Percival, Asil

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July 15, 1941 -March 13, 2004
'IIPE/WI?{g
!frilfay, Marr1i 26, 2004 • 5:00p.m. - 7:00p.m. • tJJavis !funeral Jlome
Saturrfay, Marr1i 27, 2004 • 9:00a.m. -10:00 a.m. • Cliristdiurcli Metfwtlist Cfiurcli
ST11{'11ICT.
Saturrfay, Marr1i 27, 2004 • 10:00 a.m. • Cliristcliurcli Metfwtfist Cfiurcli,
INTERMENT: Western Cemetery No. 2
Mar~t Square
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Survivors
Wife: Millicent Percival
Daughters: Ingrid Percival & Shelley Percival
Son: Leon Percival
Grandchildren: Kyza Callwood & Shequia Williams
Adopted Father: David Puritz
Adopted Mother: Adelina Cline
Adopted Daughter: Bemadette Todman
Adopted Grandson : Mahal Todman
Brothers ... .......................................... .......... Charles Arthur Percival, Joseph Percival, St. Clair "Jimmy Percival,
Austin Percival, William "Dallie" Percival, Wilbert "Sonny" "Mice" Percival,
David "Jackie" Todman, Camille "Cap" Todman & Neville Smith
Sisters ............ .... .............. ................... Helen Percival, Alice Percival George, Leo la Todman, and Re ita Edwards
Uncles ..... ..... ...... ............. Norword Percival, John Christopher, George Christopher & Charles Hugo Christopher
Aunts ............................................................................. ............ Eugenia Sprauve, Ellamay Stout, Evangeline Bass
Sister-in-laws ......................... . Irene Williams, Ilean Forbes, Sentela Williams, Judith Simmonds, Lorraine Dean,
Yvonne Harrigan, Jocelyn Malone, Loma Williams, Elvia Percival & Joyce Percival
Brother-in-laws ..... .................................... Alfredo Williams, Alton Williams, Alvin Williams & Ebeneza George
In-laws ........... ............ . Otis Blackwood, Raymond Forbes, Andrew Malone, Arthur Harrigan, Jeffrey Simmonds,
Marion Dean, Jennifer Williams, Michael Williams, Malvin Hendrickson
Special Cousins ... Majorie Vanterpool, Doris Brin, Averricia Todman Williams, Lonna Percival & Judith Hodge
Special Friends ............ ..... ............. ... ........ ....... Anton Hodge, Juanito Benjamin, Norman Anderson, Cecil Farell,
Roy Stephens, Simon Rawlins, Bergin Benson
Many other Nieces, Nephews, Cousins and Friends too numerous to mention.
Pallbearers
Charles Arthur Percival, Joseph Percival, St. Clair Percival,
Austin Percival, William Percival & Wilbert Percival
Hon o rary Pallbearers
Avery Percival, Clifford Jones, Elroy Tumbull, Andrew Malone,
Arthur Harrigan, Ron Martin, Cecil Farrell & Simon Rawlins
Asil "Chicken" Percival
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Eulogy
ASIL "CHICI<EN" PERCIVAL
Asil Percival affectionately known as "Chicken" was
born on July 15, 1941 in Road Town, Tortola, British
Virgin Islands. He was the first child of his parents
Amelia Christopher Percival and Samuel "Sarnmy
Cuchie" Percival (both deceased). Asil was baptized at
the Road Town Methodist Church and as a child he
attended Anglican and Methodist Church, and was a bass
member in the junior choir at Methodist Church. As an
adult he would attend no other church, but Methodist.
He was educated at Road Town Methodist Church School
and was very bright in his studies, all subjects, especially
math. As~ young man, fifteen years of age, Asil migrated
to St. Thomas where he lived with his aunt "Alice
Cuchie" in Savan and worked with her at the Igloo Coffee
Shop. Shortly after he met and married his wife,
Millicent Percival in 1965. They were married for 38
years and produced three children, Ingrid the eldest,
Shelley, and Leon Percival. Asil was a hard worker and
was employed at many places, Sparky's, Norman's, the
Old Municipal Hospital, the Puritz & Paiewonsky family,
David's Place, Greenhouse, Food Town, Quality Food,
West Indies Corporation, Joe's Discount, and the Virgin
Islands Legislature, where he worked in maintenance for
13 years. He retired in 2002 with over 16 years of
government service.
Asil was gifted with his hands and was a talented artist,
drafts man and a painter by trade. He would sketch homes
with beautiful landscaping of flowers and trees and the
most magnificent scenic views. Asilloved and enjoyed
sports, especially cricket and softball, which he played.
He was on many softball teams. The last team he played
for was the Legislature. He also played the steelpan at
the Pelican an4, Yacht Haven Hotels. He also was a great
bartender for parties and functions. As a young man,
Asil loved fishing and knew everything there was to
know about fishing and fish. He loved to sail the seas on
small boats between Tortola, St. John and St. Thomas.
