Bahamas Press records the passing of Mr Laddy Dashwell Bevans JP, who passed on Sunday at 91.
Laddy Daswell Bevans, JP, affectionately call Jimmy or “Dazzy” was born on the island of Grand Bahama in the small settlement of Eight Mile Rock on November 11th, 1934, to Nurse Luella Martin and popular boat builder Charles Bevans. He attended the All-Age School in Eight Mile Rock but after his mother passed in his early teens, his uncle took him to live with a family member in New York. Living in the big city was where he learned the trade of construction.
In the late 1950s Laddy went to the United States to be a part of the “Project” to assist with picking fruits in Florida since there was a shortage of workers due to many American young men being sent off to war.
He returned home in 1960 and worked on many construction projects in Nassau and most times was foreman on the jobs.
He also loved going to church even at a young age; it was not uncommon for him to visit multiple services on any given Sunday. His love for church was where he set eyes on a beautiful young parishioner Sylvia Darling when she had just returned home after completing university in the United States. Their courtship led to marriage in 1962 and from this union, five children were born. Laddy, a great family man, instilled the importance of hard work in each of his children and sacrificed to ensure that they all got a university education abroad.
Having a deep entrepreneurial spirit, Laddy embarked on many business ventures in mid and late 1960. In 1972, Laddy being a very smart dresser and a lover of fashion, took a bold leap and became one to break the racial barrier to become one of the first black business owners to open a retail store on Bay Street in the heart of downtown. Laddy grew his very popular business Bevans of London to a small chain of three stores on Bay Street. Bevans of London is still a household name today.
He is a true nationalist with a deep love for country. Appointed a Stalworth Counselor, Laddy loves his Progressive Liberal Party dearly whether in government or in opposition. He campaigned and worked with many candidates especially in the Marathon and Fox Hill Constituencies over the years to ensure their victory at the polls. He also campaigned with Sir Lynden Pindling here in New Providence and on some of the Family Islands. He enjoyed working with his late Uncle-In-Law Sir Clifford Darling. He had a deep love and affection for Sir Cliff.
As faithful worshiper at Zion Baptist Church on East and Shirley Streets, Laddy took his family to church every Sunday. In this local assembly, he served as Chairman of the Trustee Board under two different senior pastors. In this capacity, he oversaw many of the building projects at the church.
To his family we at BP extend our deep condolences and pray that his soul now rests and abide in the presence of The God he served and worshipped.
May he rest in peace.
