Nickeisha shakes
U my dearest uncle I feel truly saddened that u are no more with us.god saw you getting tired so he put his arms around you and whispered "come home "It broke our hearts to lose you, but you never went alone, for a part of us went with you,the day god took you home.death may have taken you away from us but it could never take away your memories that we share. We are never  ready to say goodbye forever even though we know it is a part of life. This day our hearts are heavy for losing someone so special, but as we mourn your death, we also celebrate your life. May your soul rest in peace uncle Edward

A beautiful memory dearer than gold of a Uncle whose worth can never be told.
There's a place in my heart,no one can fill.
I miss you Uncle Edward and I always will.

This is written by Veronica Williams.

Edward Shakes was a dear friend of mine. We knew each other for over forty years, We met at the Vocational! Development Institute where we did a Teaching Course. After graduation we did our internship at the Lacovia Training Centre in St. Elizabeth. After internship we kept in touch with each other and continued to be great friends. Elaine, his wife, became my friend also.
I am truly sad to know that my friend is gone. Although words cannot bring comfort in loosing such a friend, I take comfort knowing that one day we will see each other in the Afterlife.
Rest in peace,my friend, until then.

SEAFORD TOWN VOCATIONAL TRAINING CENTRE
REMEMBERING
EDWARD SHAKES
MANAGER (1978-1995)


Edward Shakes, Educator extraordinaire, Manager, Mentor, Instructor par excellence and astute leader, commenced his contribution to the youths of Western Jamaica in March 1978, with an indispensable imperative to give people the opportunity to become skilled workers and entrepreneurs.

Mr. Shakes, undaunted by challenges always persevered in his endeavours for the development of the St. Boniface Industrial Trade Training Centre, Seaford Town Vocational Training Centre and the Community of Seaford Town and its environs, by assisting with the diversification of the skills offerings, thus making them more relevant to societal needs.

The St. Boniface Industrial Trade Training Centre and Seaford Town Vocational Training Centre is blessed to have been graced by this phenomenal gentleman at its helm during the metamorphic periods of the institution.

The spirit of service, teamwork, leadership, commitment, integrity, respect an accountability were the pillows that gave impetus to this outstanding individual, thus overwhelmingly impacted the sterling success and achievements of the institution.

A Stalwarts in education he has been a tool of joy and inspiration to many staff and thousands of graduates of the St. Boniface Industrial Trade Training Centre and Seaford Town Vocational Training Centre, respectively. 

Mr. Shakes sleep on and take you rest as your memories will forever be etched in the minds of the Staff and Trainees of the St. Boniface Trade Training Centre/Seaford Town Vocational Training Centre.

Your legacy lives on.
                                                


Staff and Trainees

June 2021

Mr. Edward Shakes was indeed an exceptional educator and a consummate professional. During his tenure at the G. C. Foster College of Physical Education and Sport he led with vision and purpose, humility, and emotional intelligence.

Mr. Shakes unearth the strengths of his staff because he knows that these positive features would serve to develop an effective and efficient workforce. He taught me many life skills, but most importantly he taught me how to trust and being trustworthy, while recognizing and embracing each human being as a unique individual.

We are here to celebrate your life,
And the measure of its worth,
And every single life you touched,
While you were on this earth.

We wish to pay our last respects,
That is why we all are here,
To thank you for your friendship,
And all the memories we hold dear.

It has been privilege to have known you,
We were family, not just friends,
And we will carry you in spirit,
Until we meet up once again.

The G.C Foster College fraternity will be greatly saddened by the loss of this extraordinaire pioneer in education. His vision and determination to enhance the growth and development of this great institution is now evident by number of new programme implemented during his tenure as principal. He will be sorely missed. My sincerest condolences to his family at this time.

