The village of Capuchin and surrounding communities mourn the passing of Cultural Elder Olive Andre, who was laid to rest on Saturday.
Andre was bestowed the Cultural Elder award for 2014 during Heritage Day Celebrations in Capuchin in October last year.
She died on March 13, 2015.
‘Aunty Olive,’ as she was popularly known, was a skillful Bèlè dancer. She remembers dancing in Deckshan, an area situated at the top of the village where she grew up.
There were occasions when she would dance round dances and Bèlè well into the early hours of the morning.
She was an inspiration to many in the community and it was no surprise that two of her grand children, Clint and Mickael Matthew, grew up to be outstanding cultural enthusiast.
Clint, an avid cultural dancer and Mikael, one of Dominica’s most accomplished young accordionists.
“Aunty Olive” supported and encouraged their development and the community of Capuchin. She was also steeped in the worship aspect of the culture and her routine included church every Sunday.
She remained rooted in the traditions of her beloved community of Capuchin to the end.
my favorite person ever. grew me up since i was 6 months old. i will always love my grandma no matter what.thank you for growing me up and taking good care of me.may your soul rest in peace. i will remember you in my prayers. love you grandma
Rest in peace Grandma sleep on take your Rest.
A life well lived. Rest in peace “Aunty Olive”. There is no doubt that you will be greatly missed.
My sympathy to her family.
Aunty Olive, rest in eternal peace. You will be missed. An era is closing on the community of Capuchin as our elders are leaving us one by one.
Can someone tell me how old was the matriarch? Sounds like she maintained the spirit of culture in the community. She has left her legacy behind. My condolences to the family.
ONE LOVE
She was 84 yrs old.
Thank you, my sister.
Really lovely lady.
Am reminded of the dignity of life in Dominica for blacks folks……perhaps compared to the US, Brazil and elsewhere.
May your soul rest in peace, my condolences to your family friend