Cultural figures from both Barbados and Trinidad today paid tribute to the late Barbados-born calypso veteran Singing Francine at a memorial service at the St. Matthias Anglican Church.

The 79 year old calypso artiste was born in Barbados but grew up in Trinidad. She died of a heart attack in Queens, New York in December.

Today she was remembered as a calypso icon who paved the way for women to excel in the art form.

Barbados Cultural Ambassadors Dr. Anthony “Gabby” Carter and Dr. Stedson “Red Plastic Bag” Wiltshire as well as other local entertainers, attended the memorial service.

In his tribute, former Trinidad National Calypso Monarch, Duane O’Conner, who was representing the Trinidad and Tobago National Carnival Commission, said Singing Francine touched many lives with her music.