Ecclesiastes 3:1
To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose.
During our season together at G.C.Foster I learned much from Mr Shakes especially about process. It was a pleasure to know him and to learn from him. May your soul rest in peace . Hope to see you on His return

I first met Edward Shakes through a mutual friend, Veronica Williams, when they both worked at the LACOVIA Training Centre in the late seventies. I remember his quiet and unassuming nature. He was not a very talkative person but he imparted words of wisdom whenever he participated. His collea and students held him in high regard as a respected and compassionate individual.
Owing to migration, I never saw him for a number of decades but heard tidbits through the grapevine after he married my my childhood neighbour and friend, Elaine. He was a consummate family man who held his marriage in high esteem, cherishing his wife and children.
We met again three years ago at the funeral of his father in law and was pleasantly surprised when he called me by name and enquired about our mutual friend whom he had not seen for years. Through Elaine I have been able to pass on words of encouragement and get well wishes during the last months of his illness.
Elaine, my friend, be comforted by knowing that your life together was well spent and you and your children were treasures to him. Rejoice as you envision the time when you will be together again. Sleep well, Mr. Shakes. God's garden is more beautiful now.

Proverbs 24:3-5 (TBL) 'An enterprise is built by wise planning, becomes strong through common sense and profits wonderfully by keeping abreast of facts.
A wise man is mightier than a strong man and wisdom is mightier than strength.'
These words aptly describe Edward Shakes.
I remember Mr.Shakes in his role as Principal at G.C.Foster College of Physical Education and Sport. He was a man of wisdom who was strategic in his leadership approach and kept abreast with innovations in education.
I will always remember the words he quoted to me at the end of a challenging day ' Courage does not always roar. Sometimes courage is the little voice at the end of the day that says I'll try again tomorrow .' Wise words.
He is gone but not forgotten because he has left 'foot prints on the sand if time.' RIP.

I knew Edward Shakes, through his dear wife Elaine, my UTECH, B. Ed. batch mate of 1993 - 1996, long before I met him at the Vocational Training Development Institute in 1997. She never allowed a conversation without mentioning her darling Shakes. I soon learnt that Edward was not just an outstanding family man, but was also a great Director Principal. He demonstrated a remarkable passion for his work. He was a motivator and builder. As he strode energetically around the campus, he made frequent stops to converse with members of staff about their various jobs. To Mr. Shakes, every member of staff was a valuable part of his team. Without a doubt he has left his footprints on the sands of time. May his soul rest in peace and perpetua light shine upon him.
Elaine, my friend, remember him not because he has passed and so you are sad. Instead, remember him because he lived and has left a legacy that blesses family and the thousands of others who benefited from his selfless pursuits.
Linda Douglas, M. Ed., J.P.

Elaine, take courage in the God of all gods that Edward lived a good an decent life and loved you for all the days you spent together. He was an awesome coworker, boss, principal and friend. I will miss him for all he represents as a child of this universe and I will remember him for his kindness, fairness, boldness and gentleness.

Be encouraged and I will keep you in my prayers and ask the God of our peace to comfort you in this time and for all tomorrow. 

Finally, God will keep you strong as he knows and understands you more than anyone of us do. So hold into Him for your next steps into the tomorrow that Edward has left you to take alone with God.

Formerly HEART Trust/VTDI and JFLL.

Respect for ALL
Fairness
Decency
Calm

These are the words that flood my mind when I think of a man I met through my professional endeavours.

He hired me a the PR & Marketing Manager at the JFLL in 2008. His deep knowledge of and his passion for human development were immediately obvious.

Soft spoken and calm, his intensity of purpose were nonetheless quite palpable in every situation.

What however set him apart as a direct supervisor was his demonstrated respect for my role within his team. He asked many questions and always approved initiatives that aligned with the agency's strategic direction and for which recources could be made available.

Unlike most senior executives he never felt the need to belitte, to dominate or to make decisions based on his impressions.

He was both didactic and compassionate, deeply respectful and empowering.

As a human being - the longevity of his professional & personal relationships, the pride he took in his children's progress, the tender respectfulness in his tone every time he mentioned his beloved wife Elaine... are indelibly carved in my mind as standard of humanity to pursue.

