"To everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven: a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted." - Ecclesiastes 3:1-2
Obituary
Obituary for Mrs. Jethlyn Aletha Musgrove-Burrows
9th October, 1955 – 1st October, 2025
A Life of Purpose, Service, and Joy
Jethlyn Aletha Burrows, nee Musgrove, was a woman of grace, intellect, and unshakable faith whose presence left an imprint on every heart she encountered. She lived with conviction, spoke with kindness and courage, and found joy in every chapter of her journey. Known for her radiant smile, her infectious laughter, and her love for people, she was both a trailblazer and a nurturer, balancing professional excellence with an enduring devotion to family, faith, and community.
Born on the 9th of October, 1955, in Nassau, New Providence, to Cleamine Alexander Musgrove and Orelia Anthea “Annie” Musgrove, Jethlyn’s early years were marked by curiosity, determination, and a genuine love of learning. A proud graduate of The Bahamas Government High School Class of 1973, she excelled academically and socially, forming friendships during these formidable years that would last a lifetime.
Her love of language and culture led her to London, England, where she attended Queen Mary College at the University of London. There she earned her Bachelor of Arts degree with Honors in Spanish, with a minor in French, in 1978. She went on to complete a Postgraduate Certificate in Education at the University of London’s Institute of Education the following year. Returning home to The Bahamas, she began her professional life as a teacher of English, Spanish and French at C.H. Reeves Secondary School, while also instructing adult learners at the Bahamas Evening Institute and the Bahamas Hotel Training College. Her enthusiasm for teaching was boundless and her students often recalled how she made learning enjoyable, relevant, and alive. She would later earn a Master of Science in Education from the University of Miami in 1982, cementing her lifelong commitment to education and growth.
An Esteemed Legal Career and Mentor to Many
In 1984, Jethlyn embarked on a new path that would define her legacy. She began her articles of clerkship at the Nassau law firm of Bostwick and Bostwick Chambers, where she quickly distinguished herself through diligence, keen intellect, and meticulous attention to detail. In 1988, she was called to The Bahamas Bar and began a legal career that would span more than three decades and touch countless lives.
Jethlyn’s career was one of steady progression and trusted service. She worked at Bostwick and Bostwick Chambers, then joined the Ministry of Consumer Affairs as an Executive Officer, where she reviewed legislation and advocated for fairness in consumer protection. Her leadership soon took her to the Registrar General’s Department, first in Nassau and then to Freeport, Grand Bahama, where she established and headed the new office. She later stepped into the role of judge, where she served as a Stipendiary and Circuit Magistrate for Eight Mile Rock, then the city of Freeport, followed by an appointment as Deputy Registrar of the Supreme Court, and then as Vice President of the Bahamas Industrial Tribunal.
Throughout her judicial and administrative service, Jethlyn was known for her sharp reasoning, calm temperament, and unwavering sense of fairness. She carried out her duties with compassion and dignity, always seeing the people behind the cases. To her, justice was never only about law and procedure, but about understanding, empathy, and doing what was right.
After retiring from the judiciary in 2011, Jethlyn reentered private practice, first as a Partner at Meridian Law Chambers, and later as Managing Partner of her own firm, Musgrove Burrows Law Chambers, founded in 2016. Through her firm, she provided counsel in Employment Law, Family Law, Real Estate, Criminal, and Civil matters. She was a sought-after advisor, mentor, and teacher to many young lawyers across Grand Bahama and The Bahamas. Jethlyn believed deeply in preparing the next generation of attorneys to serve with integrity and humanity. She trained the junior lawyers thoroughly and expected excellence, but always with kindness and humor.
Jethlyn’s dedication to lifelong learning led her to earn a Diploma in International Arbitration from the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, London. She became a Fellow of the Institute in 2020 and remained a certified member until her passing. Few at her level of seniority would have undertaken such a demanding pursuit, but Jethlyn’s commitment to continued education reflected her belief in growth, excellence, and the power of knowledge to inspire others.
