The Tribune

SHEILA Catherine O’Brien Bethell, formerly of Nassau, died in her sleep at her home in Dowling Park, Florida on October 16. She was 89.

Growing up in Nassau she was on the staff of the late Godfrey Higgs, founder of the Higgs and Johnson law firm, and was an active member of the Nassau Garden Club, winning many awards for her artistic displays.

In 2008, she was predeceased by her husband, Philip G D Bethell, a former member of the House of Assembly, her sister Alice O’Brien (1934), and her brother John Kenneth O’Brien (2013).

Mrs Bethell is survived by her six children, Wendy Moder of Cedaredge, Colorado, Barbara Maura of Nassau, Bahamas, Beverly Dolezal of Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, Philip R M Bethell of Deadman’s Cay, Long Island, and Alice Bethell and Maria Bonura of Live Oak, Florida.

Mrs Bethell is survived by 12 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren. Her only surviving sibling is her sister, Mary Alice Wassitsch, of Nassau.

A Memorial Service will be held at Sacred Heart Church, Shirley Street, on Friday, November 6, at 4pm.

Instead of flowers, donations may be made in Sheila Bethell’s memory to the Bahamas National Trust or to the charity of your choice.