Rest well brave, beautuful soul.

I was deeply saddened to hear of the untimely passing of my good friend Edward Shakes. We grew up in the same city, Manchester England, and he lived and reflected the standards and values inculcated into the children from the home of the industrial revolution. He was an engineer, a leader and a gentleman.

As an engineer he was well versed in how to build things, how to make them work, and how best to fix them when they were not working well. As a leader he led by example and never expected anybody to do anything that he was not prepared to do himself. He was prepared to take on and tackle the most difficult tasks, working with others to find a way through, recognising and appreciating the efforts of all, encouraging all to greater efforts and sharing the pleasures of success widely. As a gentle man he was softly spoken, respectful, giving courtesy to all and expecting the same in return. His integrity and directness allowed little escape to those who were not willing to commit to the common effort for improvement.

Manchester enjoyed a reputation for organisation out of the experience of the labour movement and the movement for women’s rights. The Caribbean community had a long history of organising themselves with a focus on self-help. From an early age Edward played his part, representing young people on the various committees and arguing on their behalf that greater attention needed to be given to the particular problems faced by a disenchanted youth that seemed to be often let down by the system. When he returned to Jamaica in the 1970s he carried with him a burning desire to offer his services towards the same end in a country that was still trying to work our what independence really meant. He applied the same understanding, skills and approaches to life, as a respectful problem solver and organiser. His progress was rapid as he moved successively through the experiences of establishing opportunities through formal trade training, strengthening and expanding adult education, and eventually as the principle of a College where so many aspirations of Jamaican young people were realised and translated into meaningful lifelong opportunities.

His quiet demeanour and unexpressive social life did not offer many options for frivolity, but his joy and pleasure at having the opportunity to become a family man was beyond comparison. The home he created with Ellaine, provided him with the secure base that enabled him to take on greater challenges. His great pride in his children’s successes was expressed in modest tones but was nevertheless abundant and very real.

We shall all miss him greatly as he has left a space in our lives that cannot be filled. However, the vivid memory of all that he gave to others makes us appreciate more fully the value of true friendship. Ellaine, our deepest sympathies to you and the children at the sorrow of your loss. Edward our thanks to you for your lifelong service and committment. May your soul rest in everlasting peach.

Alan, Helen, Josina and Akil Jackson.

Edward and I worked for some years at the then HEART Trust/NTA. He headed the Division responsible for the Vocational Training Centres and then the Vocational Training and Development Institute. He was considered to be one of the most knowledgeable persons in the field of technical and vocational education locally and internationally. Our working relationship continued when we were both at the Ministry of Justice and his work in contributing to the transformation of the Justice Training Institute was outstanding. We also worked together when he he served as Principal of GC Goster College. Shakes as we sometimes called him was passionate about education and training; was loved and well respected by all. He was a man of high integrity and believed in and demonstrated the tenets of good governance. There was little, if any, concern about areas for which he had responsibility. Foremost for him was the well-being of his staff. I have lost a very valued colleague who has contributed significantly to my own career development and a genuine friend. Even just before his passing, we communicated about a training related article in the media.
Condolences to his wife Elaine, children, grandchildren and other members of his family and relatives.
May his soul rest in peace. Another great soldier in the Education Sector is gone.

I met Mr Shakes many years ago, when he came to the Justice Training Institute as Director, Training and Academic Affairs. As my immediate supervisor, he displayed professionalism, wit , gentlemanly conduct and was just a kind and gracious person overall.

Our friendship remained even when we went to separate places of work and continued up to the time of his passing . I shall think pleasantly of him, as I recalled how I would tease him about his farming , evidence of the yam he would bring me from time to time.

May God's light pertually shine upon him. Those who have touched our lives in such a profound way are never forgotten.

Mr. Shakes was one of the most caring and loving person I knew, always there for others, cant believe he's gone....... Forever in our thoughts.

Marcella and family.