Champion of Women, Justice, and Service
Jethlyn’s commitment to service extended far beyond her own professional life. For more than thirty years, she was a dedicated and passionate member of the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), where she held numerous leadership positions throughout her distinguished tenure. She served as President of the Grand Bahama Chapter, Regional Vice President for North America and the Caribbean from 2011 to 2014, and later as International President from 2014 to 2017. She also served for many years as a Director on FIDA’s International Executive Board, offering steady guidance and mentorship to women lawyers across the globe. One of her proudest accomplishments came in 2017, when she hosted the organization’s 36th International Convention in Grand Bahama, welcoming hundreds of women attorneys from around the world in a celebration of unity, justice, and empowerment.
As a leader within FIDA, Jethlyn was known not only for her professionalism but for her warmth. She empowered all female attorneys, encouraging them to find their voice and to use their gifts in service of others. She believed deeply that the law could be a force for good and that lawyers had a duty to uplift, not just to argue. Many of those she mentored would go on to leadership roles, crediting her steady encouragement and her ability to bring wisdom and laughter even into the most serious discussions.
Jethlyn’s community service was both extensive and heartfelt. A Distinguished Toastmaster, she was a gifted speaker who inspired confidence in others and helped countless individuals overcome their fear of public speaking. Her powerful voice, both literally and figuratively, became a tool for empowerment, mentorship, and service. She believed that good communication could transform lives and communities, and she embodied that belief in every speech, every workshop, and every person she encouraged.
Some may argue that her greatest joy in community service, however, came through her decades of involvement with Pilot International. She was a proud and active member of the Pilot Club of Freeport, then from 2002 onward the Pilot Club of Lucaya, where she served in numerous leadership capacities and gave tirelessly of her time and talents. Her dedication extended beyond local service to the Bahamas District of Pilot International, where she rose through the ranks to become District Governor in 2009–2010. Through Pilot, Jethlyn championed initiatives that supported brain health, assisted caregivers, and brought comfort and dignity to those in need. Her fellow Pilots admired her energy, compassion, and sense of humor as she could turn any meeting into both a mission and a moment of joy.
Jethlyn also contributed meaningfully to civic and professional life through organizations such as the Commonwealth Magistrates’ and Judges Association, the Bahamas Law Students Association, and several other local service clubs. Her community involvement was never about recognition or titles. She was known for quietly helping others, often behind the scenes and without expectation of thanks. Whether she was helping a young person apply to college, guiding a family through a difficult legal matter, or simply offering a listening ear, Jethlyn gave freely and cheerfully. In every act of service, her approach was the same: lead with love, serve with purpose, and give expecting nothing in return. Her generosity was boundless, and her humility made it shine even brighter.
Faith and Church Life
Faith was the foundation on which Jethlyn built her life. For more than thirty-three years, she was a devoted member of the Pro-Cathedral of Christ the King in Freeport, which she joined when she, Gary, and their sons relocated from Nassau in 1992. Her service there was deep and multifaceted. She served faithfully as a Vestry member, elected by the people for twenty-eight consecutive years, including many years as Vestry Secretary, and was active in the Altar Guild for over thirty years, the Anglican Church Women for more than twenty, as well as on numerous church committees
Her dedication to her church family was unwavering. She worked diligently behind the scenes to ensure that things ran smoothly, yet she always found time for laughter and fellowship. Those who served alongside her recall her as organized, wise, and delightfully candid. She brought joy to her work for the church, often reminding others that service to God should be done with gladness, not grumbling.
To know Jethlyn was to know faith in God. Her faith was evident in everything she did and could be seen a mile away in her words, her actions, and her unshakable optimism. She lived her beliefs daily through kindness, patience, and compassion, embodying a powerful trust in God that guided every part of her life.
Family, Love, and Legacy
Above all else, family was at the heart of Jethlyn’s life. She was married to her beloved husband, Wilfred Herbert “Gary” Burrows, for thirty-nine years, who predeceased her just eight months ago. What began with her mistaking him for a tourist one evening on the dance floor of a Nassau nightclub in 1980 soon became the start of a lifelong love story. Their marriage was built on faith, laughter, and true partnership. Together they raised two sons, Wilfred Alexander and James Andrew, of whom they were both immensely proud.
