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“A tribute to Steady” 

STEADROY "STEADY" JOSEPH

by 

Henderson Bass

A teammate and a friend

NOTE: Henderson Bass was unable to attend the funeral services of Steadroy "Steady" Joseph because of prior commitments overseas. But Bass however, was able to communicate his tribute to the family. Alas, the family found the comments appropriate and fitting enough to read it at the funeral on July 21, 2005, at the Ebenezer Methodist Church on St. Mary's Street, in St. John's, Antigua.

Steadroy "Steady" Joseph, sometimes called “Biscuit” other times referred to as "Deputy of Hyde Park," dependent in which group of friends you find yourself, was one of the true patriotic Antiguans, who took pride in defending his country of Birth. He was a man of good cricketing skills and knowledge, and in the world of Pan, a Double Second Player, par excellence.

He was also very knowledgeable, whether it is culture, politics, or history of Antigua, the Caribbean, or the wider world. His sound knowledge was the clear result of his knack for reading widely, whether it is newspaper,
magazines, or following the news on the electronic media. Added to this, he was very spiritually -minded, and loved people. One of Steady's notable traits was his fearless approach in dealing with people, from the priest in the pulpit to the politician to the man in the street as we say. Steady was always sure to let you know what he thought of you or your opinion, to your face. He never allowed you to have to develop any false impressions.

Steady was a very dedicated person to work and play alike, and never gave half measures to any cause. As a matter of fact, if he could not give 100%, he preferred to stay out.  Steady stood for good principles regardless of the consequences. History will record that he was a tough competitor, whether on the cricket field or in the Panorama. But he never allowed defeat to make him a negative loser. His attitude was, even though he may debate it hotly, you couldn’t win all of them.

In the Steelband world, he was recognized as one of the moving forces behind the birth of Supa Stars, and was a backbone member of Harmonites. And I am sure the guys at Halcyon will remember the many Carnivals when
we played in their rhythm section on the road. Steady enjoyed good fun, and the early days of the Dredgers Cricket Club where he was the first official Captain, and the many successful tours which we made, will always be remembered.

Steady loved his family, to which his dear wife and the children can attest, and his untimely death will affect them for a long time in many ways, while they try to cope with the big void which has been created, and
which they will find great difficulty filling. But God is in the midst of everything, and when these sad moments appear, in spite of our losses, in the end they still must eventually trust his grace and his everlasting power of easing there pains.

To the Caribseas family, in particular the Boss and Tyrone, to the cricket and steel band fraternities, I say "Keep faith alive". To Evelyn and the Children, Rosemarie his sister, and the wider biological family,
May the God of heaven give you the strength to cope with your time of bereavement. I must say that if it is one lasting monument that we can all build in memory of Steady, is for us to copy some of the good traits by which he lived. We will all miss the "Old Joepetro", as he sometimes called himself, and I join in wishing our dear departed friend "God's Speed and
May you find Eternal Rest". 

P.S.   I am missing this funeral ceremony with great discomfort, but circumstances dictate that I be out of Antigua at this time. However, My thoughts are with you all.

Henderson Bass

NOTE: Steadroy "Steady" Joseph was born on December 7, 2005 and died on July 6, 2005

Steadroy 'Steady' Joseph - a visionary

by

Ludwig (LMR) Reynolds

There have been many times that I have asked many different people for the definition of the word "friend." As numerous as those countless times, and as varied as the many people whom I asked, I have received just as many different responses.

Some have attempted to offer long and verbose definitions; some leaned towards philosophical dictums; yet, not one of their explanations has ever fully captured the deep feelings, which were stirred up in my relationship with Steadroy "Steady" Joseph.

Quiet, humble, honest and sincere, Steady epitomised the word, "friend."

Each and every person who came in contact with Steady drew the same conclusion. Whether they could or could not define the word "friend" to my satisfaction, all have declared that the word, friend, is the most appropriate description for the humanitarian individual they have had the honour and the privilege of knowing.

The beginning of my personal friendship with Steady dates back much too far for me to remember. It seems as though it has been from the beginning of time itself.

