he was also given and accepted roles as counsellor and community leader.
In 1992, with the intention of retiring, Rodrigues was nevertheless invited to rejoin the teaching service and taught in the local Santa Rosa Primary School.
In recognition of his work in the Rupununi, Rodrigues was awarded a Medal of Service (MS) twice: in 1989 and 1994, by the Government of Guyana for his dedication towards the development of education, culture and community work. He was also awarded the Arrow of Achievement (AA) in 1998 for his teaching and musical endeavours.
In 2003, Rodrigues also received the Wordsworth McAndrew Award for his outstanding contribution in culture and in 2013 he was honoured by the Amerindian Affairs Ministry for long and dedicated service. He was also honoured by Pope John Paul II for his work in the Church in Guyana’s hinterland.
‘Uncle Basil’ was also the author of ‘An Arawak Biography’, which is available at the Walter Roth Museum and he also had a key role in the preservation and promotion of the Arawak culture through songs, poems, plays and dances.
Since his passing a series of tributes have lauded Rodrigues’ work and life over the years.
Compiled by Jean Rodrigues from the
pages of our White Chapel on the Hill Facebook page and Guyana newspapers. There were many other messages of condolences posted on other
pages that have not been included.
Hopefully this cross-section of comments will give you a small taste of
how many people have been touched by Basil whether personally or by his work
and their support for his family.
Toronto, Canada
9th May, 2014
Toronto, Canada
9th May, 2014