The Anglican Diocese of The Bahamas and The Turks and Caicos Islands records with deep sadness and thanksgiving the passing of Archbishop Drexel Wellington Gomez, former Bishop of this Diocese and former Archbishop of the Church in the Province of the West Indies (CPWI).
Archbishop Gomez passed away peacefully today, Tuesday, 14th October, at the home of his son, Damien, surrounded by his family.
In a statement issued by the Diocesan Bishop, The Rt. Rev’d Laish Z. Boyd, Sr., the Bishop reflected on Archbishop Gomez’s long and faithful service to the Church and to his nation.
Bishop Boyd also noted Archbishop Gomez’s distinguished ministry and leadership within the Anglican Communion:
“Archbishop Gomez was ordained a deacon on 21st December, 1959, and a priest on 1st February, 1961. He was made Bishop of Barbados on 24th June, 1972, and Bishop of this Diocese on 1st September, 1996.”
“He became Archbishop of the Church in the Province of the West Indies on 20th October, 1998. He retired on 31st December, 2008, and remained active and involved in the Diocese and in St. Agnes Parish until his illness earlier this year.”
Bishop Boyd continued:
“His contribution spans the Diocese, the community of The Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos Islands, the Province of the West Indies, and the worldwide Anglican Communion.”
“He made great contributions in each of these areas. It would be fair to say that the impact of this Bahamian son from Bullocks Harbour, the Berry Islands, to the world stage has been nothing short of tremendous.”
The Bishop expressed sympathy on behalf of the entire Diocese:
“The Diocese offers love, heartfelt condolences, and assurance of prayers to his wife, Carroll, his children, Damien, Dennis, Dominic, and Debbie and their families, to his siblings and their families, to the family of St. Agnes Parish, N.P., and to all of the bereaved.”
“May he rest in peace.”
Archbishop Gomez’s legacy will be remembered for his visionary leadership, theological depth, and steadfast commitment to the growth of the Anglican Church throughout the Caribbean and beyond. His life and ministry stand as a testament to faith, service, and dedication to God’s people.
Funeral arrangements will be announced at a later date.