As a boy he was called "Chicken" because he was
very small frame in size, and skinny and over the
years his friends gave him other names such as "Rooster"
and "Foul." Those who knew Asil knew that as small as
he was, he had a loud voice and wherever he went you
heard his voice. He was an outspoken individual and
spoke his mind immediately on any issue and stuck to it.
He was liberal, but very social and vocal with politics
and argued many points on major political issues. Most
importantly, Asil was a very kind and generous man to
everyone that he came in contact with and helped many
people when they were in need. Many times he would
help people first before himself and his own family. If
you came for help and he did not have it, you would
never know because he would give you his time and his
last and do without. Many days when he was in need, he
refused to ask anyone to help him. However, his family
was always there for him. This was because Asil was a
very proud man. There was another side to Asil. He was
a deeply religious man who enjoyed reading his Bible
daily. He kept it on his bed very close to him and listened
to religious music and programs. He knew all the
scriptures in the Bible and could tell you where the verses
were located.
In September of2002, Asil became ill and immediately
had an emergency surgery and spend time in the hospital.
Shortly after the surgery in December he went on his
first cruise with his family, which he talked about all the
time. He was looking forward to another cruise. As a
retiree, Asil spend more quality time with his family, his
wife, children, grandson Kyza and spent the most time
with his granddaughter, Shequia who he adored and loved
dearly. She always managed to keep him busy, active
and uplifted his spirits. Asil became ill again and went
into the hospital. He fought hard to win his battle until
his passing at the Roy Schneider Hospital on March 13,
2004.
Asil "Chicken" will be sorely missed and will always
remain in our hearts. May his Soul Rest Peace
By: Shelley Percival
Asil "Chicken" Rercival
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In Tribute
MESSAGE FROM THE SENATE VICE .PRESIDENT
DIGNITARIES
MESSAGE FROM THE GOVERNOR
With deep regret, I extend sincere condolences to the family,
loved ones and friends on the passing of Asil "Chicken" Percival.
My thoughts and prayers go out to his wife, Millicent, their children,
especially Ms. Shelley Ann Percival, administrative assistant in the
St. Thomas/ Water Island Administrator 's Office in the Office of
the Governor, and grandchildren. lt is always sad to lose a loved
one, particularly the family patriarch, at such a relatively young
age.
A devote family man, Mr. Percival enjoyed spending most of
his time 'Yith his family and grandchildren, especially following
his retirement in 2002 from the Legislature of the Virgin Islands
after 16 years of dedicated government service. Mr. Percival was a
kind, gentle and respectful person who loved playing and enjoying
sports of all sorts. He also had a natural talent for drawing scenic
views and architecture . He was an outspoken individual who
enjoyed debating the events of the day, and once committed to an
idea or cause, he would hold fast to his position.
On behalf of the people and Government of the United States
Virgin Islands, I extend heartfelt sympathies to his former
colleagues, the family and all who mourn the passing of Mr. Asil
Percival. May Almighty God comfort and sustain his loved ones
and friends during this difficult time of bereavement. May his soul
rest in peace.
- Charles W Turnbull Governor
MESSAGE FROM THE SENATE PRESIDENT
As we bow in grief, the heartfelt sympathy of members and
employees of the 25th Legislature is extended to the family and
loved ones on the passing of Asil "Chicken" Percival.
We are bound to feel shattered and helpless in the face of our loss .
This is natural. but as the first bitter pangs of our grief begin to
pass. we must thank God that we were privileged to have had this
great man among our staff at the Legislature.
"Chicken", as he was affectionately known, imparted on us the
sense and the im-portance of family, friends, hard work, and the
love oflive, in hopes that we embrace and share these ideals with
all mankind.
I pray to God that we shall, and under God we will.
- David S. }ones
President, 25 th Legislature
Three things stand out in my mind as I think ofAsil Percival. He
was a hard worker, as 1 personally witnessed during his 13 years of
senate employment; he had a wonderful sense ofhumor and he was
a source of encouragement to me in my political tenure. Initially, to
my pleasant surprise, he offered to assist me at a function held at
campaign headquarters located near O'Henry 's Dry Cleanina
establishment. This he did "out of the blue," you might say, withou~
any regard, whatsoever, for political "payback". He simply wanted
to be of help, he had said; and many a time thereafter, though
unrequested, be offered his time and energy. Naturally, my
appreciation turned to affection for his sweetness, his kindness and
for his sincere, unaffected manner. These attributes are particularly
admired and refreshing in a political atmosphere and everyone felt
Asil could be trusted.
I extend my condolences to his family, especially to his wife,
Millicent who, at his side during his painful , lingering illness, was
such great consolation to him. May Asil at last rest in peace.
- Senator Lorraine L. Berry
With Sincere Condolences to Mrs. Millicent Percival, Wife,
and the Family of Asil "Chicken "Percival
I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing ofMr.Asil Percival,
affectionately known as "Chicken". Words cannot be found to
express my heartfelt and profound sympathy during this period of
bereavement. Nothing said can truly dull the pain of sorrow felt by
all. Let us recall and focus on the good times we shared with
"Chicken". As for me, it certainly was a privilege to have known
him, and I know he will be sorely missed by all .
