Canon Lamuel Been Laid to Rest in Grand Turk

Published by Communications Office on

On Wednesday, May 21st, 2025, Canon Lamuel Wellington Been was laid to rest following a solemn yet joy-filled Eucharistic celebration at St. Thomas Church in Grand Turk. Clergy, parishioners, and friends from across the Turks and Caicos Islands, The Bahamas, and abroad gathered to give thanks for his life and ministry.

The service, led by Bishop Laish Boyd and a host of concelebrating clergy, brought together voices in worship and thanksgiving. It was a remarkable moment of unity and respect. A special charter from Nassau brought 51 persons, including 25 Anglican clergy—an extraordinary show of support. Bishop Boyd commended the clergy for their effort, noting that funerals for clergy typically take place in New Providence. “It meant a great deal to the family and the Grand Turk community to see such a strong turnout,” he said.

At the funeral, the choir of St. Mary’s Pro-Cathedral sang a touching anthem penned by Mrs. Leathe Wilson, a beloved organist and longtime friend of Canon Been. The lyrics reflected his journey through the Church:

We thank God for Father Lamuel Been
Who answered to God’s call.
To serve in the sacred ministry
To proclaim God’s word to all.

He grew up as an altar boy
He served each Sunday morn,
He then became a Lay Reader
In the Parish of St. John’s.

Then he resided at Grand Turk
He served at St. Thomas, too
Then on to the sacred ministry
He was faithful, bold and true.

He then migrated to Nassau
To serve the people there
So many souls were blessed by him
In faith and constant prayer.

He was installed as Canon
And served at the Pro-Cathedral here
He was a faithful warrior
Of love and daily prayer.

As we reflect on Canon’s life
And the souls that he had won
He truly did his Father’s work
Thank God for a job “Well Done”.

Canon Been gave himself fully to the Church and its people, from his days as an altar server to his final years as Canon of the Cathedral Chapter. His ministry touched lives in both Grand Turk and Nassau. His was a life of quiet strength, deep faith, and unwavering care for the people he served.

As we say farewell to our brother, we give thanks to God for the gift of his life and witness. May Canon Lamuel Been rest in peace, and rise in glory.