Cornelius Mathurine

In loving memory of Cornelius (Sonny) Mathurine, who graced this world with his presence on September 15, 1948, in Petit Valley, Trinidad, and peacefully departed on May 29, 2024. Sonny was the beloved first-born child of Sylvan and Marie Mathurine and was affectionately known as "Gasher" among his friends. He was preceded in death by his loving parents.

Sonny's journey through life was marked by his unwavering dedication to his craft and his boundless creativity. He received his early education at Petit Valley Boy’s Roman Catholic School and later Osmond High School, laying the groundwork for a lifetime of learning and exploration. From a young age, Sonny demonstrated a remarkable talent for craftsmanship, excelling as a craft master, welder, woodworker, and upholsterer. His hands were his instruments of expression, shaping wood and metal into works of art that reflected his vibrant spirit and keen eye for detail. Sonny's skill as a painter and woodcarver was unmatched, with his pieces often depicting intricate faces and scenes of places that held special meaning to him.

In 1984, Sonny embarked on a new chapter of his life, immigrating to New York to be with his beloved family. It was there that he found his home and spent the remainder of his days surrounded by the love and warmth of his family and friends.

Sonny will be deeply missed by his children, Maria and Dovie, his devoted life partner, Cherina, his brothers Kenneth, Brian, and Frankie, his sisters Jemma, Joycelyn, and Jacqueline, as well as a multitude of nephews, nieces, brothers and sisters-in-law, and cherished friends. Though he may no longer walk among us, Sonny's memory will be forever etched in our hearts, and his spirit will continue to inspire and uplift us in the days to come.