By Rev. Newton G.A. Dixon, 16th Episcopal District
Bishop William Phillips DeVeaux first visited the Jamaica Conference in 2000 for a familiarization and exploratory tour. Having arrived in Montego Bay, it required that the local delegation which had received him would then escort him to Kingston on a 3 ½ hour ride back to Kingston. What could have been a laborious and languid journey turned out to be an engaging and enjoyable trip of laughter, wit, and wisdom. Thus began the encounter between the 113th Elected and Consecrated Bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church and the members of the Jamaica Conference. Shortly thereafter, his effervescent and erudite partner in love and labour, Dr. Patricia (PAM) DeVeaux, joined him. Together they raised the engagement and effectiveness of the work of the Conference.
Bishop DeVeaux was an unflappable human being who walked as the epitome of sweetness and grace and possessed a truly convivial spirit. He was decisive, firm, and focused but never crude or hostile. A paternal yet cordial relationship flourished between him and the members of the Conference. This relationship progressively unfolded into a multi-faceted experience of leadership, mentorship, and friendship.
Administrative Aplomb
Bishop DeVeaux led the Jamaica Conference with aplomb and ease. He was a peacemaker who encouraged and facilitated bridge-building and embodied a superintendency that empowered, encouraged, and affirmed clergy and laypersons. His adeptness with managing conflict, astuteness in guiding procedure, and acute physical and mental agility were hallmarks of his administration. He was not one to prolong debates but was incisive in his ability to pierce through the “husk” to discern the “kernel” of the many issues brought before him. His understanding of the often-troublesome nexus between human nature and divine imperatives was unmistakably potent. Difficult issues would be dealt with and dispatched with an amicable resolution.
Approach to Strategic Development
Bishop DeVeaux’s contribution to the development of the Jamaica conference through education was significant. He held the view that competent human capital was a strategic component of church growth. In this way, he encouraged and facilitated theological and secular education and training.
Acute mind
The Jamaica Conference experienced the brilliance of Bishop DeVeaux, an attribute that was on full display during a television interview in 2001 with arguably the brightest religious journalist Jamaica has seen. The interview was epic! His command, understanding, and articulation of the issues were masterful. Thereafter the conference was blessed to see his brilliant mind at work up close and from a distance. He was truly gifted and was himself a gift and a treasure to the church.
The Presiding Bishop, Rt. Rev. Marvin C. Zanders, II, Supervisor Zanders, the Presiding Elders, pastors, and the members of the Jamaica Conference mourn his passing but take joy and comfort in joining the members of the 16th Episcopal District and countless sisters and brothers across the Connection in thanksgiving and celebration of his life, work, and memory. We give thanks, in particular, for the many lives he indelibly and profoundly touched and transformed.
“Walk gud,” Bishop DeVeaux. Rest in peace.
