Joseph “Johnny” Tudor was eulogised yesterday by his close friend Wendell Callender as “a good man, a loving man, a man who made life enjoyable for many” despite “whatever imperfections he may have displayed from time to time”.
In an emotional delivery ending in tears, Callender shared with the capacity-filled chapel at Coral Ridge Memorial Gardens, his experience of working with the late former parliamentarian, supporter of the arts, airline professional and campaigner for the country’s disabled.
“Over the years, his illustrious professional and civic career has spanned involvement with the airline industry, the labour movement, the disabled community, cultural industry and national politics. His leadership in these areas has left an indelible mark,” Callender said.
“With Johnny, what you saw was what you got . . . . Daring as he was, Johnny Tudor was not afraid to venture where others feared to tread.”
Similar sentiments were reflected in the words of Dean of the Cathedral of St Michael and All Angels, Dr Jeffrey Gibson, as he delivered the sermon. He conducted the funeral service with assistance from rector of St Paul’s Church, Reverend Erma Ambrose.
The Tudor children – Simone, Jason, Dominique and Sharri – heaped praise on their late dad and thanked him for his indelible influence in and contributions to their lives. In a videotaped tribute, they spoke of a loving dad who “always lived his life to make people happy” and “voraciously” defended their endeavours, inspiring each one of them to strive to fulfil their potential. (GC)
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