The Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court (ECSC) Tribute to Mrs Celia Edwards, QC
The Hon. Chief Justice, Dame Janice M. Pereira, DBE, LL.D, Judicial Officers, Management and Staff of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court join the regional legal fraternity in mourning the death of Mrs Celia Clyne-Edwards, QC.
Mrs Edwards, QC was a true patriot who followed in the footsteps of her father as an exceptional legal talent. She was called to the Grenadian Bar in January of 1984 and the following year became head of the George E.D Clyne Law Firm. She dedicated her life thereafter to the practice of law. In 2008, she was elevated to the esteemed rank of Queen’s Counsel in recognition of her sterling contribution to the legal profession. Mrs Edwards QC was the first Grenadian female Island Scholar and the first Grenadian female to become Queen’s Counsel. She has been an inspiration for many female lawyers.
Mrs Edwards, QC, had a trailblazing career that spanned over 38 years. The esteemed Queen’s Counsel was passionate about the law and delighted in engaging in robust discussions about developing Caribbean jurisprudence. A great deal maker and problem solver, she was known for her tenacity and innovation inside and outside the courtroom.; In addition, she is especially remembered for her great sense of humour, her innovative coinage of words and her hearty and infectious laugh. She also gave of her time outside of the legal profession and was a former Chairman of the Public Service Board of Appeal, Former Chairman of the Land Development Control Authority, Former President of the Rotary Club of Grenada, and a member of the governing body of the St. Joseph’s Convent up until her untimely passing.
The tremendous public outpouring of sympathy, grief, and tributes on her passing is testament of the person she was eminently approachable, someone who spoke with conviction and listened with compassion. Anyone could stop her and engage her in conversation – and so many did! Mrs Edwards, QC, had the gift of always focusing on the strengths of the persons around her rather than on their weaknesses. Her loyalty to friends, devotion to family, respect for learning, and willingness to share are a few of her admirable qualities. The Grenada Bar Association and The OCES Bar Association are poorer for her passing, as she will be missed in immeasurable ways. Mrs Edwards, QC, leaves behind a legacy of hope, commitment to the legal fraternity and society that nurtured her, genuine love for people, and joy in caring. We will continue to reflect on her impact, focus on her generosity of spirit, and what she meant to so many persons within and outside the legal profession. It is indisputable that the legacy she has left behind will never be forgotten.
The ECSC recently invited Mrs Edward, QC to participate in The ECSC’s 55th Anniversary mini documentary, “55 in 5”, which she graciously accepted. The documentary, which is expected to debut in the coming weeks, featured Mrs Edwards, QC who provided one of the 5 perspectives through which the court’s 55-year journey was viewed. We are truly saddened that she did not get to see the finished product and the remarkable job that she did. However, we at the ECSC are comforted that her contribution to this documentary will help form a part of our treasure and will be an inspiration for all of our viewers.
The Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court extends heartfelt condolences to her children, other family members, friends and the staff at the Law Office of G.E.D Clyne on this profound loss. May she live on in our hearts and the hearts of all those who loved her and may her soul rest in eternal peace.
xxx