Gbarnga, Bong County — Former Vice President Jewel Howard-Taylor has described the death of her son, Phillip Charles Taylor, as the greatest challenge of her life, expressing gratitude for the overwhelming support she has received from across Liberia during the funeral service held in Gbarnga on Wednesday.
Speaking during the ceremony, Howard-Taylor thanked God for what she called His “mercy and grace,” saying her faith has remained steadfast during the difficult period.
“This is my greatest challenge, but I want to thank the Almighty God for His mercy and grace. He has never failed us,” she said.
The former Vice President expressed appreciation to national and local leaders, including members of the Bong County Legislative Caucus, government officials, traditional leaders, clergy, and representatives of various political institutions who have stood with her family since her son’s passing.
According to her, more than 4,000 people from all walks of life visited over the past three weeks to offer condolences — a gesture she said left her deeply humbled.
“It was a real shock for me to see the amount of love and care and concern shown in the passing of my only son,” she noted, thanking the people of Bong County for rallying around her family.
Howard-Taylor singled out members of the county leadership including Senate Prince Kermue Moye Sr. and superintendent Loleyah Hawa Norris for their swift support in organizing arrangements in Gbarnga, explaining that when she made the request for the funeral to be held in Bong County rather than Monrovia, local authorities responded immediately without hesitation.
She also acknowledged the support of clergy members, family members, traditional leaders, and members of different political parties, describing their presence as a sign of reconciliation and unity.
“When something happens and death occurs, I believe that death waters everything,” she said, suggesting that the tragedy has helped to bridge divides and bring people together.
Howard-Taylor further conveyed appreciation on behalf of former President Charles G. Taylor, who she said also extends gratitude to the people of Bong County for their support.
In closing, she called for unity, peace, and reflection, urging Liberians to use the moment to come together and move beyond past differences.
“May this be the peace that we are yearning for, that we forget all ills and hold together as one,” she said.
Earlier, Senator Prince Moye, speaking on behalf of the Bong Legislative Caucus, assured the former Vice President and her family that the entire county shares in their grief and will continue to stand with them through the final burial rites scheduled for Saturday in Monrovia.
