Tributes in words, music and dance were paid to Trinidad-born actor Sullivan Walker during his funeral at the San Fernando Creative Arts Centre yesterday. Among those bidding a final farewell were former Culture Minister Joan Yuille Williams, veteran radio and television personality Holly Betaudier, Senator David Abdulah and mas man Dawad Phillip.
Performances by the San Fernando Special Group, Arawak Dance Troupe and Sando Hand of Praise featured during the service. Walker's daughter, Keela, delivered a moving eulogy in which she shared fond memories of her father, who she described as a teacher, guide and her first example of what a man should be. "I don't know how to say goodbye to one who is half of my very reason for existing, how to let go of that bond that I assumed, regardless of distance, fuelled my every breath," she said.
The actor's widow, Carol Mark-Walker, delivered her own teary tribute in which she expressed sadness that Walker was not able to fulfill his dream of returning to Trinidad to established a school for arts. She touched many mourners when she said: "Sullivan, I hope I was a good wife to you in the time that we were together." Walker was born in Laventille on November 20, 1946, and was raised at Broadway, San Fernando. He spent his early career as a teacher at the St Paul's Anglican School and became heavily involved in theatre and theatrical production.
In the late 1960's he placed third in the popular local television talent show Scouting for Talent. He won a trip to New York which launched his international acting career. Walker featured in movies such as Get Rich or Die Trying, Crocodile Dundee and The Exterminator and made guest appearances on television shows such as Law and Order SVU, The Pretender and The Jamie Foxx Show.
