Bermuda Mourns Longest Serving Premier Sir John Swan

Bermuda is mourning the death of Sir John Swan, the island’s longest serving Premier.

Premier David Burt said, “Sir John dominated Bermuda’s politics for a generation and for over a decade served as Premier of Bermuda. His tenure was historic and those of us who have followed him in this office still feel the shadow of his larger-than-life presence.”

Premier Burt continued, “Our politics often saw us on opposing sides, but we were united in a love of this Island, and her people. Sir John’s “common touch” remains a hallmark of his life and legacy. Whether in the White House or at Cup Match, he was the same man…true to his beliefs and ideals and always ready to greet people with his characteristic warmth. He certainly ‘walked with kings’ but never lost the common touch.

“On behalf of the Government and People of Bermuda I express our heartfelt prayers for the comfort of his children and his family. The legacy of this patriarch is a story of humble beginnings, dogged determination, business and political skill and success, founded in a genuine heart for service.”

The Cabinet Office confirmed that flags on Government buildings will be flown at half mast starting Friday, 5th June. His official biography said, “Sir John Swan was a real estate developer, philanthropist, and the longest-serving Premier of Bermuda. He was widely respected for his keen political and business insight, matched by his humility and gentlemanly demeanour. As a child, Sir John was visually impaired and had dyslexia. His parents instilled in him the importance of discipline and sacrifice, which he embraced fully. He learned to overcome obstacles through determination and a belief in his ability to succeed, principles that have guided his life’s work.

“In 1962, he founded the John W. Swan Agency, a real estate development and savings and loan company offering services in architecture, construction, land development, rentals, and property management. Between 1968 and 1978, the company developed 40% of Bermuda’s residential homes. His mission was to help ordinary Bermudians achieve home ownership and provide them with the financial tools to do so. The company also employed over 20 young Bermudian contractors, many of whom went on to launch successful businesses of their own. The firm celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2012.

“Sir John helped modernize the City of Hamilton through numerous building projects, including Bermuda’s first condominium complex and the island’s first 10-storey development at 141 Front Street, an environmentally sustainable and energy-efficient landmark.