In the 13+ years I’ve been writing about life in Abaco, I’ve shared a number of posts marking the loss of members of our community.
It’s never easy. But when we say goodbye to someone who has lived a long, full life, there’s at least some small comfort in being able to reflect on that journey.
Saying goodbye to someone so young, with his whole life ahead of him, is something entirely different. And yet, that’s what our community in Green Turtle Cay is facing right now.
The first time I remember seeing Kyron Curry was during a Junkanoo rush at the Island Roots Heritage Festival in 2013. He would have been two or three, a tiny boy with a miniature drum, the littlest drummer there.
At the following year’s festival, there he was again. This time in costume, officially part of the group. He marched with such pride.
By 2017, Kyron had grown, and so had his drum. I even shared a video of him that year practicing for the New Years Junkanoo Rush.
Outside of Junkanoo, Kyron was a sweet, gentle boy. I’d often encounter him and his friends while walking our dog, Wrigley, through the settlement. We’d stop to chat, and take silly photos, and I’d slip them treats to feed Wrigley.
Over the years, that little drummer grew into a young man who was clearly loved and respected by those around him.
Everyone I’ve spoken with has shared the same sentiments. He was kind, polite and steady in character. His flag football coach describes him as “fun, a good sport, and determined.”
And always, Junkanoo remained part of his life. Just this past New Year’s, he rushed with the cay’s Renaissance Junkanoo group.
Sadly, Kyron lost his life in a tragic boating accident on Friday, 12 June. He was just 15.
There are no adequate words for the heartbreak with which his family and friends are now living. I hope they can take some comfort in knowing the kind of young man he was, and how deeply he was cared for within this community.
Tom and I send our love and deepest condolences to Kyron’s family, his friends, and all who are grieving this loss.
A candlelight and prayer vigil will take place on Thursday, 18 June at 7:30pm at the basketball court on Green Turtle Cay.
Please keep Kyron’s family in your thoughts as they face the days ahead.
