Melrose Agatha Mingo (nee McAndrew)

9th February 1941 – 15th October 2023

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Testimonials

Melrose Agatha Mingo

Sunrise Sunday 9 February 1941, Corentyne, Berbice, British Guiana (now Guyana). Sunset: Sunday 15 October 2023, Streatham, London, UK.

Mother, grand mother, sister, aunt, cousin, god mother, sister in law. She touched the hearts of many and left behind a legacy of love, kindness and powerful life lessons.

Born to a single mother Caroline Beatrice McAndrew (dob 8.8.1920 to 7.7.1993). Father James Ross.

Siblings from mother: Euli Ross (deceased); Conrad ‘Diesel’ Reynolds (21.4.1945); Walter ‘Stud’ McAndrew (20.4.1948); Lawrence ‘Percy’ McAndrew (2.2.1950); Theopulus ‘Patrick’ ‘Pato’ McAndrew (15.1.1952).

Siblings from father: Clarence Ross (28.9.1933).

A young single mother swept into the UK as part of the post migration of commonwealth citizens from the commonwealth colonies. Despite its location on the north coastline of South American mainland Guyana is the only non-island that is part of the Caribbean.

Mum migrated from Guyana in March 1965, as a legal secretary, inspired by family and friends already settled in the UK. The Ross’, Williams’, Bourne’s, Hintzen’s. Little did she realise that she was 2 months pregnant (with love interest Hubert Williams) when reaching England. She spent time with Norma and Wilton Bourne and children and also Cecil and Jean Ross. Both families became god parents to me, Adrian Richard McAndrew (27.10.1965).

Mum was employed as a legal secretary at the Greater London Council (GLC) but didn’t spend much time off work as Hubert’s mother, Audrey Williams (more lovingly known as Moms) already had a family brood she was caring for and added baby McAndrew to the clan.

That enabled mum to work and after a number of years eventually got herself a bedsit in The Chase, Clapham Common. In January 1971 mum returned home with her toddler, to Guyana for the first time, to see family and friends.

Roll on the 70s and found her next love interest, Cecil Holder (15.3.1939 – 2019). A move to Caithness Road, Mitcham and another child soon followed, a daughter Sharon Vanessa Holder (19.11).

On the 31st July 2019 I had the pleasure to travel to Jamaica for a wedding (Baynes family) along with Mr and Mrs Mingo but before then I would meet the Mingos on occasions.

Mel as Mr Mingo would call her was always there quiet and always ask are you ok or do you want a drink. After the 31st July myself and my daughter Christina was like daughter and grand-daughter of Mr and Mrs Mingo, from time to time I would go and do a little cleaning and ironing for them and it was always my pleasure. When Mr Mingo passed I could tell Mel was lonely but didn’t really show it much cause she would always say Adrian would call her and he’s coming down.

With saying all that Melrose would be deeply and sadly missed. I mourn with the family and friends for a good soul has now gone to sleep and Mr Mingo has gain back his official dance partner

Rest in peace Mel (let me know when u want the ironing done!)

Deanille
family friend

Good, I will start with a little humor Mel is wey me go put my suitcase when I come to London. How could you do this.

I have know Mel for 24. Yes, she’s has always been a caring and thoughtful. I remember when I was having my hip replacement back in 2011 it was her birthday, and I was ready to leave. Mel was there to accompany me to the hospital . I said , it’s your birthday She said so what?” I am coming with you,” and she stayed with me until I was pushed into theatre.

We had great times together, partying , traveling and of course drinking. The days and nights we have spent together were great. There is so much more to Mel than meets the eye. She had to know you well before she trusted you. I can honestly say I was a trusted friend.

I will always treasure our memories.

RIP my friend.

Alma
family friend

God’s Garden by Melissa Shreve

Tribute from Gleny niece Lancelyn Duesbury

I met Mr and Mrs Mingo about 33 years ago at the Guyanese dances I often went to house parties they used to have at their home and at mine my family and I have always found Mrs Mingo a graceful and lovely person

God looked around his garden
And found an empty place
He then looked down upon the earth
And saw your tired face
He put his arms around you
And lifted you to rest
With the help of his angels
They flew you to heavenly place
Gods garden must be beautiful
He always knew the best
He knew you was suffering
He knew you were in pain
He knew that you would never
Get well on earth again
He saw the road was getting tough
And the hill too hard to climb
He closed your wearily eyelids
And whispered
Peace be thine
It broke our hearts to lose you
But you didn’t go alone
For part of us went with you
The day god called you home

R.I.P. MRS MINGO

LOVE DEBBIE AND FAMILY

Debbie Sealey
Family friend

In Loving Memory of My Aunt-In-Law Melrose Mingo

We gather today to remember Aunt Melrose. She was a cherished member of our extended family, a friend who never failed to call even when she was hospitalised, and a true social butterfly.

Aunt Melrose was known for her unwavering love, warm spirit, and kindness. Her strength and resilience in the face of adversity were truly remarkable. She faced each day with grace and determination, never letting her illness define her.

She had a passion for life and loved to be wined and dined. Her vibrant social life was a testament to her infectious laughter and her ability to bring people together. She was a pleasure to be around, and thanks to her these gatherings were filled with joy and unforgettable moments.

Aunt Melrose leaves a legacy of love, inspiration, and the joy of living life to the fullest. Her memory will forever be a guiding light in our lives. Though she is no longer with us, her spirit lives on in our hearts.

Rest in peace, dear Aunt-in-law. You will be deeply missed, but your memory will forever be a source of comfort, inspiration, and a reminder to savour life’s pleasures.

With love and fond memories,

Barbara Davis
Niece-In-Law
Guyana

Losing a mum can be an overwhelming and painful experience. During such an emotional time it can be difficult to find the right words to express your love and admiration for her. Mothers are a great creation of god, who are loving, caring and have limitless courage. I’m very thankful to god for blessing me with my second mum, Mrs Mingo.

As we gather here today to honor her memory, let us remember the incredible woman she was and the legacy she leaves behind, and as we say our goodbyes, let us remember her not with tears but with smiles. Although you are gone, I am not alone and never shall forget the precious memories of the bond we shared together.

You will always be in my heart.

Miss you, love you. Rest in peace.

Elizabeth Matthews
mother of god daughter Rebecca Sattaur-Matthews