Pride News Canada's Leader In African Canadian & Caribbean News, Views & Lifestyle
PICKERING, Ontario January 24, 2017 — Linda Berle Abrahams (nee Cumberbatch), 74, passed away, in the comfort of her home.
Following a period of illness, during which, for a while, she was cared for at home by husband of 48 years, Milton Abrahams, the long-time Pickering resident died, on Sunday, January 21, surrounded by her family.
Born on December 5, 1943 in Guyana, Linda was the beloved mother of Abena and Aneka, and cherished grandmother of Treshaun and Brandon.
An alumni of Tutorial High School in Georgetown, Guyana, Linda was an active member of the Toronto Guyanese community and a devoted member of St. Paul’s On-the-Hill Anglican Church in Pickering.
Linda Berle Abrahams will be sorely missed by family, relatives and friends.
Linda was one of the founding members of the Tutorial High Alumni Association-Toronto Chapter and served in many positions. At the time of her death she held the office of co-chairperson of the organisation’s Entertainment Sub-committee.
In a release, Michael Parris, President of the Association, said, “The Executive Committee and other members of the Toronto Chapter are deeply saddened at the death of Alumna Linda Abrahams (nee Cumberbatch) which took place last Sunday morning (January 21, 2018) at her home.”
He added: “Members will remember her as someone who was always giving of her time and resources towards the pursuit of the Chapter’s goals. The taste of the goodies which she baked for our various trips, and at meetings, will long linger on our taste buds.
“The youngsters who attend our Family Fun Day will recall her role in the staging of competitions, the distribution of gifts, and the provision of tasty hot dogs and burgers.”
Linda lived a full and rewarding life, devoted to her family and friends, and was a woman of strong faith, character and integrity. Her giving spirit and kindness were an inspiration to those around her and she will be remembered for her energy and charisma.
Close friend, Sharmon Carrington, President of the Central High School Alumni of Guyana (Canada — Toronto Chapter), remembers Linda’s “….unselfishness, kindness and generous spirit”, which she added, “were indeed an inspiration to those with whom she associated and she will be remembered for her sense of humour”.
Predeceased by her parents, Sybil and Laurie Cumberbatch, and two brothers Alvin and Telbert, Linda was also the sister of Laura, Joyce, Yvonne, Joan, Pamela, Ingrid and Colin.
Parris in his remarks concluded, aptly: “We hope that Linda’s example of selflessness would serve as an inspiration to those of us remaining, to help make life better for the students currently attending our alma mater. May she rest in peace.”
Visitation in her honour will take place at the McEachnie Funeral Home, 28 Old Kingston Road in Ajax, on Friday, January 26, from 2pm-4pm and 6pm-8pm. The contact number for the funeral home is 905 428-8488.
And, her Funeral Service will be held at St. Paul’s on the Hill Anglican Church, 882 Kingston Road in Pickering, on Saturday, January 27, at 10:30 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the Princess Margaret Hospital Foundation, the Durham Region Cancer Centre, or the Lake Ridge Health: Oshawa would be appreciated by the family.
Online condolences may be placed at www.mceachniefuneral.ca
