Trevor Berbick Laid To Rest

Former heavyweight champ buried with honors in Jamaica

Former heavyweight champion of the world Trevor Berbick was buried over the weekend with a pair of red boxing gloves and robe in the family plot at Norwich, Portland, Jamaica.

Family and friends from the island and abroad, along with local politicians and other distinguished guests, packed the Christ Church in Port Antonio on the northeast coast at a service commemorating the life and career of the one-time champ.

Leroy Brown of the Jamaica Boxing Board praised Berbick’s achievements and said, according to the Sunday Gleaner, that he had determination and discipline second to none He had a dream of building a boxing gym in Portland, for the youth of the various communities. Unfortunately he was robbed of that opportunity as a result of his brutal death. However, we at the Jamaica Boxing Board was determined to fulfill that dream and every attempt will be made to ensure that the gym is built.”

“It would be wonderful and fitting if Portland could once again defy the odds and produce another world champion, he added, this time from the Trevor Berbick Memorial Gym.”

Berbick’s sisters, Elaine and Beverly, fought back tears at the service honoring their brother, who they said was inspirational in their upbringing, offering advice and counseling amid his own problems.

“Our brother has created a positive impact, on the lives of not [only] us family members, but also those who have come to know him,” they said. “This family remains committed and loyal, and there is enough love left within us to fill this church.”

Reverend Georgia Jervis gave a stirring sermon where challenged mourners to “be our brother’s keeper.” She also said that “Jamaica needs healing and we can start it here.”