Obituary of Simone Lea Natasha Kellman-Washington

“Destiny helpers are of various kinds, sent along our paths in times of great need. There are angelic destiny helpers, human destiny helpers and the Holy Spirit of God”

Simone Lea Natasha Kellman-Washington was the last child born to Marie & Stephen Kellman on January 21, 1974.  As the baby of the family, she held a special place in everyone’s hearts, growing up in a Christian environment led by the Matriarch, Granny Pearl Kellman at the Christian Brethren Church.

Simone’s love of nature, dance and music was encouraged during the years she spent in the Rupununi Savannahs with her Aunt Gwenette.  Her secondary education was gained at Christ Church Secondary School and St John’s College while her tertiary training in Social Work was had at The University of Guyana where she graduated with Distinction in 2006 and the University of The West Indies in Communication and Conflict Resolution Skills.

Her knowledge in Social Work and people skills was used to advocate for the rights, dignity and liberation of the disadvantaged, underprivileged and disempowered.

Simone was a natural leader and had the ability to be comfortable with many, despite status and age. She served Guyana from 1991 – 2018 as a Teacher, Librarian & Documentation Officer, Community Liaison Officer, Social Community Mobiliser, Trainer, Counselor at Lodge Community High School, Gafsons, Guyana Forestry Commission, Environmental Protection Agency, Oxfam GB and Basic Needs Trust Fund. She continued to worship at the Tucville House of Prayer, Assemblies of God

Having migrated to Canada, she began working at IKEA Mississauga from July 2019 and quickly settled in with her warm personality   becoming the IKEA Communications Ambassador 2020-21.  As a colleague said, “Simone was loved and respected by everyone”.

She gave her all to help others, even some she didn’t know. Her faith in God was tremendous and believed firmly in “Destiny Helpers”. In Toronto, she soon became an integral member of the Temple of Praise Church of God, where she served on the Executive Board of the Women’s Department.

Simone passionately loved Guyana and ensured she kept in touch by being an active member of several Organisations including Christ Church Secondary School Alumni Association and UG Class of 2006 Dip. Social Workers.

In June 2020, propelled by her love for God and Country, Simone organized her friends and family in Guyana and The Diaspora to form “Prayers for Guyana” a virtual prayer group

When asked what skill did God give her she said “Giving: You are generous and never expect anything in return. You are happiest when you can help others.”

Rest in Jesus Sims! Your work on earth is done and your legacy lives!

Simone will be laid to rest in Guyana so there’ll be no wreaths by request.

Instead you can donate to her Go Fund Me account

https://gofund.me/76098f69