Barbara Ellington, Lifestyle Editor
Left: Richard Forbes (centre), replies to toasts at his memorable party. He is joined by wife Marcia and son Delano. Right: A section of the large gathering of family and friends at Richard Forbes' 60th birthday bash. - PHOTOS BY WINSTON SILL/FREELANCE PHOTOGRAPHER
THEY CAME from far and near, family, relatives and colleagues - all of one accord, to shower Richard 'Pardy' Forbes with kudos, love, and good vibes on his 60th birthday celebration. The venue was prepared but anticipated showers did not rain on his parade. So the poolside guests at his Waterworks residence had a great time on Sunday, May 21.
With the soothing sounds of Floyd Folkes in the background, a screen projector displaying all the goings-on and the rambunctious Sunday Club members huddled close together, the stage was set for a fine time. Food was abundant and delicious and the well stocked bar was always busy. Two creatively decorated birthday cakes kept getting longing looks from the children in attendance.
'Sweet mouth' master of ceremonies attorney Tony Pearson instructed all to henceforth refer to Richard as 'Sir Pardy', and the toasts began.
The first came from Sir Pardy's long-time friend Hope Brown, but being absent, it was read by her sister.
PICTURE OF FRIENDSHIP
She painted a picture of friendship so deep and confidences so intimate shared, it could mean either a juicy best-seller or blackmail of the highest order. She spoke of his "... charm, willingness to fill in for co-workers, knowledge of all the island's watering holes, propensity to give jokes at which he laughed first, longest and loudest, and always covering for him as he embarked on his escapades.
Dr. Douglas McDonald represented the Sunday Club. He revealed a Sir Pardy who could go from peculiar requests for sugarless lychee ice cream to "a man undaunted in spirit despite being blind. His wit is undiminished; he's never bitter, complaining, angry or anxious, and is a shining example to us all."
Son Delano Forbes thanked his dad for making his life much easier wherever he went across Jamaica. And best friend Victor Green, who had made the trip from overseas, spoke of a 30-year relationship with his co-conspirator.
There was a videotaped message from brother Dr. Lincoln Forbes who thanked Sir Pardy for his love and example. And from Claude Forbes, another brother from overseas, came childhood reminiscences of getting his first job that taught him responsibility, commitment and dedication. "I had to hold the soap for Pardy while he showered," Claude revealed to much laughter.
TOASTS
Also making contributions were Cherry Kong of the Sunday Club, Elyardo Pusey, Pardy's boss from the customs department, friend Blossom O'Meally Nelson and wife Marcia Forbes, who thanked everyone for participating. Sir Pardy asked family and best friend to join him as he replied to toasts. He had special thanks for son Delano who was responsible for him being alive today. Delano had pulled him from the fire that destroyed his Phase 3 headquarters several years ago. "I am blessed with a wife who has stood by my side through it all."
Among the gathering were Winsome and Candy Green, Victor Hamilton, Sharon Lake, Donovan and Andrea Lewis, Audrey and Garth Hinchcliffe, Dr. and Mrs. Hugh Vaughan, Dr. Errol Morrison, Mr. and Mrs. Hugh Thompson, Simon Crosskill, Lennie Little-Whyte and Cheryl Rhyman, Dr. and Mrs. Audley Betton, Mark Shields and Kenya Linton, Pat Isaacs-Green, Don and Ayesha Creary, Bruce and Lorna Golding, Col. Trevor McMillan and Dr. Peaches McDonald, Madge, Tanny and Tanya Shirley, James Robertson, Malik and Sheena Azan, Cherry Kong, David McLaverty (Marcia's father), David Mould - in from Florida, Marva Bernard and husband Bernie and Brian St. Juste.
