Muriel Everett Brathwaite

Born and raised in Guyana (then British Guiana), and after a fine Bishop’s High School education and big dreams about her future, she immigrated to the U.S. in 1959 to pursue higher studies at Howard University in Washington, DC. Through extraordinary perseverance and resilience, and with warm support from new friends and colleagues, she was able to succeed in the challenging social and cultural environment of the 1960’s U.S., which was diametrically different from her safe Guyana home.

She eventually enjoyed a 30-year career with the World Bank, and achieved her childhood dream of travelling the world, while helping speak to issues of real poverty in the developing countries. During her long retirement in Florida, she was a tireless volunteer to multiple social service agencies and continued her deep commitment and compassionate service to local communities.

Muriel had an insatiable appetite for reading, particularly books written by international authors. She also enjoyed going to the movies with her tastes ranging from children’s animated movies to serious foreign films. During her retirement she became an exceptional bridge player and frequently participated in bridge tournaments. Her favorite indulgences were ice cream and shoes!

More than almost any other value, she attached great importance to the meaning of friendship; and took enormous pride in being a loyal friend over many decades, and a mentor and guide to many extraordinary young women.

Muriel sat on the board for the Tampa Museum of Art and helped to raise awareness and gain exposure for talented under-represented minority artists. In honor of her many friends who have fought courageously against various forms of cancer, Muriel historically donated to the George Edgecomb Society at Moffitt Cancer Center to focus on Health Disparities Research. She supported the next generation of knowledge and change makers through post-doctoral fellowships. Learn more about her support here: https://www.moffitt.org/inspiring-stories/muriels-story/.

She is survived by her daughter, her beloved cat, Lilly and her extended family of the heart. She will be sorely missed by all whose lives were touched by her kindness, wisdom, and compassion.