In retrospect, let us recall the many years of service to this
community during his tenure in the Facilities Management Division
of Legislature of the Virgin Islands. "Chicken" was one who put
out his best efforts to accomplish all his duties. He will also be
remembered for his love and devotion to his family.
My wife, family, and staff join me in conveying our deepest
sympathy to his wife, Millicent and all the family. May God grant
you solace during this difficu It period of mourning.
- Adlah "Foncie"Donastorg
Asil "Chicken" Percival
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TO THE FAMILY AND FRIENDS OF ASIL PERCIVAL
lt is with heartfelt sympathy that I express my condolences on
the passing of Asil Percival, affectionately known as "Chicken."
Mr. Asil Percival served the Legislature for 13 years as a
Maintenance Work; r in the Facilities Management Division. I first
met Mr. Percival during the Twenty-third Legislature and recognized
him for being outspoken and ready for any task set before him. The
Legislative family will truly miss "Chicken."
Remember, trust in the Lord who gives us strength. As the
Psalmist wrote in Book 120, verse I, "In my distress, l cried unto
the Lord and he heard me. " I pray that the love of family, friends
and his memories be a source of comfort in your time of
bereavement. This period should serve as a rallying point for family
and friends to come together to, reaffirm their love and support for
each other. I hope these words will make your sorrows a little easier
to bear.
On behalf of my wife, Jacqueline, our children, and my staff, we
extend our deepest condolences. May your heart be eased by God's
grace and love.
With Deepest Sympathy,
- Car/ton ''Ita/ " Dowe Senat01; 25th Legislature
MESSAGE FROM THE SENATOR-AT-LARGE
Members of my staff, join me in expressing our profound sadness
over the death of a retired staff member, Asil Percival , affectionately
known as "Chicken".
After 13 years of dedicated service to the Virgin Islands
Legislature, Mr. Percival retired in 2002. His commitment to his
duties and the Legislative community earned him the respect of his
eo-workers and certainly as a cherished friend. In addition, he loved
and cared for his family and was always willing to assist when
there was a need . He will be sorely missed by family and friends
alike.
May the wonderful memories that you have shared over the years
comf011 you at this time, and may you find solace in knowing that
our dear friend "Chicken" is now resting in a place where there is
no more pain or suffering.
On behalf of my staff, J extend deepest condolences. J pray that
Almighty God will comfort, and strengthen you at this time of
bereavement, and in the midst of your sorrow, may he grant you
His peace, and may his soul rest in peace.
Sincerely,
- A/mando "Rocky" Liburd Senator-at-Large
25th Legislature of the Virgin Islands
A MESSAGE FROM
SENATOR SHAWN-MICHAEL MALONE
1 join the Percival family, along with the entire Virgin Islands
community in mourning the passing of Asil Percival.
"Chicken," as he was commonly known, was a man who knew what
he was doing and got things done . Anytime there was a problem
that no one could resolve, you could count on him. B e s i d e s
being a " Jack of All Trades," Chicken was expecially good at
masonry, plumbing, roofing, and painting side walks, all the parking
bumper stops with the names of Senators on them and the names of
various division heads you see at the Legislature are Chicken's
trademarks . Chicken was a man with the plan. He had a large heart
and would always go that extra mile to help others. One thing I was
told about Chicken , is how supporti ve he was of his family,
especially his children and grand-children. Indeed, the Legislature
of the Virgin Islands lost another truly warm hearted and loving
individual in Chicken. His memory will be forever etched in the
minds and hearts of those he touched at the Legislature and
throughout the community.
My entire family, especially my mother, Pauline, join me in
extending our condolences to all who mourn his passing. May God
comfort and bless his entire family during this difficult period and
may you all be sustained by the knowledge that many share your
loss .
May he rest in peace
- Shawn-Michae/ Ma/one, Senator
25th Legislature of the US. Virgin Islands
"The dark today leads into light tommorrow; There is no
endless joy ..... and yet no endless sorrow."
-Ella Wheeler Wilcox
To the family and mends of the late Asil "Chicken" Percival,
may you find comfort in his memories as you mourn his passing.
Once a member of the Legislative family, I assure you that his many
contributions will never be forgc)tten. Chicken as he was
affectionately known will always be remembered as the " no
nonsense guy" . Working in the maintenance department for over
I 0 years, he always ensured that the job got done and done well.
He used his creativity and his skills on many occasions to enhance
the appearance of the Legislature on St. Thomas.
We offer our prayors to you, the family of Asil "Chicken"
Percival as he begins his journey home. May God bless you and
keep you in your time o£ sadness.
Sincerely,
- Luther F Renee
25th Legislature of the Virgin Islands
Asil "Chicken" Percival
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