The late Anguillian Freedom Fighter, Oliver Gumbs (Shaff), is one of the most deserving persons to be accorded the honour of a National Funeral.
Historically, he was one of a number of brave Anguillians who travelled to St Kitts on the Rambler, a fishing boat owned by Revolutionary Leader, James Ronald Webster, and launched an armed attack on key targets in St Kitts. That attack was in the early hours of June 10, 1967, and was aimed at reinforcing and protecting the then less than a month-old Anguilla Revolution. His part in that event is recorded in Anguilla’s Battle For Freedom 1967-1969, co-authored by Colville Petty and Nat Hodge. His name, among others, is also engraved on a memorial stone which was recently erected at the Island Harbour Bay front.
Oliver Gumbs was honoured by the Anguilla Government in May 2007 when he was awarded a Medal of Honour and a Queen Certificate for his role in the Anguilla Revolution.
Mr Gumbs had been residing in St Thomas, US Virgin Islands, for many years. He died there on Sunday, March 8, 2015. In addition to other family members, he is survived by his Anguillian-born wife, Mrs. Doreth Gumbs, two daughters: Judith who resides in the United States; and Prudy Turnbull, who, with her mother (Doreth), work at the family-owned Turnbull Funeral Home in St Thomas where Oliver’s body is now being held.
Plans are being made to have his body flown to Anguilla for the National Funeral to be held reportedly on Sunday, March 22.
Meanwhile, the Minster of Home Affairs, in conjunction with the Executive Council, will be announcing the details of the National Funeral shortly.
The Anguillian offers its condolences to the family of the late Freedom Fighter, Mr Oliver Gumbs.
