By Socrates Smythe Saywon
SUGAR LAND, TEXAS – Veteran Liberian politician, Ambassador Dew Tuan Wleh Mayson, used the funeral of the late Minister Sylvester M. Grigsby to deliver a powerful defense of his legacy, rejecting what he called “outlandish accusations and downright lies” against the late statesman.
Speaking at the solemn service held at Faith Methodist Church in Richmond, Texas, Mayson described Grigsby as a man of impeccable character and moral strength who never allowed detractors to distract him from a life of service and principle.
“Quite unfortunately, in recent times Greg has been the victim of outlandish accusations and downright lies from elements not his equal in character or intelligence. But this is not surprising,” Mayson lamented.
Drawing from the reflections of American historian Arthur M. Schlesinger Jr., Mayson reminded mourners that true greatness often attracts envy and resentment. “If you have read the book The Decline of Greatness, Schlesinger reminds us it is in the nature of greatness that little men grow acutely aware of their own inadequacy. Character, intelligence, and moral strength married with compassion threaten those morally bankrupt and politically base,” he said.
Mayson argued that Grigsby, despite the smear campaigns against him, lived a life marked by integrity and uprightness. “Greg never gave credence to these accusers. Yet history is already eroding those lies and exposing the perpetrators. As our people in Sinoe say, when the tide goes down, you’ll see who will swim naked,” he added.
The tribute painted Grigsby not as a victim of political mudslinging, but as a man whose name would outlive his critics. Mayson insisted that the late Minister’s moral compass and compassion for others placed him in a rare category of leaders who serve without compromise.
The funeral followed days of quiet remembrance at Sugar Land Mortuary in Sugar Land, Texas. Friends, family, and fellow Liberians gathered to honor a man many described as humble, dedicated, and unshaken by political storms.
“Greg lived and lives well and upright,” Mayson concluded, a sentiment that drew solemn nods from mourners who came to pay their last respects.
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