Ervina Costella Wooding

In Latin, Stella means star; a luminous point in the night sky. A star shines and it is a word that truly describes Costella. Costella was a person that everyone knew. She had an infectious laugh, classy attire, and a warm personality. She was a ray of light that everyone admired. And now, here is her story. Ervina Costella was born in Barbados West Indies on October 2, 1941 to Belfield and Evelynn Gilkes. She and her seven brothers and sisters grew up in lower Carlton St. James. As a young girl, Costella always enjoyed having fun with family and friends. She also enjoyed singing in the church choir. Costella had a beautiful voice and performed many solos at church. Education was very important in the Gilkes' home. Costella was a very bright student and was always the top of her class. As she got older, she decided to pursue a career in teaching. She excelled in her studies, earned a teaching certificate and taught at the distinguished Half Moon Fort school. In the early 1960's Costella decided to leave Barbados and migrate to Canada and eventually New York. There, she married Noel Wooding who was her sweetheart back in Barbados. Noel and Costella had a beautiful marriage. The two enjoyed a life filled with fun times with friends and traveling. Their union lasted for 52 years and they were blessed with their only daughter, Leah. Costella was very ambitious and a great leader. Through hard work and dedication, she earned the title as supervisor for the insurance division at Bankers Trust. There, she helped many people find work and solidify their own careers. Aside from work, Costella had other passions. First, She enjoyed hosting social gatherings and entertaining people with her delicious meals. Costella could create dishes that were flavorful. People were always amazed at how quickly she could prepare these meals. There wasn't anything she couldn't make. Secondly. She enjoyed singing. She sang while she was cooking and she sang at church. Costella loved singing for the Lord. Her melodious voice could be heard throughout the church. People would look back to see where it was coming from, smile, and say, "Ah yes, that is Stella." Costella, was a devoted wife, mother, sister and friend. She was always willing to lend a hand. She was a kind of person that once you met her, you would never forget her. Now God has called her home early. And all who knew her, will definitely miss her. Left to cherish her memories are: her husband, her daughter, her grandson Jaxon. Her sisters: Urseline (Oswald Haynes) and Pamela (Deacon Hal Hurley and brother: Luton. There are numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and countless friends. Costella was a star and like a star she will continue to shine in heaven. May she rest in peace.