Jean Barbara Gurwah

Jean Barbara Gurwah was born on August 29, 1937, in Tarlogie, Corentyne, Berbice, Guyana, South America, and is the third daughter and child of the late Hortense Yolande and Stephen Khadaroo of # 35 Village, Corentyne Berbice, Guyana. Jean is preceded by her siblings Leone Nonan Behari, and Patricia Bahadur. She is survived by siblings Elaine Rooney (who resides in the UK), Juliet Dabydeen, Steven Khadaroo (Bonny), Carol Soman, Jerry Khadaroo, and Andrew Khadaroo. Jean’s connection to her late grandparents, Jessica and Geenarine Khadaroo, also of #35 Village, adds another layer to the family story.

Jean completed high school and dreamed of becoming a nurse, but she briefly took on the role of a teacher. However, her father’s wishes led her down a different path. In 1953, fate intervened when Jean met Arjune Gurwah, and their love blossomed. Her father blessed Jean and Arjune’s union when she reached 18 years of age. In 1955, Jean and Arjune exchanged vows and began their exciting journey. Their enduring love stood the test of time, marking an impressive 69 years of marriage. They were blessed with nine children: June Thom, Grace Gangapersaud, Pauline Gurwah, Raymond Gurwah, Neville Gurwah, Margaret (Meg) Persaud, Carl Gurwah, Kenneth Gurwah, and the late Derek Gurwah.

Jean was hardworking; she and her husband worked in the rice industry in Guyana. In 1985, Jean embarked on a new chapter of her life, migrating to the United States. In the U.S., she dedicated herself to serving others at the Potomac Valley Nursing Facility in Rockville, MD. She was a woman of God, passionately embracing her Catholic faith and finding solace in prayers, particularly those of the Rosary. Active in her church community, she ensured her family attended Mass every Sunday. Jean was passionate about church music and songs and enjoyed activities such as cooking and reading the romantic novels, Mills and Boons.

The year 2001 marked a joyous occasion as she celebrated her 65th birthday surrounded by family and friends. Subsequently, in 2017, she commemorated her 80th birthday, bringing together her family from Maryland, Florida, and New York in a heartfelt celebration of love and cherished memories.

Jean leaves behind a legacy of love and strength, survived by her devoted spouse, Arjune, her 8 loving children, 28 grandchildren, and 20 great-grandchildren. She is also fondly remembered by her daughters-in-law, Margaret (Margo), Reeana, Sabrena, and Fazina, sons-in-law Karan and Gary, the late Hilton Gangapersaud, numerous nieces and nephews, and her surviving sisters and brothers. Jean's memory will forever be etched in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing and cherishing her. May she rest in peace, surrounded by the eternal love she generously shared during her earthly journey.