8 June 2007 | The Royal Gazette

It was an occasion of laughter and deep sorrow.

Yesterday's special Supreme Court sitting in honour of Dame Lois Browne Evans saw a broad range of emotion.

But perhaps most evident was a profound respect for a Bermudian trailblazer who fought for honour and justice.

Dame Lois died from a suspected stroke at age 79. At yesterday's session, more than 60 people, mostly comprising of Bermuda's legal community, as well as politicians, gathered to pay tribute.

The Island’s courts were halted for the two-hour sitting and there were many bouts of laughter and deep sorrow, with some of those present, holding back tears.

Chief Justice Richard Ground opened the assembly, making opening remarks and regretted not having had the chance to know Dame Lois personally.

Mr. Ground declared: "We're here to remember and celebrate the life of Dame Lois Browne Evans. I regret that when I came to Bermuda in 1992, she had already ceased to practise criminal law." MORE! »