The Government of Bermuda extends its deepest condolences to the family, friends and loved ones of Mr Tyrone Alexander “Funk” Nesbitt, and to the wider Gombey and Bermudian community, on his passing. His death follows closely after the recent loss of Mr Zaniko Hendrickson, marking a particularly difficult period for Bermuda’s cultural community.
The Minister of Tourism & Transport, Culture & Sport, the Hon. Owen Darrell, JP, MP, said:
“The passing of Tyrone ‘Funk’ Nesbitt, so soon after the loss of Zaniko Hendrickson, is deeply felt across Bermuda. Funk was a cultural icon whose lifelong devotion to Gombeys, craftsmanship and community helped to preserve and strengthen one of our most important traditions. He embodied authenticity, pride in heritage and respect for the roots of our culture. On behalf of the Government of Bermuda, I extend my sincere condolences to his family, the Gombey community and all those whose lives he touched.”
Mr Nesbitt was a lifelong Gombey whose involvement began in childhood with Place’s Gombeys, where he became one of the troupe’s youngest members. Although he briefly performed with Merry Mice’s Gombeys, his enduring commitment remained with Place’s Gombeys until a short-lived retirement. Drawn back by the Gombey beat, he later co-founded the H&N Gombeys (Hendrickson and Nesbitt Gombeys), which would go on to become the H&H Gombeys. Well known and deeply loved, he was often affectionately introduced to children as “The Gombey Man”.
Inspired by Carnival Gombey leader John “Pickles” Spence, Mr Nesbitt mastered the side snare drum and continued to play whenever called upon, while also enjoying dancing when the opportunity allowed. He believed that understanding both rhythm and movement was essential to appreciating the full Gombey experience. His performances took him throughout the Caribbean and the United States, proudly representing Bermuda internationally.
A gifted artist and master craftsman, Mr Nesbitt was widely revered for his Gombey regalia. He designed and created full suits, masks and hats distinguished by intricate embroidery, symbolic imagery and exceptional attention to detail. His work reflected Bermuda’s natural environment, heritage and African influences, and each suit was crafted as a labour of love, often taking many months to complete. In recognition of his outstanding contributions, he was named a 2016 Gombey Festival Honouree.
Mr Nesbitt was also a skilled carpenter who created traditional Gombey accessories, including bows, hatchets and a notable boss drum, all carefully crafted to complement his regalia.
The Government of Bermuda honours the life and legacy of Tyrone Alexander “Funk” Nesbitt, recognising his lasting impact on Bermuda’s cultural heritage. As the island continues to mourn his passing, the Government extends its sympathy to all who will continue to uphold the traditions, values and sense of community that he so passionately embodied.