Astley R. S. Bygrave
September 12, 1943 - October 10, 2013

"October 25, 2013 Astley my beloved friend may you rest in peace.. No more pain no more suffering. Despite of my broken heart today, I celebrate your life, your fun,and loviing ways, your kind demeanor. Always ready to lend a helping hand, always there, without waiting for anything in return. You, Dorothy and I met in "1971" and our friendship flourished forever. We finished doing our growing up together and never let go of each other as we traveled through the trials and tribulations of life. Remember I was your Puerto Rican girlfirend with the big Spanish eyes. (smile). Sometimes years would go by without any contact but when we connected it was as if we spoke everyday for the past 42 years! Astley, my friend, again, may you rest in peace, until we meet again. "

"From The Powell Family - Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Bygrave Family at their time of grieving. I have known Ruddy since school days in New Broughton where we grew up together. The last time I had the pleasure of seeing Ruddy again was in Hollywood, Florida at my cousin's - Miriam Brooks 80th birthday. We spoke happily about our childhood and the good times that we shared! We shared stories about his grandparents, Mr & Mrs Shaw and their mango tree!! We also reminisced when we were boys and we would sling shot the birds. I will never forget Ruddy - he was truly a noble and kind gentleman - from Heton Powell, England"

"The Bygrave family would like to take this opportunity to thank all our friends and family for their sincere love and support during our time of loss. We could not have survived without your help. Again thanks "

"I was very priviledged to know Uncle Ruddy for such a short period of time. I had an instant connection with his contagious smile and calm personality. These will stay with me until we meet again. "

"Mr. Ruddy will never be forgotten. As my mom said below, his name was (and is) a household word in our home. I'll always remember the countless get-togethers at his house in Conroe, TX, the building projects that it seemed as though he was always working on, and even the big dogs he always had that I was scared of! The impact he had on the lives of my brothers and me is immeasurable, and it's something for which we're eternally grateful. Thank you Mr. Ruddy, and thank you Bygrave Family for all that you did, and for all that you will continue to do."

"Having gone to the Farewell service, I have to face the truth that Mr. Ruddy is not here in person with us anymore. As I shared at his service, the name Mr. Ruddy was a household word in our home. For 26 1/2 years we were blessed to have lived, laughed, loved, and fellowshipped with Mr. Ruddy, Mrs. Dorothy, Marc, MIchael and Bobette. Mr. Ruddy's absence is strongly felt in our surroundings. Our family has great admiration for the love shared among the Bygrave team. "Mr. Ruddy" Ruddy Bygrave is his name. Generosity is his fame. At work or in a game, his mannerism remains the same. A giant in integrity, he honors God's authority Doing what's right, regardless of cost, He's always a winner, he's never lost. He is a man for all seasons, as he jokingly teases Like the Comedian Gleason, Laughter with Mr. Ruddy never ceases. His motto "good, better ,best, Tells us he overcame life's test The baton he's since left For you and me to do the rest He is a giant of a friend Always from beginning to end His ambiance we can now send As to his causes, we must attend. Ruddy's legacy is a priceless gift, Which his family has blessed us with His infectious smile always give a lift That easily resolves any rift. Bygrave family, we thank our Lord God for you all."

"I was privalaged to make Mr. Rudy's aquaintance through Marlene Hurd. What I remember most about him is his energy and humour. He will be greatly missed, but I know that he is with his saviour."

"My dad was a extrodanary man,he taught me how to start something to finish it also and to do it right. My dad was the kind of person who'd help anyone and touched a lot of people he would meet . Loved my Mom ,Brother, and Sister devoted father and husband and friend as we remember my dad lets not focus on his death but his new life because he has lived his life way beyond people's expectation and done way more things anyone could emagine yes I am proud of my dad and love him so very much and can't wait to see him in heaven"

"I had the pleasure of meeting uncle ruddy at Vincent's wedding and I felt an instant connection, I did not know him for very long, but the little time I did get to know him was great. My heart felt sorry goes out to his wife and family. "

"Astley Bygrave my friend today i celebrate your life. The stories i could tell about you would take years but the memories would last a lifetime.The good Lord saw your struggles and called you home to rest. I will not mourn your passing but celebrate your life and with the good deeds you have done you will always be in our hearts. Rest until we meet again my friend and my mentor."