Her love extended to her siblings, nieces, nephews, and her husband’s family, all of whom she embraced as her own. Jethlyn was the glue that bound everyone together, ensuring that family gatherings were filled with laughter and plenty of storytelling. She cherished her role as peacemaker, organizer, and confidante. She loved deeply and was loved in return.
Her home was a place of warmth and welcome. Whether for a family holiday, a friend in need, or an impromptu visit, her door was always open and her heart always ready to help. Those closest to Jethlyn knew that she often helped others quietly and without fanfare. Many acts of generosity were discovered only after the fact. That was her way; doing good because it was right, not because anyone was watching.
A Life That Still Inspires
Jethlyn was an amazing woman who lived fully and faithfully. Her laughter filled rooms, her counsel guided many, and her example continues to inspire. She was a devoted Christian, a loving wife and mother, a cherished sister and aunt, a trusted colleague, and a loyal friend. Her passing leaves a profound void, yet her spirit remains present in every life she touched. Her legacy of faith, service, excellence, and love will continue through her family, her students, her colleagues, and the many she uplifted along her journey.
On the afternoon of 1st October, Jethlyn was called home to be with the Lord. As we mourn and begin to navigate life without this remarkable woman, we take comfort in knowing that her legacy will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know her. She fought the good fight. She finished the race. She kept the faith.
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Written Tributes
I'm am still in shock and saddned with your passing GONE TOO SOON.
I will always cherish our friendship.
The wonderful times we spent travelling together as roommates to our Pilot conventions and our pleasant converersations.
I'm sure Gary and Mama Eva are so happy to see you. Continue to rest in peace my friend. You will always be in my thoughts.
You were more thana a colleague. You were a mentor, a leader, and a friend. You provided wisdom and guidance both in FIDA and in life. Your laughter, warmth and strength touched all who knew you. Your presence will be deeply missed and the light you brought to every space.
Until we meet again.
Sleep In peace, my sister. Your kindness and light shone across the world. My condolences to your wonderful sons, Alex and James, both of whom remind me so much of you.
Our last hoorah.......thank you for the memory.
During our breaks, we devoted time to studying together, quizzing each other, engaging in spirited discussions, and enjoying card and board games. Jethlyn was intelligent, well-mannered, outgoing, talkative, somewhat of a perfectionist, and always a delightful companion. Her family welcomed me warmly into their home, and her older siblings often acted as our chaperones during our youthful explorations of Nassau’s nightlife.
After completing Sixth Form, Jethlyn and Sheena travelled to England to further their education, while I relocated to Freeport to work. In the mid-1980s, when we both married Jethlyn graciously stood as one of my bridesmaids, and I had the pleasure of serving as her matron of honour.
Although there were periods when life took us in different directions and communication was less frequent, we always maintained our bond. Each time we reconnected, it felt as though no time had passed at all.
I am deeply grateful to God for the gift of Jethlyn’s loyal and enduring friendship. Her presence enriched my life, and she will be profoundly missed.
UNTIL WE MEET AGAIN
Those special memories of you
Will always bring a smile
If only I could have you back
For just a little while
Then we could sit and talk again
Just like we used to do
You always meant so very much
And always will do too
The fact that you’re no longer here
Will always cause me pain
But you’re forever in my heart
Until we meet again
- Author Unknown
I pray that the good Lord accepts her soul into his bosom.
My condolences to her two sons , Wilfred Alexander & James Andrew, who have lost both parents in a short space.
Adieu! Great Woman, my respects.
Dear Alex and Andrew,
It is incredibly difficult to come to terms with the loss of Jethlyn. I can only imagine the pain you must be feeling, especially following your Dad - Gary’s recent passing.
Jethlyn was a phenomenal woman, a beacon of light. Her warmth, laughter, and generosity touched lives across the globe. Across the FIDA Community worldwide and beyond, her absence is deeply felt, and the grief is profound, as her impact was extraordinary. She was deeply committed to everything she believed in and gave of herself fully. Her passion for justice and service was unmatched. Jethlyn lived a full and accomplished life, and her legacy will continue to inspire. Her work and spirit remain etched in the hearts of those she served and loved.
