Dear Editor,
I write this letter to share a brief reflection on a friend and a comrade. I was shocked and in disbelief when news of Eton London’s passing reached me, a few days ago. I have known Eton for many years. We were both members of the PNCR youth arm (GYSM). When I served as National Secretary of the organization Eton served as Chairman of the Georgetown District of the GYSM. This responsibility he took very seriously. He was present at almost every group meeting in Georgetown and kept up with the activities of each group. Eton also served on the National Executive Committee of the organization, before he moved on to formalize his membership in the adult party group. There was never a dull moment in a GYSM group, once Eton was present. He had the unique ability to skillfully insert himself into a debate and reformulate the moot to suit his purpose. Eton London was an eloquent orator and a good communicator who used his talent to enrich the younger members of the GYSM. I recall Eton taking us to the Toastmasters’ Club, of which he was a member, to listen to himself and others deliver impromptu speeches. He thought of ways of which he could have helped in preparing the party’s youths for leadership. He was an active participant and leader at many of our leadership retreats. He served as a facilitator for various leadership workshops. Eton London was friendly, witty and kind. His willingness to serve the GYSM and the PNCR cannot be overstated and his contribution cannot go unnoticed. He was present at every activity, whether he was feeling well or not! Nothing stopped him. I last saw Eton on August 6, 2019. We were at the Founder Leader’s, LFS Burnham, death anniversary at the Botanical Gardens. He was in high spirits. We talked PNCR business and he shared some of his thoughts with me. It is usual for us to meet at such events and reflect on our role in the GYSM and party. His contribution on the floor, at both GYSM and party, congresses always left lasting impressions. He will be missed at party congresses and other events.
He had some health challenges but he never give up, he was a fighter. He never let those challenges hold him back. A few years ago I saw him and he said to me, “Lurlene you know this leg is showing off itself, he think he gon keep me back ah gon cut it tail off”. I pleaded with him that he should hold off and see if things will change, as he was already an amputee. He looked me straight in the face and said “so you begging fuh he nah, he getting disgusting he think I can’t do without he.” These are some of the light conversations he had about himself.
Eton London was a true comrade and friend, he made his contribution at all levels of the GYSM and the PNCR, whether directly or indirectly. He was a committed and dedicated member of the PNCR. He will forever be missed. He fought many battles, but this last one won out!
Sincere condolences to his family. May his soul rest in peace!
Yours faithfully,
Lurlene Nestor