MEMBERS of the Western Provincial Government (WPG) and communities around Gizo on Thursday paid tribute to former Prime Minister (PM), Member of Parliament (MP) and Statesman the Late Sir Francis Billy Hilly.
The casket of Late Sir Francis Billy Hilly arrived in Gizo, the provincial capital of Western Province Thursday morning.
Upon arrival, the casket was received by Western Premier Billy Veo, Provincial Speaker Ramuraka Talasasa, and most of the 2 Members of the Provincial Assembly (MPAs) of Western Province.
MP for Gizo/Kolombangara Jimson Tanangada and MP for Ranoggah/Simbo Wayne Ghemu also witnessed the ceremony.
The body of the late Sir Francis was escorted from the Patrol boat by members of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) alongside his family members to the United Church, where a funeral service and official wreath-laying ceremony was held.
Speaking during the funeral service at the United Church Hall, Premier Billy Veo expressed deep gratitude and appreciation for the contributions of the late statesman.
“We come together in this solemn moment to honor and remember the remarkable life of Sir Francis Billy Hilly, who has left an indelible mark on our hearts and lives, especially the people of Western Province.
“Today, we stand united in grief, yet also in gratitude for having been blessed with the presence of such a remarkable leader among us,” Premier Veo said.
He described Sir Francis as a beacon of light and a source of strength, love, and unwavering support.
“Through every action, Sir Francis taught us the value of compassion, the significance of empathy, and the beauty of living a life filled with purpose and passion.
“To Sir Francis Billy Hilly’s beloved family – Fiona and the children – he was a foundation, a pillar of strength on which you could always rely. He filled your lives with laughter, your hearts with love, and your memories with joy.
“His devotion knew no bounds, and his love was unconditional. Today, as we remember Sir Francis Billy Hilly, let us hold tight to those cherished moments that will forever capture his spirit.
“To the government and people of Western Province, Sir Francis was a treasure – a true leader who stood by us through thick and thin,” Veo expressed.
He further highlighted Sir Francis’s commitment to the province and the nation.
“He supported us through challenges and was always ready with a word of encouragement or a listening ear. His friendship was a gift, one that enriched our lives and brought us closer together.
“Sir Francis lived his life with a generosity of spirit that touched everyone he met. He inspired us to be better, to love more deeply, and to cherish each day.
“His legacy is not just in the memories we hold dear but in the lives he influenced, the hearts he warmed, and the community and province he helped build.
“As we say our final goodbyes, let us not dwell solely on our loss but celebrate the gift of Sir Francis’s life. Let us find comfort in the knowledge that his spirit will forever live on in our hearts, guiding us, inspiring us, and reminding us of the love and leadership he shared with us all,” he said.
“In the days to come, let us honor Sir Francis by living our lives with the same leadership, courage, wisdom, and vision that he exemplified. Let us support one another, remembering that in our shared memories and love, Sir Francis will always be with us.
“To Sir Francis Billy Hilly, GCMG, former Prime Minister of Solomon Islands, former Member for Ranongga/Simbo, and former Premier, we say thank you for your leadership, vision, wisdom, love, laughter, and lessons. Though you may have left us, your light will never fade.
“Rest in peace, knowing you are deeply loved and will be forever missed,” Premier Veo further added.
The two-hour funeral service at the United Church ended with the casket being escorted to the Gizo main wharf before being transported by Police Patrol Boat to Ranongga for the final burial ceremony in Koriovuku.
Members of the public in Gizo and most of the Rannoggah people including those from Roviana also gathered to pay their final respects before the body was taken home for burial.
By ULUTAH GINA
Solomon Star, Gizo