Even in sorrow, we hold onto hope. She lived a life of purpose and faith. As believers, therefore we find comfort in knowing that she now rests in eternal peace, welcomed home by God whom she served so faithfully.
You are in my prayers. May you find comfort and strength in the days ahead and may Jethlyn's soul rest in perfect peace and rise in glory.
With deepest sympathy.
This hurts. … the heart-wrenching demise of Jethlyn Aletha Musgrove-Burrows has indeed left me devastated, in total anguish and heavy of heart.
After the demise of my husband of 42 years, I had prayed to God that I never again experience such fiercely intense sorrow and such agonizing distress as I feel now... Yet once again, here I am …overcome with grief …tearful, void and totally numb.
Assured of our divine covenant of life more abundantly, I had stood steadfastly in faith with Jethlyn for perfected healing and health -just as resolutely as I did my husband. Yet…
God’s ways are indeed unfathomable! As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are His ways and thoughts higher than ours. (Isaiah 55:8-9)
Jethlyn was the ultimate consummate leader in every sense of the word. Her staunch commitment to women’s rights and interests -FIDA especially - was unparalleled. As FIDA World President and beyond, she ensured at all times that FIDA functions optimally, with no vacuum in any sphere of our global operations. In so doing, she it was who nurtured and propelled me on to my highest echelons of service in FIDA INTL -from Chairperson, FIDA INT’L Editorial Board to Country Vice President, FIDA USA to Regional Vice President, FIDA North America and currently Director, FIDA INT'L.
An exceptional, much-cherished confidante and friend, Jethlyn was one of the handful of people I could call for wise counsel at all times -even when in different time zones. Hers was one of the very few shoulders I could lean on for solace and comfort in times of need.
In the true nature of her heavenly Father (whose she was and whom she passionately served) Jethlyn epitomized AGAPE personified -the very same God-kind of love which drove Jesus Christ to the cross. In and out of seasons, sacrificially, she had become my God-sent, ever present help at each and every turn, both spiritually and physically -as she was to numerous others.
Albeit brokenhearted, I cannot but give GOD praise for Jethlyn’s exemplary life on earth. Hers was a ministry and legacy of a life totally and completely devoted to the Lordship of our Lord, JESUS CHRIST, as depicted in each and every one of her life endeavors.
In all, we remain consoled that Jethlyn has merely gone ahead of us…
I am confident…knowing without doubt, that we will certainly meet, never again to part, at the Marriage supper …at the gathering of the Saints -devoid of all earthly physical ailment, pain and distress.
After her sojourn here and life’s many battles, she rests now -peacefully in the loving embrace of her maker… her heavenly Father… who loves her more than we ever could.
Jethlyn Aletha Musgrove-Burrows cannot die…
She lives on eternally, in evergreen loving memory of her time with us and the love and laughter she brought into our lives.
It was back in 2016 when I received a scholarship from the FIDA organization to which she was a part of. She played an instrumental role in the scholarship process. Receiving the scholarship to attend UB meant the world to me. There were several other brilliant scholars who sought after that amazing opportunity, yet I was chosen. I am still grateful and humbled.
Having worked with Jethlyn more intimately, because we both served on our church’s Vestry Board, I quickly recognized her passion for service. Her commitment to scholastic excellence and championing the cause of youth success reminds me of the words by legendary South African activist, Nelson Mandela, who penned it best when he said, “What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is what difference we have made to the lives of others that will determine the significance of the life we lead.” This quote was fitting for Jethlyn and perfectly encapsulated her outlook of life. It affirms that life is not about merely existing but living purposefully and valuing others. May her legacy live on.
To my dear friend, role model, confidante, and most admirable Pilot sister. I never imagined you would be leaving us so soon. My heart is heavy yet filled with gratitude for the beautifulfriendship we shared. Oh, how I will miss your bright smile, your soft giggles, and that gentle, listening ear that was always ready for me.
You were a true Pilot at heart ... dedicated, passionate, and steadfast in your commitment to service. You were the one who introduced me to the Pilot family, and with your steady encouragement, I became an active member and eventually president of the Sunshine Pilot Club. Your enthusiasm for Pilot, both locally and internationally, was contagious. You spoke about it with such pride and love, and your example inspired so many of us to serve with joy and purpose.
