From left: Effie and Seragh Lakasingh and Evelyn Sangster-Barnes.

It is the end of an era for a woman who has transcended political boundaries. But it is a time to reminisce for Effie and Seragh Lakasingh and Evelyn Sangster-Barnes, the three individuals who in life and death have been constantly at the side of Gladys Bustamante, fondly remembered as Lady B.

The Lakasinghs, her caregivers, and Sangster-Barnes, her god-daughter, who fondly remembered Lady B as Aunt G, sat with The Gleaner, leafing through worn family albums and sharing treasured memories, that spoke volumes of the love they shared over the years.

fun-loving

Evelyn Sangster-Barnes (right) makes a point about her relationship with Lady Bustamante as Seragh and Effie Lakasingh look on. - Photos by ian Allen/Staff Photographer

However, the Lady B they presented was not the union activist, or the political matriarch, but a woman who was carefree, self-confident, independent, fun-loving and someone who possessed a rare but great sense of humour.

She had no children of her own but had a lot of love to give to those around her. She had used this love to touch the lives of many.

Seragh met Lady B when he was only nine years old and remembers an excellent storyteller and caregiver who welcomed him, without much thought, to be a part of her life.

easy way with children

He said on visiting Retreat, St.Thomas, with his father, Sir Alexander Bustamante often put him on his shoulder as he conducted business around the community with his dad. From that time, he was drawn to Lady B's warmth and her naturally easy way with children.

When Effie later came into his life, she was also readily accepted, and Lady B, who planned their engagement party, was a part of the conspiracy to buy the engagement ring. She recalled, "Aunt G had very endearing ways and her qualities have bounced off on me."

Evelyn Sangster-Barnes (known affectionately as Lyn), came to know Lady B during the Tucker Avenue and Belincinta years. She was 15 when they met. From then, their relationship blossomed to become one of children with a mother who was also a dear friends.

quite the dressmaker

"She (Lady B) made my first wedding dress and she was there for me later as I went through divorce," said Sangster-Barnes. It was revealed that Lady B was quite the dressmaker and had a keen eye for fashion. Sangster-Barnes told The Gleaner that when she was a young teacher she was the envy of her co-workers because Lady B would make her matching dresses or skirts plus handbags she also designed from the same fabric that she wore to school every day.