Linda Straker was more than a journalist. She was a voice, a presence, a force within Grenadian media whose work stretched far beyond the shores of Grenada. For many years, she dedicated herself to journalism with courage, conviction, and an unwavering commitment to telling the stories that mattered; especially the stories of the poor, the vulnerable, and the unheard.
Her passing has sent shockwaves throughout the media fraternity and the wider community. Today, I add my voice, and the voice of the REAL FM family, to the many tributes being paid to a woman who gave so much of herself to the profession she loved.
Linda was never afraid to speak plainly. Her frankness earned her admiration from many and criticism from others, but whether one agreed with her or not, there was always respect for the fearless manner in which she approached her craft. She stood firm in her beliefs and remained committed to truth as she saw it.
I had the privilege of calling Linda not only a colleague, but a close friend. We did not always agree on every issue, and there were times when our views differed sharply, but there was always mutual respect between us. That respect never faded.
Linda dedicated much of her work to the environment and the preservation of the natural world around us. She understood that journalism was not only about politics and headlines, but also about protecting communities, protecting people, and protecting the future.
And if there is one thing I must say — in matching her physical size, her heart matched her size too. Linda carried a presence that filled every room she entered.
I remember many years ago when the Media Association met at the humble REAL FM location in St. Patrick. Something happened there, that many who did not witness it may never believe. Trevor Thwaites, in his usual jovial spirit and known by many as “The Heavy Weight” decided on that day to prove he truly deserved the title. With both hands, Trevor lifted Linda right there inside REAL FM. The laughter that filled that room that day is something I will never forget. And as many would say, only at REAL FM could something so strange, so unusual, and yet so memorable happen.
Linda, my dearest friend and mentor, who at times became my producer and researcher during my morning program, I will deeply miss those quick telephone calls alerting me to a developing local story. Your instincts were sharp. Your passion was unmatched. Your commitment was unquestionable.
“Strakes,” I will miss you, and I will always cherish what we shared through the years.
As you journey now to join the elders, may your light continue to shine as brightly as it always did here among us.
Transition peacefully, my beloved sister.
“You have fought a good fight. You have finished your course. You have kept the faith.”
BY REALFM GRENADA’S ANDRE DONALD