But beyond your service, it was your spirit that touched me most. You had a way of making everyone feel special through your kind words, warm greetings, and genuine affection. You saw the good in others and made us see it in ourselves. You reminded me to look beyond my imperfections and to embrace who I am to love myself just as I am. That is a gift I will always carry with me.
I will deeply miss our breakfasts, lunches, and evening outings, whether in Grand Bahama or Nassau, filled with laughter, stories, and sisterhood. And I will never forget the surprise party you planned for me for me at your home back in 2003. You pulled it off perfectly! That was just who you were, thoughtful and full of love.
Jethlyn, you were a beautiful light in my life. Though you are no longer here with us, your warmth, kindness, and encouragement will remain in my heart forever. I will miss you dearly, my friend. May your gentle soul rest in perfect peace.
With love always,
Your friend,
There are some people whose light is so bright, it feels impossible to imagine the world without them in it.Jethlyn (My Ms.B.) was one of those rare souls—jubilant, bubbly, and full of life. To know her was to feel warmth. To be around her was to smile without
trying. She gave freely of herself—her kindness, her laughter, her time. She had a way of making you feel seen, known, and loved, even in the smallest moments. There was something about her presence that felt like sunshine after rain—always uplifting, always gentle.
Losing her feels unreal. It leaves a silence where laughter used to live. But even in this deep grief, there is something beautiful in remembering her. Because Jethlyn (My Ms.B.) didn’t just live—she shined. And her light stays with us, in every memory, every shared story, every quiet moment when we still hear her voice in our hearts.
She taught us, without trying, what it means to love fully, laugh freely, and live openly. And though she is no longer physically with us, she lives on in the love she gave, the joy she spread, and the lives she touched.
Though she is no longer here with us in body, her spirit lives on in the memories we shared and the love she left behind. I will cherish every moment we had — the laughter, the talks, the tears, and the unbreakable bond of friendship/sisterhood that time can never erase.
Thank you for being exactly who you were. Rest peacefully, Jethlyn, My Ms. B. You are missed beyond words, but your light is forever, I’ll carry it with me always.
Love Always your Porcelain Doll, AD, Adriann Nellie Michelle Gilbert, J.P.
#RestInPeace #JethlynBurrows #ForeverInOurHearts
Beyond the church walls, we shared in the mission of Pilot International, working to uplift our communities. Your spirit of service touched my life and many others, which will continue to inspire us.
Though your earthly journey has ended, your light and love remain. Your example will continue to guide us who were blessed to call you sister and friend.
May you rest in the eternal peace of our Lord and Savior.
Your Sister in Christ
She wasn’t just my aunt. She was my person.
My mentor, my confidante, my front-row cheerleader.
The one I called to update on all my drama—
What started as a five-minute chat always turned into hours.
Her loud, unmistakable squawk meant she was listening, reacting, and fully present.
She showed up for everything.
High school graduation. College graduation. My wedding.
Every career milestone—there she was, front and center.
She didn’t care who else was missing. She was there. Always.
She was my plus-one to business events,
My partner in crime at social functions,
And somehow—somehow—she even got me to join Pilots.
A social club! Me!
And because I loved her, and because she stayed on top of me,
I stuck it out for a whole year. Believe it or not.
People often thought she was my mother.
We were always seen together, and I didn’t mind.
I was proud to be associated with her.
I was always teased as the one who took after her—
And I wore that comparison like a badge of honor.
She didn’t just pour into me—she poured into my children.
Every Sunday, she took them to church with her.
If Christ the King had a children’s event, she made sure they were there.
She cheered on Jahzyra in the church speech competition—
And under her guidance, Jahzyra brought home the trophy.
She made sure Stancio never missed a single Sunday school.
She made faith a family affair.
Our conversations were endless and effortless.
We talked about everything and nothing, and it was always meaningful.
Just recently, I came back from a three-month trip abroad.
We spoke that night, both exhausted, and said we’d catch up tomorrow.
We had so much to share.
But tomorrow never came.
That unfinished conversation will stay with me.