You – Edward Shakes
You stepped softly into our lives
Did all the things which made us
Believe and realize our strength
To change, to grow
And when you were finished
You moved to another place
To change, to grow.
And now the legacy
Lives on for us
To change, to grow
We loudly exhale our Thank You
- Tessicar McQuilkin Campbell

Re: Edward Shakes (former Director/Principal of the Vocational Training Development Institute - VTDI)

From: Delize Williams, current Director/Principal, VTDI

As a young professional at the Vocational Training Development Institute(VTDI), I was deeply influenced by Mr. Shakes. Unofficially, he was my mentor. So today, I mourn the loss of a dear friend.


Mr. Edward Shakes served the VTDI as Director/Principal at a pivotal point in the institute’s history, and he served with distinction. He transformed the ethos of the institution, as it navigated through initially unstable waters, and was responsible for the creation of many of the structures upon which the institution relies today. His drive, passion, and commitment to TVET and the growth of the VTDI, was very evident. The institution has benefited tremendously from his visionary leadership.

Although it has been several years since Mr. Shakes’ tenure at the VTDI ended, ironically he has never been forgotten. His years of distinguished service will forever be etched in our memory. His leadership, compassion, tenacity, humility, integrity, and respect for his team members, will always be remembered.

To his family and friends: The Vocational Training Development Institute shares your loss. Please accept our heartfelt sympathy and very sincere condolences.

My loving brother Edward and Uncle to Sandra and Jackie. Sadly missed and so proud to call you my brother, not forgetting Leon your friend.
Love from your Sister Emett, Leon and family.
Rest in peace my Brother

Micah 6:8 (KJV)  He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God.
We share our love and sincere condolence with the family of Mr. Edward Shakes. We have  lost a very reputable icon whose legacy and indelible mark will continue in the lives of many.
Many of us  past students were acquainted with Mr.Edward Shakes@ the Seaford Town Vocational Training Center in Westmoreland.
The students of  1988-1989 were honored with  Mr. Shakes presence who was the center manager. He directed the activities of staffs. Under his supervision , each skill department were benefited from his involvement.
Mr.Shakes was a visionere, a firm, dignified, and no-nonsense personality person. Very calm and approchable. He could be seen walking briskly on the premises or from the staff room to the cafeteria where we congregate, him giving brief announcements whenever the need arises.
He has touched many lives and made an impact on many  students in pursuit of a profitable trade or skill. He was very flexible, and diverse in his interactions with people.
May the family take comfort in the assurance that he had lived and served many in humanity to the excellence of his Maker.
Ecclesiastes 3:1-14 (KJV)  To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:
A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted;
With loving sentiments and God's Agape love keep you all closer as never before.
Elaine Coote-Dixon.

Just wanted to say condolences to the shakes family. I am a pass student at the st Boniface training center in Seaford town Westmoreland 87-88 Mr shakes was a no nonsense individual and got great results from his students He was a kind hearted person. we as students strived for excellence under his leadership and will for ever be greatful for his impartation. As the great myles Monroe puts it ,die empty .I believed principal shakes accomplished that. He died empty by giving of himself to humanity. Thank you for your contributions to mother earth sir,sleep in peace .

Edward was a very special person, always thinking of others and someone you could always rely on. He showed great warmth and kindness to my mum and dad and provided them with great support.  I will miss our regular banter about Manchester United. Edward will always be in our hearts and we will miss him greatly. Rest in peace, love from the Salmon Family xx

Our loving cousin Edward, you will be sadly missed. Fond memories will forever remain in our hearts. Rest in Peace. Deepest sympathy to all the family. Every blessing, from Vie, Trudy and Andre.

He was a very disciplined man a very good administrator. A man with a genuine heart towards the needs of others. He will be missed his contribution to the nation development will never be forgotten. Condolences to his family and friends.

Truly saddened by your passing. Condolences to the family and friends. Know that Mr. Shakes was well respected. He listened, trusted and gave leeway to be creative.
He was also understanding and had faith in people's qualifications, experience and abililites.
For these I thank him. May his soul rest in peace.

