Born and raised in Savannah, the oldest sister to six siblings, Mrs. Audrey Ebanks soon became the family nurturer.
Now a gentle and modest octogenarian, throughout the years, she has steadfastly carried that nurturing quality into her community and church, becoming a source of strength and inspiration to all.
Her neighbours are richer for her work; never wealthy, she still helped many and while neither of her two marriages produced children, she became a mother figure to numerous children, most of whom still cherish her kindness today.
Widely known for her integrity, Mrs. Ebanks kept accounts for Cayman’s first electric company (later CUC) for 25 years until her retirement. She then functioned in a similar capacity for Maedac Supply Company until failing health curtailed that work.
However, she remains involved in the Islands’ drug rehabilitation services and continues as a member of Cayman Against Substance Abuse. She has also been an International College of the Cayman Islands trustee since its inception and has a certificate of appreciation for that.
Additional awards adorn the walls of her home, testifying to the level of community respect and appreciation for her contributions and work ethic: Service before self.
Equally revered for her involvement with Savannah’s Church of God (Full Gospel) for the last 64 years, Mrs. Ebanks – Sister Audrey there – is still an asset. Over the years, she served as secretary, treasurer and Sunday school superintendent, positively impacting many young lives in the process.
And she is also venerated for serving as church preacher for two years after the pastor died and a replacement could not be found.
Today, despite failing health, Mrs. Ebanks continues to serve as treasurer to the church council and records sermons to be aired on their radio show, Gospel of the Kingdom Echoes.
For her numerous sterling qualities, Mrs. Audrey Ebanks is awarded the Cayman Islands Certificate and Badge of Honour, something others grasp more readily than she: “I was really surprised when the Governor called,” she says, “And I still feel that way.”
