Tributes paid to the late Aurelia Burch
A long serving member of the Progressive Labour Party Mrs. D. Aurelia Burch has died.
A statement by the PLP mourning the passing of Mrs. Burch, who was a schoolteacher by profession, said that she joined the PLP during an era when Bermudians who joined the Party were vilified by the status quo.
However, the statement from PLP public relations officer Wentworth Christopher goes on to say that Mrs. Burch "was always a woman of principle, was never afraid to show the PLP flag and remained committed to the ideals of the Party until her death earlier this week. Mrs. Burch was indeed a foot soldier for the Progressive Labour Party."
Premier Ewart Brown said of the beloved party member: "Mrs. Burch was the quintessential lady in the PLP.
"She demonstrated unusual courage and commitment when she repeatedly ran for the party in a constituency where she didn't stand a chance of winning. Yet, she carried the PLP flag with pride and dignity.
"We will miss her and her complete understanding of functional unity."
Mrs. Burch who was described as a quiet spoken person, who commended respect, was known for attending most, if not all, of the events sponsored by the Progressive Labour Party. This is shown in the attendance records of the PLP's Central Committee.
Known as a party role model for many party members that came after her, Mrs. Burch displayed her true commitment to the party by standing as a candidate in Paget East for each general election beginning in 1972 and ending in 1989.
She was a faithful member of the St. Paul's A.M.E. Church for all of her life and until her passing she was a member of the church's Senior Choir.
Mrs. Burch retired from the Ministry of Education several years ago as principal of Francis Patton Primary School.
The statement said: "As an educator, Mrs. Burch was a source of knowledge and inspiration to many, some of whom are currently serving the public as politicians and in other leadership positions, including the civil service.
"While the PLP family will indeed miss the presence of Mrs. Burch, we will treasure the noble example of her life."