I am so saddened at the passing of Edward Shakes, my former principal at the VTDI. I have so much respect and admiration of this visionary and compassionate leader. He was passionate about TVET education and equally about the welfare of the people he led in this quest. His untimely passing has left a deep void in the hearts of the many he mentored, encouraged and who loved him. 

Tribute to Mr. Edward Shakes
  From Lamar Richards

It is with deep sadness to learn that my principal has passed away. he was one of 4 persons in the college who believed in me he always told me that I am a
talented young man I just need to let go of my past and the person I used to be and then I will see the big picture. thanks to Mr. Edard Shakes I am proud to say that I am a holder of a degree when I could not find the rest of my school free he was the one who clears it off for me. lol, I can remember when I did not have the money to pay for my living on the dorm so he calls me to the office and told me that look I am going to send you home because they keep coming to me to send you home but ofter a week just come back and go to our classes and make sure u pass all of them and tell no one what we have talked about, and when ur back do not walk where my office is when every u see me coming turn around and take the next part. he was one in a million love by a lot, he loved every one of his students. you will be miss so much and I will never forget what u had done for me and I hope I can do the same for some other student out there I will call it the EDWARD SHAKES scholarship rest up now sir and tell we meet again and thanks for being apart of my life I will never forget you        

I worked with Mr. Shakes at HEART-VTDI. He was such a strategic and charismatic leader who impacted my life in so many positive ways. He was warm, witty and one of the kindest persons that I know. He has left us too soon...

Rest in peace Mr. Shakes.

It will be the little things that I will remember about Mr. Shakes...the quiet moments, his smile and the way he pronounced my name ...He was very humble & caring & I loved that about him...

I never knew when he was upset; I guess he never really showed it...what I feel now is a quiet sadness.. but I will always remember the little memories that I believe are too beautiful to forget...

You were a sweet soul Mr. Shakes....
May your soul RIP & the Lord continue to be with your family at this time...

I admired Mr. Shakes’ skills as a great Administrator who stimulated and encouraged the best in his staff. He identified the areas of strength and provided challenging work that would help in building our competences.

Mr. Shakes was patient, respectful, generous and a gentleman. He will always be remembered. May his soul rest in peace.

    Innovative, compassionate, respected, and visionary—these words describe Principal Shakes (Mr. Cool).  In my first week at GC Foster College, Mr. Shakes dropped by my office twice to ensure I was comfortable and coping. It meant a lot to me to know that the principal would take time out of his busy schedule to say hello. He was always so positive, on message, organized, and gracious.
    His focus was always on the students and how we, as dedicated professionals, can work together to make a difference in their lives. With great sensitivity and authenticity, Mr. Shakes encouraged professional growth, career progression, varied experiences, and staff leadership. The provision of authentic opportunities for staff members to grow as education leaders was admirable. He encouraged and supported my involvement in many professional development initiatives including international and local conferences. 
   He prepared for challenges proactively rather than responding reactively, which set the tone for the entire college. The "nose flare" was hilarious and an artful technique of disapproval that Principal Shakes pulled off without an angry word! I am grateful that I had the experience of working with such a wonderful human being. His passing has left us sad but his influence lives on every day.

            Tribute to Mr. Edward Shakes, Former Principal
                     
                 From MR. Maurice Wilson, Principal


The G.C. Foster College community is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Mr. Edward Shakes our former Principal.  We send our sincere sympathies to his family and friends.

Mr. Edward Shakes was a visionary who was current with modern tertiary education practices. He brought to the institution a wealth of knowledge that he would have gained in terms of processes, competence-based operations, and upgrading of facilities. We could describe Mr. Shakes as the Principal who instituted the modernization of the infrastructure of the facility.

Let me once again express that the entire G.C. Foster College family mourns his passing and memorialize his great contribution to this institution. 

May his soul rest in peace, and light perpetually shine on him.