CLARENDON, Jamaica—The Clarendon Municipal Corporation reconvened from its recess in a somber mood on Thursday, mourning the passing of Councillor Marjorie McLeod McFarlane on September 1. McLeod McFarlane, remembered for her dedication and service, succumbed to a protracted battle with cancer, leaving a void in both the local political landscape and her community.
Councillors and political representatives from Jamaica’s major political parties expressed their shock and sorrow at her passing. Sharing heartfelt tributes, they fondly remembered her contributions and enduring spirit.
Leading the tributes was Councillor Scean Barnswell (People’s National Party, Hayes division), who reflected on the collective mourning across political lines. “Her death sent shockwaves of mourning not only to myself but to my colleagues on both sides of the political divide,” Barnswell stated. He emphasized McLeod McFarlane’s significant yet brief contributions to the municipal corporation. “On behalf of the People’s National Party and the councillors here, we want to express sincere condolences to her immediate family, and to her extended family of the Aenon Town division. May her soul rest in peace and light perpetual shine on her,” he added.
Councillor Hershell Brown (Jamaica Labour Party, Chapelton division) highlighted the fragility of life and the importance of leaving behind a positive legacy. “Although we are experiencing sadness, these times should remind us of the fragility of humanity,” he noted. Brown urged his colleagues to do as much good as they can during their lifetime, acknowledging McLeod McFarlane as a shining example. “Marjorie was one of those persons. It is extremely sad to see her go especially knowing how long she has been around in the political arena and just got a chance to serve her people. Let us also remember her family,” he continued.
Chief Executive Officer of the Clarendon Municipal Corporation, Rowhan Blake, extended the administration’s condolences. “Despite the fact that we did not know her for long, observing her behavior over the few months she has been here revealed that she cared deeply about her constituents,” Blake said. Citing Mother Theresa’s words, he affirmed that McLeod McFarlane found and fulfilled her mission in life. “One of her dreams was to sit in council and represent a division and she did,” Blake remarked.
Concluding the tributes, Chairman of the Clarendon Municipal Corporation, Joel Williams, reflected on McLeod McFarlane’s impactful but brief tenure. “There was no doubt that she had labored in that vineyard for a long time as a councillor caretaker for that division,” Williams shared. He acknowledged her deep commitment and the strong bond she forged with her constituents. “She has left a legacy, and as a council we will play our part to give support to her family,” Williams declared.
McLeod McFarlane’s legacy includes a historic victory in the recent Local Government Election, where she garnered 1,403 votes (51.69 per cent) defeating the PNP’s Delroy Dawson who received 1,311 votes (48.31 per cent). This win marked the first time a JLP representative had won that division, cementing her place in the annals of local political history.
Marjorie McLeod McFarlane’s dedication to her community and her exceptional service have left an indelible mark on Clarendon’s political and social landscape. The Clarendon Municipal Corporation extends its deepest condolences to her family and the entire Aenon Town division. May her legacy continue to inspire future generations.
