Pall-bearers carrying the coffin of the late Cecelia Chung. - Photo by Nedburn Thaffe

Hundreds of persons turned out at the Our Lady Star of the Sea Catholic Church in Port Maria, St Mary, on Monday to bid farewell to the late Cecelia Chung, a businesswoman and philanthropist who made significant strides in the development of the parish.

Described by many as an astute businesswoman, Chung was well known throughout the parish and her name had become synonymous with business. According to her son, Stephen Chung, her early establishment, Foo Hing and Company Supermarket, founded in Port Maria in the early 1930s, was one of the largest in the parish until it was recently sold.

Through philanthropic services she gained the admiration of many locals, acquiring the name 'mum'.

Among the persons who attended the service to bid farewell were Prime Minister Bruce Golding; Lisa Hanna, opposition spokesperson for information and youth; Robert Montague, state minister with responsibility for local government; and, Dr Morais Guy, Central St Mary member of parliament (MP).

Montague described Chung as a foundation member of the parish. He told The Gleaner that during his tenure as mayor of Port Maria, Chung was very supportive and assisted in a number of civic events.

Very sad day

"It is indeed a very sad day for us in St Mary and there is no doubt she will be deeply missed," said the MP.

Guy described her as one of the foremost businesswomen, saying she had contributed to commerce and civic development. He added that her supermarket was the platform for true wholesaling in the town.

Chung died of natural causes on December 18. She is survived by her four children, Kathleen, Stephen, Sylvia, Val and grandchildren.

Interment followed at the Port Maria Cemetery.