Farewell to Leroy "Big B" Birch

Big B - Photo courtesy guardian.co.tt

Staff Article
November 29, 2005

In as many days, Trinidad mourns the loss of two internationally renowned entertainers. On November 25th, Leroy Birch, 'Big B' passed at the San Fernando General Hospital after a brief illness, possibly related to his Diabetes. Witco Desperadoes' arranger, Clive Bradley passed away the day after on November 26th at the Port of Spain General Hospital.

'Big B' will be remembered as an entertainer extraordinaire for his accomplishments - as an internationally renowned Calypsonian, parandero, and an MC, a National Extempo King champion, as well as other achievements in his multi-talented repertoire. Much of the honor was in music including picong, parang and extempore renditions.

Mr. Birch will be missed as an entertainer, as well as his contributions as an active participant and supporter of the cultural arts in Trinidad. He was chairman of the South/Central region of the Trinbago Unified Calypso Organization. He also remained an active member of the parang group 'La Divina Pastora' which he co-founded with the late Daisy Voison.

Leroy Birch had planned to participate in local shows recently and remained active as an entertainer up to his time of death.

'Big B' was 56 years old, and is survived by his wife Pat, sister Gloria Richardson and other relatives and friends.

The funeral service for Mr. Birch was held at the St Paul's Anglican Church on Harris Promenade in San Fernando on November 28th 2005. Culture Minister Joan Yuille-Williams and Junior Trade Minister Diane Seukeran attended the service.

Fr Harvey, who delivered the homily said: "It takes an artiste to make you appreciate what you have. We take it for granted until the artistes highlight it and only then are we able to enjoy it."

At his funeral, Mr. Birch was honored and celebrated by family, friends, and renowned extempo artistes, including Sheldon Nugget, Gypsy, Abebele, Lingo, Brother B, Lady Africa and Calypsonian All Rounder.

'Big B' was eventually cremated at the Belgroves Crematorium around 8 pm.

May he rest in peace.

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