Officers of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) taking their fallen colleague, Mrs Francia V. James-Liburd to her final resting place in November 7, 2017. Photo: VINO

Long serving police officer Francia James-Liburd died suddenly on Friday, October 6, 2017. Photo: Team of Reporters

Mrs Francia V. James-Liburd had served in the Royal Virgin Islands Force for some 27 years up to the time of her sudden death. Photo: VINO

Part of the funeral procession for Mrs Francia V. James-Liburd on November 7, 2017. Photo: VINO

The police marching band at the burial site for Mrs Francia V. James-Liburd. Photo: VINO

James-Liburd, 50, collapsed at her Fort Hill home while she was off duty on Friday night October 6, 2017. The police sergeant was rushed to Peebles Hospital and was pronounced dead.

The deceased, according to Police Commissioner Michael B. Matthews, was about to be promoted to the rank of Inspector.

However, she was given a sendoff befitting of an Inspector yesterday.

The viewing and funeral service were held at the Methodist Church in Sea Cows Bay, Tortola.

Tributes

In his tribute, Governor Augustus J. U. Jaspert said Mrs James-Liburd has left a void in the lives of many, as she was a woman committed to her family and maintained an active role in her career and serving the community.

“We are extremely grateful for her outstanding dedication to serve the British Virgin Islands.”

Premier and Minister of Finance Dr The Honourable D. Orlando Smith (AL) said Mrs James-Liburd had “an amazing courageous strength and persistence that came with a savy approach in the way she discharged her duties. She commanded a level of respect and authority that assisted her in enhancing the relationship between the police and the public, especially in the East End/Long Look community where she last served. No complaint was too big or too small as she tried her best to address the concerns of all.”

Commissioner Matthews said he only knew her from the time he came to the Virgin Islands but Mrs James-Liburd left an indelible mark on him.

“She was a no-nonsense, down to earth and professional officer. Without exception she has never one day left my presence without putting a smile on my face…she was always engaging and encouraging.”

Final achievement of Inspector

Mr Matthews also said he was proud of Mrs James-Liburd final achievement with the RVIPF- that of qualifying as inspector after successfully completing the police promotion process. Her recognised and distinctive service to the Force for the last 27 years speaks of her enduring loyalty to this organisation.”

Mrs James-Liburd, who is originally from Antigua but came to the Virgin Islands (VI) from childhood, enlisted in the RVIPF in the year 1990 and climbed through the ranks of the Force, working in Beat Patrol, Intelligence Unit, Major Crimes Unit, and the Task Force.

‘Inspector’ James-Liburd, who was born on September 10, 1967, was laid to rest at the Road Town Methodist Cemetery at Joe’s Hill.

Many Police Officers in full uniform turned up for the funeral service and burial and they, along with the police marching band, ignored the downpour to take the casket to the final resting place.

See link to related story:

http://www.virginislandsnewsonline.com/en/news/police-officer-sergeant-francia-james-liburd-suddenly-passes