Cayman’s last living national hero, Francine Jackson, has been honoured in a lying-in-state ceremony at the House of Parliament, where family, friends and officials gathered to pay their last respects.
Jackson passed away on 7 July, at the age of 97.
On Wednesday morning, under a slate-grey sky, officers of the uniformed services carried her flag-draped casket from the hearse to the House of Parliament, outside of which friends, family and loved ones, along with senior government officials, gathered in welcome.
Speaker of the House Ezzard Miller, in an address on the House steps, said the ceremony was being held to honour the life and service of the late national hero.
“While today is a time of mourning, it is also a time of remembrance,” he said.
“Honourable Francine E. Jackson was designated a national hero in 2025 in recognition of decades of dedication and her pivotal role in the Cayman women’s suffrage movement. In 1959, she declared her candidacy in the general election where she was known as one of the Phenomenal Four.
“She lived with purpose, determination and unwavering commitment to serving others and, in turn, she helped shape these Cayman Islands. Her life, public service and contributions will forever be remembered with gratitude and deep respect.”
Prior to the beginning of the lying-in-state ceremony, past and present female members of Parliament, along with Governor Jane Owen, Deputy Governor Gloria McField-Nixon and former Speaker of the House Mary Lawrence, gathered at the Women’s Monument in Heroes Square where a ceremonial wreath was laid in honour of Jackson’s contribution to the advancement of women in Cayman.
Rev. Rohan Fosters, offering prayers, described the kindness Jackson had extended to the community and through the compassion she demonstrated throughout her life.
“As the body of our beloved national hero lies in state this day, we give thanks for the legacy left behind – the legacy of integrity, compassion and faithful service. May all who come to pay their respects be inspired by her life, a life well lived, and be reminded of the importance of serving others with humility and dedication,” he said.
Following the prayers, the flag at the House of Parliament was lowered to half-mast. Flags at all government buildings were also lowered, and will remain so until the end of Friday, 17 July. On that day, at 4pm, an official funeral will be held for Jackson at Wesleyan Holiness Church in West Bay.
Throughout the morning, officials, family members, friends and members of the public entered the room in the parliamentary building where the casket lay, to bow their heads, share memories and pay tribute to the late national hero.
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