There are, however, some particular periods during our relationship that are seemingly carved in stone; ever to be construed as pinnacles of grand value, immeasurable importance, and guiding forces within my very own existence.

Inseparable friends from since childhood, our relationship further intensified because of Bishopgate Street.

Steady resided in the lower block of Bishopgate Street, while I began operating "LMR Signs' in the block above. As a result, we saw and interacted with each other more regularly. Our discussions, and sometimes too, our arguments, became more frequent. Yet, our love, respect and appreciation for our friendship further intensified. Our relationship magnified.

Steady was very studious and spent a lot of time increasing his knowledge on a wide variety of subjects.

Steady was never afraid to voice his opinions, which were usually founded in calculated analysis of the situations. He became highly appreciated for his opinions and his conclusions on most issues were eagerly sought by many of us.

Forthright and non-pretentious, Steady did not hesitate to share his views when asked; even at the cost of angering any of his associates. This attitude actually caused a relationship between him and another of our close friends to be severed.

Although Steady was aware of the possibility, he preferred to say what his conscience dictated rather than be a "yes man". And, as usual, after saying his piece, in his trademark fashion, Steady slapped his chest and declared, "first and foremost, I am an Antiguan. I want only what is best for my country."

Up to this day, the angered friend who did not share the same opinion as Steady has never again spoken to him. Although that has always hurt him, he felt satisfied that he did what he had to do.

It was because of his patriotism-fuelled determination that Steady has made such an impact on our society. He has been recognised and heralded for his contributions towards steelpan in this country.

From the beginnings of "B.P.L Super Stars," of which he was a founding member, all the way through to the supremacy and reign of "Harmonite's Steel Orchestra," Steady always gave his best.

His unselfish dedication, coupled with his attitude that Antigua & Barbuda deserved the best that he could offer, caused Steady to remain committed to the advancement of steelpan music in this nation.

It was as recent as last year that he was honoured by our nation's Department of Culture for his contributions made to the development of steelband. Antigua & Barbuda's Carnival Development Committee has also now slated him for a posthumous award. This is again for his dedication and contributions to the cultural artform known as steelpan music.

It is no secret that it was Steady who was the stimulus that caused me to erect two large billboards within the City of St. Johns. The messages on the billboard personified the sentiments of Steadroy "Steady" Joseph. The heading on these billboards is, "The Eight Blunders of the World," and reads as follows:

"¢ wealth without work

"¢ science without humanity

"¢ politics without principles

"¢ pleasure without consci-ence

"¢ commerce without morality

"¢ worship without sacrifice

"¢ rights without responsibilities

"¢ knowledge without character

And Steady, a God-fearing man, not only lived by these maxims, but he also encouraged as many people as he could to consider their values. The successes of his three children can be directly credited to his imparting of these principles to them.

Following his advice and guidance, all of his children have proceeded to succeed in their individual endeavours.

Then, there is that epoch when a few of us would gather at the Fort James beach each and every morning. This was during that period when Andy O"Marde, another long-time friend, was publishing some extremely stimulating articles in the Daily Observer newspaper.

These articles provoked some very intense and serious discussions among many in the nation. Our grouping spent a considerable amount of hours each day, locked in debate.

Some of the regulars like Andy and Coach Veron Edwards would first, go through their various exercise rituals; running and swimming the length of the beach. Others, Steady and myself included, held court until eventually, we all would end up in the water, some distance off the shore. Then, the discussions really became intense. Steady made some astounding predictions, most of which we have witnessed come to pass. Steady Joseph proved to be a visionary.

The thing that became quite noticeable was that he would not debate any issue unless he had done some homework previously. His approach was to research matters then offer intelligent perceptions.

His meticulous researching has produced what he fondly referred to as, "his archives." He compiled a collection of printed data of an enormous magnitude. I am hoping that his family will give some consideration to donating some of these materials to the national archives.

And, of course, there is our well known gathering each night, on the premises of PC's Book Revue, located on St. Mary's street. These informal meetings became so well respected that they attracted a wide cross-section of people from all walks of life. Almost every social commentator, every politician, every lawyer, every doctor, every conscious person, every teacher, educator, analyst, at some point and time, visited our sessions. We eventually became known as "the people's parliament."