"Ruddy you are More than a brother you were to me, A pal, a counselor and a sparring pree In your laughter I found delight And never by your actions you start a fight Your sense of humor knew no bound I have to laugh when others thought I would frown Your kindness was a gift from above And all you do was motivated by love Our time together I will always treasure Since knowing you had only bought me pleasure. You were kind but never weak You were strong but yet so meek In your words were wisdoms found To keep our feet firmly planted on the ground When challenged, You never refused a dare Even though I know it gave you a scare At the end you were brave, Thinking nothing of death or grave. You were majestic in your life A friend and a lover to your wife. A life well lived cannot be forgotten Sleep well my friend, for truly of God you were begotten. "

"The Bygrave family has been an great influence to my 2 brothers and I as we were raised in a single parent home. We were fortunate that my mother surrounded us with great role models along the way to aid in our continued development - and Mr. RUDDY was very instrumental in that process. Like I read from a previous post on this site -what we gained from Mr. Ruddy was more about how he carried himself versus what he said regarding himself. He was definitely a man of action, diligence, commitment, and was selfless in all his way. Without question I am a better person because I have been exposed to the "person" of one Astley R. S. Bygrave. I am blessed to have know you "

"Ruddy was a fun loving person.You could never be around him with a sad face.Everytime I visited him he greeted me with a smile, He was just fun to be around. You will always be in my heart.Ruddy you are just one step ahead of me.We will meet again never more to part. Rest in peace."

" We had the pleasure of knowing Ruddy for the last few years and his life was a true inspiration to us. It saddens our hearts greatly to know that this world has lost a true pioneer of love, peace and happiness which he exuded from his very presence. His visits to our home was always a distinct pleasure and when we needed any assistance he was always there for us. Words cannot explain how much we truly miss him and we are assured that he is with God looking down at us and being protective as is his dominant trait. We love you Ruddy and will always remember you. You will live in our hearts forever."

"One of the main things that I can say about Mr. Ruddy is that he was there when he said he would be there; and always outdid everyone's expectations. I remember when he said he was bringing over a pool table and just happened to have our family dog with him that day, and she became ours. I bet anyone can walk around their house and if "Ruddy" was there, his work is there as well. The best way to honor him, in my opinion, is to know SOMETHING about tools, anything will do. That was his passion and he showed it in everything. Also, someone will have to be the guy that always has a crisp $20.00 and some hard candies to give to the kids. I hope to be that person as well as a person that people can depend on at anytime for any reason. For our family, he finished where he started...helping to guide a young person in the way that he SHOULD be going. Great guy (and I can say that now that I am an adult) who will be missed by all. "

"Uncle Ruddy was always a great guy.I always looked forward to his visits and all the times we spent together.I hope he is having fun in Heaven."

"We are Ruddy's cousins, our late mother was Ruddy's Aunt Winnie. Our father Carl remembers Ruddy as a baby in Jamaica. We were so sorry to hear of Ruddy's passing. We will always remember him with a smile on his face. Love and best wishes to all the family. RIP Ruddy. Janis, Karlene & Clive Jones"

"Ecclesiastes 3:1 tells us "For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven: A time to be born and a time to die". this is ordained for man and although it is painful for us to lose him let us all revel in the life that Ruddy shared with us. Words cannot really express how he impacted each life left behind. He was a genuine friend. Brother. Father etc. He spent his life as a man on a mission. His calling was to make his world a much better place by the things he did, by his interaction with folks in his life, by just being a friend. This is the mark of a great man. As we all reflect on the many qualities that drew us to him,may his memory forever abide in our hearts and may we all try to emulate him in well doing. Dor, I encourage you to remain strong, keeping God in your life and he will see you thru this sad occasion. Blessings."

"Ruddy, it was a honor to have known you. I remember your infectious laughter as we sat in your radio room giving jokes at your home in Queens. RIP my friend."

