Nadisha Hunter, Gleaner Writer

IN ANOTHER twenty-four hours, Hazel Bennett, widow of the late broadcast giant Wycliffe Samuel Bennett, will be collecting Jamaica's fourth-highest award, the Order of Jamaica (OJ), in recognition of her husband's achievements just after his final send-off at the Providence Methodist Church on Old Hope Road.

During yesterday's service, Prime Minister Bruce Golding declared that the level of work that Bennett has displayed in the preservation of the Jamaican culture and broadcasting should never go in vain.

"Bennett was a tremendous asset and a gift to all in the development of art and theatre," he said.

It is in this light that his achievements over the years will be acknowledged with an OJ at the awards ceremony on National Heroes Day.

Deserving recognition

"A person who has done so much for the country deserves to be recognised and Wycliffe should not go to his resting place under recognised," he said.

"It is sad that he will not be able to accept it, but his wife will do so."

Several persons from the media and art fraternities were among the hundreds of mourners who filled the church to pay their final respects.

While there was no fountain of tears for the stalwart, a stirring outpouring of tributes from some of Jamaica's dignitaries marked the extraordinary life he exhibited on Earth.

Most remembered him as one who gave selflessly towards the building of the groups in which he served.

Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture Olivia Grange advised that while persons mourn Bennett's loss, they should focus on celebrating his legacy.

"He was a fine director and producer who always demand the best while he gave of his best to produce some of Jamaica's best," she said, adding that he will be sadly missed as he has left an indelible mark on the lives of many.

Vice-chancellor emeritus of the University of the West Indies, Professor Rex Nettleford, described Bennett as the one-of-a kind individual who has transformed art and broadcasting into a lasting legacy.

He said at the time of Bennett's retirement he refused to congratulate him as he has never stopped working.

Several persons with whom Bennett had worked over the years, including Hopeton Dunn, Ruby Martin, Barbara Gloudon and Christopher Samuda, all spoke fondly of Bennett.

Bennett died on October 5 at the University Hospital of the West Indies after a period of illness.

nadisha.hunter@gleanerjm.com