A number of family members, police colleagues, and friends gathered at North Street Zion Church of God to pay final respects to Senior Sergeant Iyo Abina Malone-Merchant during a funeral service on Thursday morning.
Members of the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda (RPFAB) turned out in large numbers yesterday to bid farewell to Malone-Merchant, who died on March 14 while on duty. She was 46 years old.
The thanksgiving service at North Street Zion Church of God saw an outpouring of tributes for the respected officer, who served in the force for over two decades.
The Senior Sergeant began her career with the RPFAB on June 16, 1999, where she quickly distinguished herself through discipline, intelligence, and compassion.
During a tribute delivered by a representative of the RPFAB, Malone-Merchant was described as someone who exhibited “exceptional potential” from the beginning of her career.
“Deeply committed to lifelong professional excellence, she pursued the goal of local, regional or international information cyber security,” the representative stated.
Throughout her career, Malone-Merchant specialized in complex investigations and supported international law enforcement efforts, demonstrating particular aptitude for digital investigations.
Her dedication to professional development was highlighted through her participation in numerous training programs, including courses with the Royal Police in Jamaica in 2013, followed by additional specialized training in 2014, 2015, 2016, 2019, 2022, and most recently in 2024.
Family members contributed musical tributes, including songs performed by the Kirby Sisters, cousins of the deceased, and a violin rendition of “It Is Well With My Soul” by her nephew, Jeremiah Hughes.
Pastor Ivor Davis, who officiated the ceremony, reminded those gathered that “nothing can separate us from the love of God”.
Senior Sergeant Malone-Merchant is survived by her parents, sisters, children and extended family.
Members of the Potters community and colleagues from various departments of the RPFAB were also present at the service, which concluded with the hymn “When the roll is called up yonder” as attendees paid their final respects to an officer who will be remembered as being dedicated and deeply committed to her community.
The police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding her death.