"Ruddy, When i think of you what comes to mind is a person who is quite, gentle, kind and generous. Theses are only some of the qualities that you possessed. I admired you the older cousin as i was growing up in Jamaica, we shared fond memories of our youth. When I migrated to the States you and Dorothy welcomed me into your loving home. I learned a lot from you . I love the way you love and loved big. You loved family, friend, children and puppies namely JUMBO your beloved bull dog. After staying with you for a few years, I decided to venture out on my own. When i got married having you as my best man was very special, this memory i will always cherish. i will never forget the wonderful time we shared,especially when we were working on the Mercury Cougar in the garage.You always like that car with the checker top, when it caught fire, you went out and bought another Cougar. We will always love and miss you. Rest in peace cousin."

"Ruddy, The only way to have a friend is to be one. Our friendship is a sacred bond and it provided a safe haven in which to listen, share and rest in complete trust. I have a number of acquaintances and friends but my friend Ruddy added such meaning to everyday life and special occasions. My friend was a caring person, we could see each other's shortcomings and strengths and help each other work on both. Truly God's love in action. With my friend Ruddy we could laugh, cry and be silly, get serious and reveal whatever is in our hearts. I treasure my friend. I treasure the joy and stability we bring to one another as we share mutual love and respect. RIP my friend. "

"Ruddy, My elder brother, kind,gentle but with what we would say in Jamaica a man with a 'Lion Heart'. His love for life family and friends cannot be simply put into words but it is what you felt while you were around him. Generous of spirit and gave before it was even asked of him. He gave his time energy and his all to whomever required of him. I remember receiving a chair from him because he was concerned about the job I was doing and how it affected me. His knowledge in the construction business allowed to give expression in his creativity and to aid many persons when major jobs were to be done. my brother you gave to life not in small measure but large. You lived life to its fullest and for the relatively short time that we were together you certainly taught me a lot in terms of generosity and how to just LIVE. I give thanks for your time with us and may your life continue to be an example to all of us. I give thanks for Dor who has been a tower of strength in every aspect of your life. Thank God for you From all your siblings Marlene Shim, Audrey Lecky (Jamaica), Dawn Stephenson (Florida) Courtenay (Toronto) Aunt Pearl Williams,Moms Lucille Bygrave"

"Uncle Ruddy, my favorite uncle. I didn't have that much time with you, but three times in particular. I first met you when I was 9 years of age and then at 19 when I visited Texas with the family and six years ago when I visited Jamaica with Mom. That was one of the best vacations I've ever spent. I was greatly impacted by your life, in those brief moments. You were the perfect mix - so kind with a great sense of humor, but also a man who I respected at the same time. I'll miss your smile and laugh. I wanted very much to visit Jamaica this Christmas to spend more time but it wasn't to be. Next visit won't be the same without you. My sense of loss is great, I'm so sorry for those that were even closer to you. I send out love and prayers to my dear Aunt Dor and cousins Michael, Mark and Bobette. You were really blessed to have a father like Uncle Ruddy. Uncle thanks for being with us in spirit although away from earth. I know you will be a guardian angel for us now. Much love xo "

"When the Pregnancy Resource Centre of Jamaica (PRCJ) was but yet a vision seeking expression, Mr. Bygrave, Astley, "Ruddy", opened his heart and home and made us welcome, the first gathering of stakeholders, most of whom later became Board Members and donors. Like them, he gave - not just of his money - but time, ideas, resources, and thoughts. Moreover, Ruddy released his trusted, beloved, Dorothy, to serve on our Board of Directors, a powerhouse of wisdom and encouragement, and he was always there as her 'Sounding Board'. PRCJ/Hebron benefitted in many ways from this relationship, whether from food from the backyard garden to a need to move furniture, he was there to help with his workers in tow. Ruddy's quiet presence brought us assurance, courage for the tough tasks and strength to keep going. He was kind without being superfluous, He was genuine and a real father. One young teen who saw the father in him, adopted him, pulling on the elements of provision and protection. Without fanfare, Ruddy and Dor embraced her life, and in the midst of their own crisis arranged counseling interventions for her - with us - while helping to supply her financial need. Darlene (not her real name) has been very moved by Ruddy's passing, she has lost she trusted and whom has proven to be trustworthy. She sends condolences along with our Board of Directors, staff, volunteers and residents.. We regret his passing and grieve with you, family members and friends. He was, indeed, a friend, and a friend of the ministry. May his soul rest in peace, and may we emulate his strengths: A man who has friends must himself be friendly, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother (Proverbs 18:24). "