Steady was not only an active, integral part of the people's parliament, highly regarded for his insight and awareness of social and current affairs, but too, he was a founding member.

All who knew him will miss him. His untimely death has created a void that will be impossible to fill.

Steady, a true friend, a man with social, moral and ethical values as pure as is humanly possible; a patriot, a pioneer, a motivator - never a duplicator, a social commentator, a sports enthusiast, an athlete, a lover of steelpan, lover of culture, a devoted family man who loved God and respected all other human beings, a credit to the human race, a national icon; Steady - a visionary.

Ludwig "LMR" Reynolds

Thursday July 21 2005

FROM THE NEWS ARCHIVES OF "ANTIGUA POLITICS"

Thursday July 7, 2005: A Bishopgate Street resident Steadroy “Steady” Joseph, died accidentally at his workplace at the St. John’s Deep Water Harbour. Joseph has been widely known in Antigua & Barbuda. A former student of the former St. John’s Boys School (Boy School), now TN Kirnon School and the Princess Margaret Secondary School (PMS) respectively. Some of the institutions and organisations in which Joseph has either been a member of or served charitably, were steelbands Hells Gate, Harmonites and Supa Stars. Cricket teams like Santos and Dredgers. Football teams like Santos and Super Stars and social groups like “The Peoples Parliament” and the Lock Up Movement Party (LUMP). Joseph for many years has been the chief scoreboard technician for the Antigua Cricket Association, at the Antigua Recreation Grounds (ARG). Joseph had always had a love for reading and could have been considered as one of few persons in the country, with one of the best collection of historical and sports information and memorabilia in the. He seldom backs down from a good debate and in a minority sense, was also a collaborator on some of the calypsos in the country. He has represented Antigua & Barbuda over the years, in many disciplines. Joseph, whom people has described, as a “point man” in the true sense of the word, was a lover of the beach. Fort James could be considered as a habitual sanctuary. Joseph has died at the age of 57, leaving behind his immediate and extended family. He had three children, where one of his twin sons, had recently entered the US Army. ><> 

Friday July 8, 2005: Accidental death has not been a first for the family of the late Steadroy “Steddi” Joseph. Reports are that many years ago, one of Joseph’s uncles, who were employed at the Mill Reef Club, allegedly succumbed to a tragedy at his workplace. Some co-workers said that Joseph’s uncle, who worked as a maintenance man, had already boarded the staff bus and was heading for home, when it was announced, that a problem had existed at the site and that he had to return to work. Reportedly, the elder Joseph resumed duties attending to an electrical fault. Eyewitnesses could not confirm, but it was alleged, that while the elder Joseph was on a height, attending to the problem, something had happened below, which caused him to lose his balance, leaving him no choice, but to hold on to wires which were hanging overhead. The wires were very hot and he never recovered. ><>

Monday July 11, 2005: The acting labour commissioner Hesketh Williams, said that the incident that claimed one life at the St. John’s Deep Water Harbour this week, could have been an avoidable one. Although not going into any details, Williams said that the forklift driver should have been guided. He said that employers should that safety for their employees, were at the utmost of levels. Williams also said that it was unprecedented to have 2 industrial accidents in a week and said further, that he could not recall, having that many in a single calendar year. He said that more should be done, to ensure that employees are protected. On Wednesday, a Caribseas employee Steadroy “Steady” Joseph, met his death, after an un-navigated forklift driver, rested a container on him accidentally. Investigations were ongoing on the said matter. ><>

CDC expresses sadness at 'Steady's passing

Tuesday July 12, 2005: - Antigua Sun story

The Carnival Development Committee (CDC) has extended heartfelt sympathy to the family of the late Steadroy "Steady" Joseph.

"On behalf of the minister of Carnival, the CDC and the staff of the Carnival Office we express our deepest sympathy to the family of the late Steadroy "Steady" Joseph," a press release stated.

"Joseph, who was popularly known as "Steady" was an ardent lover of our Carnival celebrations, and moreover a person who played a significant role in the development of steelband in Antigua. He was a founding member of the Harmonites and Supa Stars Steel Orchestra," the statement continued.

