The funeral for ‘Teacher B' and ‘Teacher Bev', as she was fondly referred to by many, was held at the Sanctuary of Hope New Testament Church of God Church in her home town, Valley, Virgin Gorda.

The fallen teacher and community activist was laid to rest on family land overlooking the sea.

Among those in attendance and giving tribute were Minister for Natural Resources, Labour and Immigration, Honourable Vincent O. Wheatley (R9), her childhood friend and neighbour until her passing; and Junior Minister for Trade and Economic Development, Honourable Shereen D. Flax-Charles, her ‘God sister’.

Premier and Minister of Finance, Honourable Andrew A. Fahie (R1) sent a pre-recorded tribute, as did Minister for Education, Culture, Youth Affairs, Fisheries and Agriculture, Dr the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley (R7) and former Education Minister, Myron V. Walwyn.

‘Beryl was truly one of a kind’- Premier

Honourable Fahie said the news of Vanterpool’s “untimely death” caught everyone by surprise and brought with it an unimaginable dose of sadness.

“Beryl was truly one of a kind, an exceptional educator, vocal community leader, and a trusted friend who left an indelible mark on the lives of many.”

‘Solid rock’

The Premier described the late Vanterpool as a solid rock in the Virgin Gorda community who made exceptional contributions to the development of the educational system.

“Through her passion for educating our children, specifically our children in Virgin Gorda, Beryl always went above and beyond to make sure that her students had everything they needed.”

Viewing

Meanwhile, a viewing was held yesterday, September 4, 2020, at Davis Funeral Home on Tortola.

Among those who showed up to give their final respects were Dr the Honourable Wheatley; Minister for Transportation, Works and Utilities, Hon Kye M. Rymer (R5); Junior Minister for Tourism, Hon Sharie B. deCastro (AL) and Junior Minister for Trade and Economic Development, Honourable Shereen D. Flax-Charles.

A number of teachers, relatives and past and present students of BFEC were also in attendance.

The viewing and funeral service were livestreamed on the JTV Channel 55 Facebook page.