Seto Edward Scott

On August 3, 1934, in Townhead, Westmoreland, Jamaica, Seto Edward Scott was born to the late Celestina Mulvina Scott and the late Alfred Augustus Scott. He was the third youngest of seven children born to this union.

From an early age, Seto developed a deep love for books and learning. Although capable of physical labor, he quickly realized it was not his calling. During his elementary school years, he befriended an older gentleman who owned many books and generously lent them to him. This exposure nurtured Seto’s passion for education. One day, while working in the fields digging corn hills with his father, Alfred noticed that Seto would dig one hill and rest for two. When asked if he preferred to study, Seto replied simply, “Yes, Papa.”

Two months later, his father fulfilled that wish by sending him to Mount Grace Elementary School to prepare for the Jamaica Local Examinations—exams taken by students whose families could not afford high school tuition at the time. Through dedication and perseverance, Seto successfully passed both the second- and third-year Jamaica Local Exams, achievements that opened the door to higher education.

Seto was accepted into Mico Teachers’ College, a rigorous three-year program. Prior to attending, he spent a year studying Mathematics, Latin, and English by correspondence, knowing that failure would end his chances of enrollment. He attended Mico University College from 1955 to 1957.

After graduating, Seto taught at Linstead and Mount Grace Elementary Schools. In 1958, while teaching at Mount Grace, he passed the General Certificate of Education examinations in History and English Literature through the University of London. In 1959, he secured a teaching position in English and History at Branch Texas College in Malding, St. James, and later became Principal at Gibraltar School, located three miles uphill from Bog Walk on a plateau. While serving there, he pursued Advanced Level studies in Economics.

Seto’s academic excellence earned him admission to the University of Manitoba in Canada. During this period, he also found time for love and family. In February 1960, he married Enid Mertella Scott, a fellow educator and graduate of St. Joseph’s Teachers’ College, at Christ Church in Vineyard Town, Kingston, Jamaica. Enid hailed from Grange Hill, Westmoreland. Two daughters were born to this union: Andrea and Jeanette.

In 1963, Enid and their daughters joined Seto in Canada. Their migration coincided with a time when Canada was encouraging skilled immigrants to help develop the country, particularly in the western regions. Seto was able to work and continue his studies.

For two years, Seto and Enid taught Inuit children in a one-room schoolhouse in Norway House, a remote First Nations community on the Nelson River, approximately 19 miles north of Lake Winnipeg. Seto served as Principal, and Enid was the school’s sole other teacher. Enduring harsh Arctic conditions, their commitment and sacrifice enabled them to save for Seto’s continued education.

Seto earned a Bachelor of Arts in European History, English, and Geography; a Bachelor of Education; and a Master of Education in Geography from the University of Manitoba. He later taught at the Nova Scotia Teachers’ College in Truro for five years. After his position became redundant, Seto returned to Dalhousie University in Halifax to pursue doctoral studies. The Scott family lived in Winnipeg, Toronto, and Halifax for over 20 years before relocating to Florida in 1982.

Despite his many academic accomplishments, Seto believed his greatest wisdom came from the Holy Scriptures. He often said, “Faith in Jesus Christ has guided my life, provided for me, and sustained me. When I needed help, I prayed, and Almighty God supplied all my needs. Only God can work miracles in my life.”

Seto’s heartfelt wish for all who hear or read his life story is that they accept Jesus Christ as their Savior and live in preparation for the Heavenly Kingdom promised to believers.

Seto E. Scott is survived by his siblings Vera Knight, Loena Scott, and George Scott; his daughter Jeanette; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his beloved wife Enid Scott, his daughter Andrea Scott, his brothers George and Wilfred Scott, and his sister Ena Scott.