Reprinted from The Jamaican Gleaner. Story by Jermaine Lannaman.
Decent, dignified, dedicated, humble, lovable. These were some of the words used to describe the late former Jamaica cricket selector and successful club and high-school coach, Glenroy Royston McLean, whose thanksgiving service was held at the St Boniface Anglican Church in Harbour View on Saturday.
McLean, who coached at Kingston Cricket Club, St Andrew Technical High School (STATHS) and Kingston College (KC) and produced West Indies players such as Lawrence Rowe, Jeffrey Dujon, Herbert Chang, Richard Austin, Basil Williams, Uton Dowe, and the Samuels brothers, Robert and Marlon, died on July 23. He was 81.
“He always had a subtle way to show you how to do things,” McLean’s eldest of three children, Kevin, said in his tribute.
“He was also not quick to punish or ridicule, but was always quick to give advice.”
Remembering McLean as a dedicated father, husband and family man, the Reverend Father Leslie Hoo Sang, in delivering the homily, described Royston as a “man of purpose”.
“Don Bradman, George Headley, Sachin Tendulkar would have stood and applauded a marvellous innings by McLean,” said Hoo Sang.
“He didn’t make a century, but his innings was a remarkable 81.”
many tributes
Tributes were also presented by Junior Stewart of Kingston Cricket Club; Patrick Dallas, president of the KC Old Boys’ Association; Leon Robertson of KC Lodge; and Lloyd Richards of St Boniface Anglican Church.
“There is no doubt that his memories will last,” Robertson said.
“He was dedicated and had an unwavering devotion to the development of young people. Well played, Roy Mac,” he added.
West Indies Cricket Board president, Dave Cameron, who was coached by McLean at KC, and former Jamaica Cricket Association presidents Jackie Hendriks and Easton McMorris were also among the attendants, which mirror several sectors of society.
“As a Jamaica selector, he was outspoken in his views and had an eye for talent,” said Hendriks.
“He was very modest, made a sterling contribution and had a lot to be proud of.”
