Reflection of the life of Leila Albertha Sinclair-McFarlane

As the fifth child of a family of ten she was my sister, mentor and a friend. Who took time out to talk to me. I can't remember how we got so attached. she was always there for me. Leila liked to dress to match from head to toe, I can remember one time she made a yellow figured dress, bought a yellow umbrella and yellow pair of shoes and bag. That is how unique she was. She was my number one seamstress. I remember she made a peach check dress, it was my perfect fit. I wore it as if it was my uniform and when it got washed out and torn I patched it up and continued wearing it. It was on our mothers 50th birthday when my mother had her first attack of a stroke. Leila was at agriculture school, hearing the news Leila terminated her programme and returned home to help care for mum.

As time went by, Leila started nursing school at New Amsterdam hospital and her shopping centre was Danny's general store. I was given the opportunity to shop with her and even granted the privilege to shop for myself. Then, this companionship was broken when she went off to Jamaica. Many nights my pillow became a pond as I cried for her; as she was the only one who loved and cared for me.

As time went by she left Jamaica and went to Scotland and then England. Although we did not have modern things like telephones we communicated on a regular basis through letters and whenever she visited Guyana my package was sure. On her last visit to Guyana we went to fish, which she enjoyed and had plans to return and to have some more fun. Two days before her return to London she suggested that we visit all of the senior folks in the village. This we did not knowing this would be her last walk through the village of her birth.

When I learnt she was losing her memory I pledged that once she comes home I will take care of her but this did not work out. As I pen these lines I cant hold back the tears for a sister who was so dear to me. Sleep on Leila, gone but not forgotten.

Love Yolande

We have lost a beautiful soul but we have not lost the memories Leila Sinclair-McFarlane has given to all those that knew her. May her soul rest in peace.

-Cheryl and aunt Francis children

My memory of Leila McFarlane nee Sinclair goes back to childhood. She was a combination of Brains, Beauty and Bronze interwoven with skill. She had an eye for beauty and fine art. Elvis was her idol, so it was no surprise that she married a white dude.
Leila's love and commitment to family was extraordinary. I personally, benefited from her kindness even before I became family.
I would of liked for us to meet and to speak but illness and death did not allow.
I have lost one of my wonderful sister in laws but that's how life is. May God grant her soul eternal rest. My condolences to Len.

-Stanton Adams

A tribute to Leila Sinclair McFarlane

L-loving
E-enthusiastic
I- intelligent
L-loyal
A-adorable

Put them together, they tell me of the character of this noble woman, which is beyond measure.
She will be greatly missed my all.
May her soul rest in perfect peace and rise in glory.
Sleep on our beloved, sleep and take your rest until resurrection morning.
Goodbye, goodbye, goodbye

-Clarice Demattos

L- loving
E-enthusiastic
I-intentional
L-laudable
A-amicable

My sister Leila Albertha Sinclair-McFarlane was all of the above and more. My sister was unique. A very supportive and loyal friend.
I remembered the fun times she shared with us as children and the pretty dresses she made for us. She was resilient whenever life threw its challenges at her. - " a strong tower". She was persistent and consistent in whatever she did. You will be remembered my sister...I will miss you my sister.
Sleep in Jesus!

-Carol Adams 

Aunty, I miss you so much that words cannot be found to express my profound emptiness; our last conversation was our anticipation of lockdown being lifted and us sharing precious time together, entering your home.
I am happy we were able to have the opportunity to express our , love, anger, disappointment, and expectations.
Aunty, I am happy you were part of my early years foundation, you were always there for me; it’s so sad even to think that I am writing this message that you will never get to read. I know you are not ignoring me, you are just resting awaiting the trumpet of the Lord.
Aunty, for all the kind words and encouragement you gave to my family and I , I will always be so grateful; you were always at the other end of the phone. Our children are missing you and are trying to come to terms with your passing. Jenai was looking forward to you making her wedding dress; we know that dress would have been made with love, style and perfection. Shante pants , is missing you , she misses your calls, text and all the laughter, love and advice you give to her. Andre was really looking forward to assisting in caring for you. Aunty, your absence is felt so much; Otis said he has no reason to go to the north anymore. He made special trips just to see you. I am happy you had the opportunity to see Dellie and Op’s children; to laugh and play with them. We are blessed to have you as a aunty, mother and grandmother. Micheal and I will miss all the lovely things you did with us and for us. In life, you allowed me to express to you that you are the wind beneath my wings, forever and always.
Missing you.

-Sonia