Carnival Co-ordinator Vaughn Walter on hearing of the tragic passing of "Steady" said he was extremely shocked and saddened at the news.

Walter went on to say that "Steady" was to be honoured on Panorama competition night by the Antigua Steelband Association for his contribution towards the development of pan.

He said Joseph would be greatly missed by all.

Wednesday July 13, 2005:

Saturday July 16, 2005:

 Two individuals who were now deceased and had lived in “the point” area, are to be buried next week Thursday. Ray Matthew, a LIAT employee, died recently in the United States. Reports are that Matthew had journeyed to the US to undergo an operation. But when doctors had opened up, they found more than what they had bargained for. It was also reported, that Matthew’s immediate relatives were contacted and appraised, who allegedly gave instructions for the doctors to proceed further. In the end, Matthew died on the operation table. Matthew was well known in Antigua as a past student of the St. Joseph’s Academy. He was very tall in height and was an ardent volleyball player. His academic skills had allowed him to pursue his ambition of becoming an engineer at LIAT (1974) Ltd. He was one of the founding chartered representatives of the Antigua & Barbuda Trade Union Congress, representing the LIAT Engineers & Aeronautics Association (LEAA), a trustee and a member of the general council. Matthew’s body was expected to leave Barnes Funeral Home next week Thursday afternoon, for the Holy Family Cathedral at Michael’s Mount and thence to the public cemetery. Word also has it, that the other individual Steadroy “Steady” Joseph, who had resided two blocks away from Matthew’s family home, will be buried on the same day leaving the same funeral home, but receiving funeral rites at a soon to be disclosed church in St. John’s. Joseph’s body was just released to his relatives, after a formal inquest. Joseph met his death, while he engaged in his employment activities at the St. John’s Port. His death was described as an industrial accident. ><>

Sunday July 17, 2005:

arena. The Calypso Monarch competition is slated to take place on July 31^st at Carnival city. ><> One of the persons who would be honoured during this year’s carnival festivities, would be buried 2 days before the activities begin. Steadroy “Steady” Joseph will be laid to rest at the St. John’s cemetery on Thursday, after receiving funeral rights at the Ebenezer Methodist Church in St. John’s. Joseph, who died as a result of an industrial accident at the Deep Water Harbour, was an ardent steel pan man, tutor and founder of a few of the country’s leading steel bands. He had also been associated with other activities in the country including cricket and football. Joseph died at the age of 59. ><>

Wednesday July 20, 2005:

“Steady” to get a pan procession funeral. ><>

Thursday July 21, 2005: The steel pan fraternity has lost another member. The versatile pannist Bruce “Foondoo” Bloodman passed away on Tuesday. Culture and carnival officials seemed to have been lost for words to describe his contribution. Bloodman was one of several persons who were down to receive awards from the pan community, when they would make an appearance on stage at Carnival City next week. ><> Another penman that passed away recently, was due to be buried today. Steadroy “Steady” Joseph was killed in an industrial accident at the Port of St John’s, while on the job. Joseph’s body will be available for viewing at the Barnes Funeral Parlour from midday today, for an hour and a half. From there, his body will be transported to the Ebenezer Methodist Church for a funeral service among mourners and thence to the public cemetery for burial. A source involved in the preparation of the funeral, has disclosed that Joseph’s body would be accompanied by live steel pan music along the entire routing of his journey to the church and the cemetery. Joseph has been described as a pan pioneer in the formation of some bands in the country and was also involved in cricket, football and politics. 2 memorial banners paying tribute to him has already been erected strategically in the point area, as well as on the building housing PC’s Book Revue in St. John’s, where members of “The Peoples Parliament” meet everyday except Sunday. He was also a member of the Parliament. His committed partner Evelyn James, their 3 children, a sister and other relatives have survived Joseph. ><> Another “Point Man” Ray Matthew, will be buried today. ><>

Friday July 22, 2005: Two men from “The Point” got rousing send-offs yesterday in two separate funerals. The two Steadroy “Steady” Joseph and Ray Matthew originally lived two blocks apart from each other. Hundreds turned out. (More to follow.) ><>