DAME Marie Clemetson, the former chief nursing superintendent of St John Ambulance Brigade Jamaica and the nation’s historic first Dame of The Most Venerable Order of the Hospital of St John of Jerusalem, was laid to rest on Saturday.

In a moving tribute delivered at the thanksgiving service for her life, held at Holy Cross Church, Earl Jarrett, chairman of St John Jamaica, celebrated her extraordinary legacy, describing her life as “a masterclass in selfless service, unwavering faith, and profound humanity”.

He said Dame Marie’s distinguished international health-care career began in England where she received her professional nursing training. Upon returning home to Jamaica she immediately dedicated her skills to volunteerism, formally joining the St John Ambulance Brigade volunteer corps in 1960.