" You were always a jokester; always carrying out some outlandish prank, but still always the one that we could on. Your opinion always counted. You could mold a lemon and make it turn into lemonade; there was this certain touch you had. When you spoke, we listened. You always found a way to make it happen. You were the one that would never go down for the count. You used to play this game "GOOD, BETTER, BEST"! Guess who was always "BEST"! Hmm...... So once again BIG BROTHER, you have OUT "BESTED" us. You have reunited with MOM on her birthday. WOW!! I guess you are....."THE BEST"! Love you always, (your middle sister). "BETTER""

"I always called you Brother Ruddy, for that is how I saw you and felt about you. All the memories I have of you are pleasant: having fun at the river, a trip out into the country, hobnobbing with your Radio friends, or just hanging out at home with Dor, you and Falmouth. It's hard to face the fact that I won't hear your voice or see you in this life again. Nevertheless, your quiet goodness lives on. The lives you have touched and cared about will be like stars in your crown. You did not shout it out, nor ask for any acclaim, yet we who have been your friends, and to whom you have been a friend, know that kindness is your middle-name. You are missed, and we sadly release you, for your Maker already had bigger plans for you. Yes, I believe it is so; your soul rests in His Peace, for have known Him intimately, the Resurrection and the Life. Hence, although we grieve, it is not as those who have no hope, for this is not goodbye forever, just: "See you soon, when Jesus returns, or we go to meet Him". You are greatly loved and missed, we are glad that you were born, and that you have truly lived!"

" Ruddy, I always bragged about you, my big brother and your achievements. Ruddy did this and Ruddy did that! I was so proud of you and I know that I had a special place in your heart. I remember when I was very young and you use to play a game with me. "Good, Better, Best"! You would always start the game and point to individuals. The key was to see where the superlative would end. Of course it never stopped with me! It was alway YOU! You always somehow were the "best"! The essence of you,Ruddy, is synonymous with fun, laughter, sarcasms, craziness, adventure, dreams, pride, caring, and achievement. I love you so much and feared you too. Your opinion of me did matter. I felt your love and your wrath. I loved when we acted up and did crazy things like when you put AUNT Myrtle's big white bloomers on a stick when it was hanging outside Aunt Lou's house to dry and run it through the house and yard! That was classic Ruddy fun. How you would take out your whole set of teeth and chase me when I was small and you did the same things with my kids! They, my children ADORED you! You were to them " fun and craziness"! I remember when I went to university and I wore my hair in an Afro! You said that I favored a red mongoose. I thought it was a compliment until I saw the rodent. You bought so much fun and excitement to this world, my world. Thinking about you place a smile on my face and a permanent tattoo of love that warms my heart! You personify joy and living life to the fullest! You passed over on our mother's birthday! I feel nothing in life is a mistake and your living and passing through this phenomenon called life made the world a more joyful place. You left behind wisdom, joy, laughter and lots of LOVE! Brother, I celebrate you! Thank you for entering and influencing my journey! My contribution will be to leave this life a better place for others also! Until we meet again, let the celebration and festivities continue. Eternal love, your little sister, P. "

"Ruddy, you were the big brother I never had. When I needed encouragement and unconditional positive regard, I turned to you and you were always there cheering me on. I once read somewhere that death leaves a heartache no one can heal yet love leaves a memory no one can steal. Thanks for that loving bond that we shared. Rest in Peace."

