On Thursday, May 28, 2020 at 3:20pm The Bahamas lost a special man.
Mr. Bethel will be missed but never forgotten. He blazed a trail that many of us would be proud to have accomplished.
From humble beginnings in Cherokee in 1933, Patrick, or Pat, as he was known, became a successful entrepreneur after a very successful career in teaching. The title of his autobiography puts it succinctly: "From Teacher…. to Entrepreneur."
He was always concerned for others, providing financial support where he could as well as moral support with visits and phone calls.
Never losing his quest for learning and seeking answers he networked with numerous people from the heights of society to the common man and woman, including my mother and sisters in Abaco.
He would often write probing letters to the newspapers and released a few popular booklets: Abaco's Natural Environment… Let's Guard It; Growing Up in Cherokee 1935 – 1950; From Teacher….to Entrepreneur and a book of poetry.
The last phone call we shared he wasn't feeling too well but had rebounded just before having to be flown to hospital here in Nassau from his temporary home in Long Island, he thanked me for being his friend. Yes, he thanked me for being his friend. The honour was in fact mine, but it was never about Mr. Bethel. It was about his concern for others.
Mr. Bethel was a remarkable gentleman and I am proud to be able to say he was a friend.
Concluding his autobiography he said he would like to be remembered as a person who stood up for what he thought was right without fear of intimidation. I would say he accomplished that.
He also offered a bit of advice to "his offspring", but I would suggest it is great advice for us all:
- There are two qualities that will open most doors for you, i.e. RESPECT and APPRECIATION.
- Always be honest, stand up and speak out for what you think is right. You may not be popular, but you can be proud of yourself.
- LOVE is the most important concept of life. LOVE your family. Love your country. Love your God.
It was a real honour to know you and call you friend Mr. Bethel. You will be missed but never forgotten.
Hope you enjoy this video prepared by Mr. Bethel's family and posted with their kind permission:
From the Autobiography of Patrick J. Bethel:
Patrick J. Bethel of Cherokee Sound, Abaco, joined the teaching profession at the age of 17 and taught for over 30 years in four Family Island schools before he became principal of The Bahamas Teachers Colleege, retiring as Deputy Director of Education.
He retired young, moved to Marsh Harbour and went into business.
He is known as a social activist and maverick, always prepared to take a stand when he thinks an issue is right.
Now retired, he lives in Marsh Harbour with his wife, two sons and three grandchildren.
