Three months have passed – we still miss her infectious laugh, her profound wisdom, her reliable presence no matter the circumstance, hour of the day or day of the week (she worked on Saturdays and Sundays when required without complaint), her humble presence, her sharp but insightful comments when difficulties arose and her “institutional” memory. On the departure of one of our resident Judges, Justice Adrian D. Saunders, he referred to her as the Court’s encyclopedia.
Mrs. Gumbs joined the Anguilla Public Service in 1978. She worked at the Judicial Department for over 35 years. In the latter years she held the post of Judicial Executive Assistant for over ten years. She was an employee with exceptional work ethic and highly energized when fulfilling her duties. She was always willing and able to fill in where necessary. She was not stingy with her knowledge and offered her guidance on the various procedures to her colleagues and counsel. She also served as the Court’s Mediation Coordinator for twelve years and since 1989 she has been appointed as a Justice of The Peace.
On Sunday 19th November 2017, at the premises of the Court House at 6:30 p.m. a retirement celebration was held in honour of Mrs. Gumbs. At this celebration she happily pleaded guilty to the offence of retiring as the Judicial Executive Assistant leaving the Judicial Department bereaved and heartbroken. Congratulatory remarks were given from Her Ladyship the Hon. Dame Janice Pereira, DBE, Chief Justice; Her Ladyship the Hon. Justice Vivian Taylor-Alexander; Ms. Ivenia Benjamin, Senior Magistrate and Head of Department and Counsel. She also received tokens of appreciation from the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court, the Judicial Department, the Anguilla Bar Association and various law firms.
A portion of remarks from Her Ladyship the Hon. Dame Janice Pereira, DBE, Chief Justice:
“I recalled when I came to Anguilla as the island’s resident judge in 2003, Knockie was one of the persons who came to welcome me. I recalled then a person with a cheery disposition and a seemingly casual disposition that belied her drive and effectiveness. It did not take me long to recognize that she was a “no nonsense” person on whom one could fully depend for ensuring the smoothness of the operations of the court. She did not take kindly to litigants or lawyers being tardy for court appearances and if necessary would place a call or two.”
On 26th November 2017, Mrs. Ira Patricia Gumbs proceeded on retirement. We wish her continued health and happiness as she enjoys her period of leisure. May God’s blessings continue to spring forth in her life and may He give her peace. We congratulate her on achieving this milestone.
– Contributed
