Lady B enjoys an elephant ride at the Miami Metropolitan Zoo, with the family of Arnold Foote Sr. He described Lady B as a gentlewoman, who cared for the people and was full of love and affection.

She made history come alive. Jamaica has lost a genuine soul.

Importance of our Historical Icons

The passing of Lady B is a most significant moment in the history of Jamaica. At 97 years, she was perhaps the last touch with the turbulent period of the 1930s as Jamaica struggled to secure the rights of women and workers and to lay a political base for this nation. Though small in stature, she will be remembered as a significant figure in our historical landscape, serving alongside her beloved Sir Alexander Bustamante, National Hero.

It was a significant moment in my life when I met Lady B a few years ago. Soft and cuddly as a powder puff, she showed a level of humility that belied her importance. Seated at her feet, I quietly relived the history that was her life. Oh how busy she must have been, sweat on her brow, as the demands of the Jamaican workers took centre stage.

Was she there when the willowy Bustamante bared his chest and offered his life for his people? Did she cower in the midst of stone-throwing at fiery political meetings?

Was she frightened at his imprisonment during the 1939 General Strike? How did she feel when 'The Chief' became Jamaica's first premier, and she a lady of distinction?

genuine soul

Her long life seemed to lack the pomp and ceremony associated with the political territory, not asking for much, but she was one who gave much.

My short meeting with her was of tremendous value to me. She made history come alive. Jamaica has lost a genuine soul.

I was forced to reminisce at the contribution of our outstanding women last week on hearing of her death, for only a few years ago we lost the incomparable Ms Lou (2006), and the outstanding Ambassador Dr Lucille Mair (2009).

great memories

As I leafed through the pages of the book - The Jamaican Woman: A Celebration in which tribute was paid to some 200 women, I realised that several other women had also died. But their contributions have been recorded for posterity, and important life lessons have been placed before us.

Their photos conjured up memories of lives past and present. My private quiet moment served as a reality check of our own mortality, and just what we as individuals can do to bring significance to our lives and our country.

Joanne Simpson is an author and communications specialist. trailblazerink@yahoo.com