The news hit the island like a sudden tropical storm, leaving everyone in a state of deep shock and sadness. We lost a bright star from our Jamaican firmament, the beautiful and talented Stephanie Hazle-Gunn. At only thirty-five years old, she has gone on to the great beyond, leaving a void in the hearts of those who knew her and those who admired her from afar. From the hills of St. Andrew to the busy streets of Kingston, the word spread fast that a queen had laid down her crown for the final time. It is hard for the community to wrap their heads around how someone so full of life and vibrant energy could be taken away so soon.
Stephanie was a woman of true substance and grace. Many people first got to know her back in 2013 when she graced the Miss Universe Jamaica stage. She wasn't just another pretty face in a line-up; she was a standout. When she walked across that stage, she carried herself with a dignity and a poise that shouted "Jamaican excellence" to the world. She reached the finals that year, and even though she was competing with the best of the best, her spirit shone through. She proved to every young girl across the island that with hard work and a bit of that island fire, you can reach for the highest heights.
But the pageant stage was just one part of her story. Stephanie was a real powerhouse in the acting world too. She had a way of capturing the screen, making the audience feel every emotion she was portraying. Whether she was acting in a local production or working behind the scenes in the media industry, her presence was always felt. Those who worked with her always talk about her work ethic and her infectious smile—a smile that could light up the darkest room and make the long hours on a set feel like a breeze. She was professional to the core but never lost that warmth that makes us who we are as a people.
It really touch a nerve when you hear about a young soul passing at the age of thirty-five. That is the prime of life, the time when you are supposed to be building your legacy and seeing your dreams come to full fruition. The Jamaican community at home and in the diaspora is feeling the vibes right now, sharing memories and photos of her time in the spotlight. It makes us all stop and think about how precious every moment is. Stephanie lived her life with purpose, and even though her time here was shorter than we wanted, she made every second count.
We have to send up a special prayer for her family, her friends, and the whole fraternity of entertainers and models who are mourning right now. To lose a daughter, a sister, and a friend so suddenly is a pain that no words can truly wash away. We hope they find some comfort in the outpouring of love from the public and in the beautiful memories she left behind. Her legacy will live on through her work and the inspiration she gave to others who want to follow in her footsteps.
As we say in Jamaica when a loved one moves on, "Walk good, Stephanie." You have finished your race on this side, and you did it with style and a heart full of gold. The curtains might have closed on this chapter, but your light will continue to shine in the hearts of your countrymen. Jamaica has lost a queen, but heaven has gained a brand-new angel. Rest easy, sistren, your work is done and your memory is safe with us.
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