Relatives remember woman who ‘brought everyone together’

Senior Multimedia Reporter

radhica.sookraj@guardian.co.tt

Described as a woman who worked tirelessly at jobs often dominated by men—mixing cement, operating a weed wacker, and excelling in sales—relatives mourned the murder of Sherryann Roett during her funeral yesterday.

However, officiating Pastor Victor Bowen said that while there are many questions surrounding her death, the best way to support the family was to allow them space to grieve without asking questions.

Roett, 47, a mother of two, was beaten to death. Her murder was disguised to look like a suicide. Her decomposing body was found on Monday in Couva.

At Roett’s funeral, held at David Guide and Son Chapel in Couva, her sister-in-law, Christi Roett, described the mother of two as the heart of their family gatherings.

“Sherry lived a life full of adventure, joy, and purpose. She embraced life with an open heart and open arms,” Christi said.

She recalled Roett’s love for children was evident in everything she did.

“Her van was always full of snacks and surrounded by children. They would spot her from afar, and she was always buying treats like lollies. She loved little children,” Christi said.

She noted that family meant everything to Roett.

“On Saturday, we celebrated Mom’s birthday. On Sundays, we would cook together. She was the planner, transporter, and music provider, always with her van filled with supplies for us. Family was the core of her life, and she had an extraordinary desire to bring everyone together,” Christi recalled.

Pastor Bowen also spoke about Roett’s generosity and meticulousness.

Acknowledging the grief and questions surrounding her death, Bowen urged mourners to give each other space to process their loss.

“Don’t get angry with her mother if she looks up to the sky and questions God. Leave her alone; let her grieve. Sisters and those who were close will grieve,” he said.

He advised mourners to avoid asking questions.

“The best thing you can do is be silent. If they speak (family), you listen; if they cry, you cry; if they smile, you smile. This Christmas is cancelled. New Year’s, worse yet, cancelled.”

Bowen said the entire family needed love and support.

“Her family was her everything. It is hard, and yes, we will question God in times of grief. It will take time,” he added.

Roett’s semi-decomposed body was found hanging from a tree on Monday near a fish stall at Carli Bay, Couva.

An autopsy at the Forensic Science Centre confirmed that she had been beaten to death. Her body showed signs of violence, including injuries to her forehead, eye, under her left arm, nose bridge, and both hands and feet.

Roett leaves behind two children, aged 15 and 18. Police said no missing persons report had been filed.

Her relatives said Roett was due to attend a domestic-related court matter a day before she was found dead.

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