"I remember the first time that I REALLY saw Uncle Ruddy and studied his face. It was amazing to see how much he looked like his mother, my grandmother. I then began to pay more attention to the similarities that we shared with such distance and time between us. The sarcasm and quick wit that seemed to be a family trait was not lost on him nor myself. His lessons of hard work and perseverance have impacted me ... for this, I am grateful to have him as an Uncle and thankful that I have a wonderful aunt and 3 cousins to celebrate his life with and keep his light bright. "

"from ever since I me met Ruddy I feel that genuine response from Him ,To describe words cant explain at this time His memories will never leave me and my wife Verna we will not forget the bright side of you ,Rest in Peace Bro."

"From the moment Ruddy Bygrave was introduced to this school - Youth Enhancement Service, it was love at first sight. He caught the vision and ran with it. He did not only run with it in his mind and heart, but in practical and loving ways. He was constantly sharing ideas of how this community outreach could earn and remain open. He was silently passionate, but his love was evident as he never hesitated to voice his concerns, almost as though, if he had the ability, he would personally try every idea that he came up with. Ruddy reached out to those he knew and those he did not know, as he made every effort to ensure that as many young people as he could help, got a second chance at life. Whether or not they showed appreciation, did not hinder him from giving again, from reaching out again. The YES Programme will remember you always, Uncle Ruddy, as the father to the fatherless, who never withheld a helping and loving hand. Thank you so much Astley "Ruddy" Bygrave, for giving to the Lord! May your soul forever RIP."

"Ruddy IS an example of a true friend... the scripture says in Proverbs 18:24(b) "...there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother" We deliberately used present tense "IS", because an example that is worthy of emulation never dies or fades, but continues to make an impact in lives forever. Ruddy reached out to our family in so many ways, as a brother - lovingly and willingly, without fanfare... he was just being himself - a kind heart and nature manifested. Ruddy might not have said it in words, but there was never a doubt about his love for us and for so many others - love in action described him perfectly! He never withheld his heart. One of the most beautiful memories we have of Ruddy was seeing his big grin as he surprised us at our son's graduation in Dallas, Texas. They were also in Texas, but they were far away from where we were - but distance did not stop him, as he and Dorothy, son Marc and family friend Pat, drove the distance and came anyway - typical of Ruddy, going beyond the call of duty to be a blessing. That memory will forever be etched in our hearts - a wonderful surprise never to be forgotten. Thanks for being a brother and especially for a beautiful final memory, as you so willingly received and embraced our prayer, as we spoke on the phone on your 70th birthday - that was our final gift to you... silver and gold you needed not, but what we had we gave to you. We will always love you Ruddy and we will miss you dearly. Your kind-hearted, jovial nature will continue to live on in our hearts and memories always. We have faith that we will see you again, because as much as we wanted you to remain here with us, God wanted you more. Your Father saw the struggle in your body and said it was time for his precious son to come home and rest. Rest well our friend - Psalm 116:15 "Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his faithful servants." YOU ARE PRECIOUS TO GOD!"

"Ruddy, you are not dead. To die completely a person must not only forget the departed but must be forgotten. You will be ever present in my mind and others as long as we shall live, because of your caring humanitarian endeavors to all around you. I cannot mourn, I am enjoying your envied sense of humor and trying to do one better than you but I can't. You are etched, cemented , carved, dovetailed in my being forever and ever bro."

"God saw he was getting tired and a cure was not to be. So he put his arms around him and whispered "come to me" A golden heart stopped beating, hard working hands at rest. God broke our hearts to prove to us. He only takes the best."

"I wonder why everything in my life was suddenly going right. Now I know the answer and it was because my angel on earth has gone to heaven to make certain that my prayers reach safely. Thank you for saving me, for giving me the start of being a woman. Thank you for teaching me that forgiveness is possible as long as love was enough. Thanks for loving me with all my faults, for caring enough to smile at my dishearthend, lonely, broken, twisted and hated life. that warm smile gave me a whole different life. You were truly a great father. Words cannot and will never be enough to explain just how much you were meant to me and all those who you fathered along the way. You are truly blessed and favoured by the Lord. Your memories are always in my heart and that will never die. I love you "