Selvin Lloyd Thomas

"Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints."

- Psalm 116:15

Today, we convene with solemn hearts and a spirit of gratitude to commemorate the life and legacy of Selvin Thomas, a devoted and humble servant of God. While we lament his passing, we also find solace in the knowledge that he has relinquished his earthly responsibilities and now partakes in his eternal reward.

Selvin Thomas was born on July 13, 1950, at home in Jude's Hill, Watermount P.O. He was the eldest of thirteen siblings, and from his early years, responsibility, strength, and character followed him. Growing up, Selvin loved the river, catching fish, cooking, and enjoying the simple blessings of life. Those early days helped shape the steady, dependable man we came to know.

He attended Watermount All Age School and left home at a young age to begin learning the mason trade. He committed himself fully to his work, believing in doing things properly and honestly. Selvin was known as a man who took pride in his work, a builder not only of structures, but of integrity.

In 1994, Selvin migrated to the Cayman Islands, where he continued to grow and perfect his trade. While living in Cayman, the greatest construction in his life began, not with stone or cement, but with salvation. It was there that he accepted the Lord and became a faithful member of the United Pentecostal Church in Grand Cayman.

Selvin was a quiet Christian man, but his worship spoke loudly. When the Spirit moved, he worshiped freely, shouting some of the healthiest hallelujahs you'd ever hear. He may not have said much, but when he praised God, everyone knew his praise was real.

He married the love of his life, Petula Thomas, who preceded him in death. Their marriage was filled with love, devotion, and faith, and today we take comfort knowing they are reunited in glory.

Those who knew Selvin knew he was straightforward and factual about life, no pretense, no exaggeration. He loved to laugh and had a gentle humor all his own. One fond memory that always brings a smile is how he would proudly announce he was "cooking something nice," and no matter the introduction, it almost always turned out to be eggs. Simple, dependable, and honest, just like him.

Selvin leaves behind a legacy that will continue to grow through his family. He is survived by his children:

Derrick, Sherine, Cameika, Daniel, Joniel, Sadie, Ruthann, Donna, Neika, and Dianne;

his brothers and sisters, his grandchildren and great grandchildren, as well as many other relatives and friends whose lives were touched by his steady presence and quiet faith.

A Life That Speaks

The Bible reminds us:

"I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith."

- 2 Timothy 4:7

Selvin exemplified perseverance and steadfastness-demonstrated through diligent labor, unwavering responsibility, and deep devotion to both God and family. He maintained his faith not through ostentation, but through quiet constancy. His life serves as a testament that true strength and faithfulness are often manifested in humility and consistency, rather than in outward display.

And to those whose hearts are grieving today, God gives us this promise:

"The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit."

- Psalm 34:18

As we say goodbye, let us not say farewell in sorrow alone, but in hope-because we know Selvin has heard the words every believer longs to hear:

"Well done, thou good and faithful servant… enter into the joy of thy Lord."

- Matthew 25:23

Rest in peace, Brother Selvin. Your work is complete. Your worship continues. Your legacy lives on.

His family will receive friends on Saturday, February 13, 6-7 p.m., followed by a Homegoing Service at 7 p.m., at Pentecostal Tabernacle Apostolic Church, 249 Newfield Ave., Hartford, CT.

Services in Jamaica will be held at the Linstead Pentecostal Church, 10 a.m., with burial to follow in the Copper Family Plot, Cudjoes Hill, St. Catherine, Jamaica.