Dame Lois’ family thanks the Island for its “generosity, care and concern” during their time of bereavement. In a statement issued through the Government Communications and Information office, the family of the late Dame Lois Browne Evans called the politician and lawyer “the rock of our family foundation” and said there was now a void among them with her death.

“She gave her all for Bermuda,” the family wrote. “Whether it was spending countless days in the courtroom winning judgments; travelling abroad to participate in the Constitutional Reform of 1968; or spending endless nights politically strategizing to orchestrate her party’s most historical triumph in 1998 — she had a focused and determined vision to achieving equality, justice and freedom for all, regardless of race, ethnicity, religion or colour.”

Dame Lois’ family added: “We wish to thank everyone for the outpouring of love and expressions of sympathy at the loss of mother, Dame Lois Browne Evans.

“We embrace the generosity, care and concern shown to our family during our time of bereavement. We know that all of Bermuda mourns with us.”

The statement concluded: “We feel your love; and we sincerely ask that in her memory, you will stand with us as we carry on her vision to make our Island home the greatest country for all Bermudians and an example for the world.”

The family invites residents to the Devonshire Recreation Club off Frog Lane in Devonshire West following the funeral for a “celebration of the life and legacy” of Dame Lois.