Former President and stalwart of the Guyana Rugby Football Union (GRFU), Colonel (Ret’d) John Lewis was yesterday cremated at Memorial Gardens, Le Repentir.
Lewis died on April 7 from complications due to COVID-19, the pandemic grappling the globe.
The 77 year-old was Guyana’s sixth victim of the virus at the time of his passing almost three weeks ago.
Following his days as a national player, Lewis was a long standing member of the Guyana Rugby Football Union. Up until his passing, Lewis acted in the capacity of Match Secretary and Commissioner.
“He was the Match Secretary and Commissioner for life” said former President of the union, Noel Adonis following his passing. “John’s passing is a significant loss for the rugby community, we have lost a stalwart” said Adonis who added, “for the longest while he was the one preparing fixtures and making sure everything technical was in order
Lewis was a Civil Engineer by profession and retired Colonel of the Guyana People’s Militia and former President of the Hornets Club. The father of three was involved in the sport of rugby for almost six decades, captaining the West Indies team to England in 1971 as a guest of the Old Merchant Tailors.
Current president of the Guyana Rugby Football Union (GRFU), Ryan Dey told this publication that he will be titling an annual 7s tournament after Lewis in his honour.
Lewis was more than an ex-rugby player and official, he was a mentor, a friend, a father figure to many players and a major contributor to shaping the sport locally.
Most of the rugby players both past and present and coaches who wanted to attend the funeral service were unable to do so and provide the special guard of honour for Lewis as there was a handful of persons present in keeping with restrictions implemented by the government.
Those present were not allowed to see his remains as he was placed in a sealed coffin.
According to the latest figures, Guyana has recorded eight deaths and 74 confirmed positive cases of the virus. (Emmerson Campbell)
