The PNM Government has again been plunged into mourning with yesterday’s death of long-standing PNM executive member Joycelyn Bodden.
Bodden, a leading figure in PNM’s Port-of-Spain North constituency, was also the party’s welfare officer on its national executive. She’s reported to have died at the Couva Hospital.
Health Minister Terrence Deyalsingh, in a social media statement, said love was Bodden’s mantra.
“You left your mark amongst men and women and have broken all of our hearts into pieces, we will always miss you—until we meet again,” he said.
Bodden’s death follows the demise of Energy Minister Franklin Khan on April 17 and PNMites in Tunapuna and other areas who died recently following various ailments.
Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley said, “I am very saddened by our loss of Joycelyn who was taken from us at this terrible time. Sharon and I and the PNM family are deeply saddened by her passing, but more so, because we were not able to comfort her during her period of distress.
“Please accept our family’s condolences and know that we shared her love with gratitude and are poorer now for her passing. We thank you all for sharing her with us and thank God for lending her to us. Now that she has gone to His arms, may she rest in perfect peace.”
Port-of-Spain North MP Stuart Young, whose WhatApp profile picture was a photo of himself and Bodden, added: “Farewell to you my dearest Joycie. I thank you for the time you gave me from 2014 to now. Your love, guidance and continuous support from the day you were asked to hold my hand in the party and world of politics.
“I am numb and left pondering again as the angels have taken you to be with your other loved ones. You will be sorely missed and another void is created. Thank you for all that you did for me and so many more. We love you and will miss you. RIP my dearest Joycie. May God bless your soul and give your family and friends the strength.”
It’s another blow for Young after the January death of PNM Port-of-Spain North stalwart Donald “Popee” Sturge.
In a statement, the party’s public relations officer Laurel Lezama-Lee Sing lauded Bodden, saying: “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is: What are you doing for others?”–Martin Luther King. Every day, Joycelyn Pamela Bodden willingly and humbly answered that burning question. Hers was a life of service, built upon the solid foundation that only love can provide.”
She added: “The PNM has endured a colossal loss with her passing. The simplest pleasures in life brought Joycelyn the greatest of joy. Her family, her friends, her PNM were her world. Her pleasant personality was contagious, and served as a lighthouse to show the way and to lead to a safe space for those in need.
“Joycelyn Bodden was passion and compassion personified. She officially joined the PNM on February 1, 1990, and diligently and faithfully served her party and Port-of-Spain North/ St Ann’s West constituency for the ensuing 31 years. For more than 20 years, Joycelyn served as the party’s welfare officer. Every year, she executed several annual signature events, including the children’s Christmas treat and the senior citizens luncheon and dance. She ensured thousands of hampers and bags of love and goodwill were distributed across T&T. She provided leadership to all constituency welfare officers and offered counsel, advice, a listening ear, and a shoulder to cry on for anyone.”
She added: “We pray that the love of God enfolds you and carries you during this very difficult time. Joycelyn Pamela Bodden, sparkling gem in the crown of the PNM may the angels welcome you into paradise! Thank you and farewell, good and faithful servant. Your excellent work and service here is complete.”