Funeral for Ambassador Madge Barrett set for December 16

The funeral service for retired Ambassador Madge Barrett, affectionately known as 'Miss Protocol', will take place on Monday, December 16.

The service of thanksgiving will be held at the University Chapel, Mona, beginning at 10:30 am. Ambassador Barrett passed away at home on Friday, November 16, which also marked her birthday. She was 87 years old.

According to her adopted daughter, Bridget Barrett-Levy, following the funeral service, the interment will take place in the family plot at St Joseph the Grove Church in Gordon Town.

The Gleaner understands that condolences have been received from a number of prominent individuals, including former Prime Minister P.J. Patterson, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Senator Kamina Johnson-Smith, Opposition Leader Mark Golding, Speaker of the House of Representatives Juliet Holness, Minister of Gender Affairs and Sports Olivia Grange, Senator Peter Bunting, and former Foreign Affairs Minister K.D. Knight, among others. Condolences have also come from several heads of overseas missions.

Speaking with The Gleaner, Betty, Ambassador Barrett's stepdaughter, described her as a woman who was “a stickler for perfection” and always impeccably dressed, even in the comfort of her own home.

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In an interview with a Jamaican newspaper, Ambassador Barrett was described as “refined, regal, and boasting royal connections”. Having overseen diplomatic procedures for several members of the British Royal Family during their visits to Jamaica, she earned the title 'Queen of Protocol' following her retirement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Ambassador Barrett, who did not have biological children, adopted Bridget, one of her late husband's children, and became a stepmother to his other six children.

“She was always impeccable,” said Betty. “She loved to dance and enjoy a glass of red wine. We all have our own peculiarities, and she adapted to each of our unique ways.”

Famous for her immaculate dressing and signature red lipstick, Ambassador Barrett served as Chief of Protocol in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs until her retirement. Prior to that, she served as Consul General in Miami before transitioning into protocol at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, eventually rising to the position of Chief of Protocol.

During her tenure, Ambassador Barrett oversaw the protocol arrangements for several members of the British Royal Family during their visits to Jamaica, as well as for other heads of state.

She was also known as a guiding mother figure to staff at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, offering valuable advice to newly appointed foreign ministers on the intricacies of diplomatic protocol.

Ambassador Barrett is survived by her children Gail, Andrea, Kimberly, Leonard, and Elizabeth; four brothers; two sisters; three grandchildren; and other relatives. The second of nine children, Ambassador Barrett married the late Arthur 'Tunty' Barrett in 1967.

- Lester Hinds