But so will the thousands we did have.
Her wisdom, her laughter, her unwavering support—
They’re etched into my soul.
She taught me how to show up.
How to love fiercely.
How to be unapologetically present.
And though she’s no longer physically here,
Her spirit is front row in my life, forever.
I miss her deeply.
But I carry her with me—in every decision, every celebration,
Every long-winded phone call that starts with “just five minutes.”
Thank you, Auntie,
For being my anchor, my mirror, and my biggest fan.
I love you endlessly.
Mrs. Burrows and I became very close during the past few years. We supported each other in our journeys of grief - me losing both parents and my sister, and her losing her beloved husband.
We could sit and talk for hours, and it would be during this time that she turned into my mentor and personal cheerleader.
She was a lover of people, life, her friends and family, but most importantly her God and her two sons! To Alex and Andrew, I pray that the years and miles of memories that you've shared brings some form of comfort during this extremely difficult time. I pray for your strength in the days, weeks, months and years ahead. Rest in knowing that God is with you and that you have two angels smiling down on you both.
To say Mrs. Burrows will be missed is an understatement. I will miss our long talks, her vibrant spirit, encouraging words, smile and her beautiful red lipstick and fancy nails.
Rest well Mrs. Burrows!!
She was a source of strength, wisdom, and inspiration to so many of us, and her legacy within FIDA will remain forever cherished.
My heartfelt prayers are with her sons and her entire family during this difficult time.
May her soul rest in eternal peace and rise in glory.
With deepest sympathy,
Jumanah
Jethlyn made significant financial contribution and willingly served in various roles, including master of ceremonies at many functions. Her love for both her family and her ACW family was evident. She rarely missed a meeting. She loved life and lived it with enthusiasm, faith and joy.
Jethlyn was truly a remarkable woman, faithful, kind, and dedicated. Her presence will be greatly missed, but her legacy of love and service will continue to inspire us all.
Rest in peace, my sister.
Your cousin-Pastors Don & Emma Forbes
You became a part of my family when I was just a teenager, preparing to make a career choice. From day one, you encouraged me and celebrated every accomplishment. You were always so confident in my abilities as a nurse, and we shared many stimulating medical discussions over the years.
My favorite memories with you go back to the days after Hurricanes Jeanne and Frances, when my family and I had to move in with yours. Oh, what good times we had! Eating our favorite meal—noodles and tuna salad—watching Madea movies, and listening to you and Berlin debating law.
You loved my boys like your own. You became their biggest cheerleader, babysitter, and even did school pickups when needed (though sometimes Dehron had to remind you when your busy schedule ran a little late—he had your number memorized!).
At every family gathering, your boisterous laughter would fill the room and make everyone smile, because we all knew you were telling a juicy story or sharing a good joke. You were never considered an “in-law,” but rather an integral and inseparable part of the Burrows family.
This is such a sad occasion for us, but we are left with a treasure chest of wonderful memories. You were a champion for all—but most importantly, you were a child of God. You lived your faith every day in the way you treated others, with love, kindness, and grace.
Oh, Auntie Jets, how we will miss you! But we take comfort in knowing that you are healed, pain-free, and resting in the arms of your Lord and Saviour—awaiting that great getting-up morning.
May your beautiful soul rest in eternal peace.
This continued beyond the halls of school.
You could count on 'Bama' to make worthy contributions and valued wisdom to any conversation.
I am so grateful that I could call her a true-true friend. Rest well. You have labored well in your father's vineyard.
Sheryl Brennen Wood and family"
Jethlyn was knowledgeable, witty, and had the best giggle — a light that brightened every room she entered. She never hesitated to offer wise, heartfelt advice, always speaking with honesty and love.
We shared many joyous moments together in service through the Pilot Club, united by our commitment to community and friendship. Beyond that, she was not only a trusted legal advisor but a dear friend whose presence enriched my life.
When I saw the notice for blood, I was far away but fervently prayed for her healing. I wished her boys could have her for just a little while longer. Yet, God had other plans.
With love and adoration, I bid a tearful farewell, comforted only by the thought that Jethlyn now rests in the eternal peace and loving embrace of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ."
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