Legendary musician David (Dave) Anthony Martins was laid to rest last Tuesday following a private cremation ceremony at Kaashi Dhaam Crematorium in Ruimzeight, West Coast Demerara (WCD), Guyana. The service, attended by close family, paid tribute to Martins as a devoted husband and father. His wife, Annette Arjoon, and their children, Alex and Victoria Arjoon, praised him for his role as a loving spouse and parent.

Annette reminisced about their first meeting 15 years ago and their swift marriage a year later. With emotion, she reflected, “I was truly blessed to have him in my life, sharing 15 years of joy, happiness, and togetherness. Today, he is in a better place surrounded by friends and family who loved him dearly.”

Victoria and Alex highlighted Martins’s profound impact not only as a musician but also as a father. “His wit, humor, and deep love for our mom are treasures I will hold forever,” Victoria expressed.

Retired Major General Joseph Singh, a close friend of Martins, spoke at the ceremony, honoring his distinguished service to his country through his music. “He served with dignity and honor, as reflected in the over 300 songs he created,” Singh noted. He emphasized Martins’s ability to unite people across divides, a feat politicians aspire to achieve.

Culture, Youth and Sports Minister Charles Ramson Jr. remarked on the difficulty of bidding farewell to such an extraordinary individual. “He will never be forgotten. His legacy of love and work must endure through all of us,” Ramson Jr. stated.

President Dr. Irfaan Ali praised Martins as an ‘Icon of Caribbean Identity,’ acknowledging that his music, cultural contributions, and ability to promote national unity will continue to resonate across generations. “He was not just a national asset but a regional icon, valued and known by leaders throughout the Caribbean,” the President said.

Martins, best known for his anthem ‘Not a Blade of Grass,’ passed away on August 18th in Guyana at the age of 90. The cause of death has not been disclosed publicly. Though his remains were cremated, a public memorial will be organized at a later date, according to his family.