Prime Minister Mia Mottley Pays Tribute to Former Minister and Senator John Williams

Prime Minister Mia Mottley pays tribute to Former Minister and Senator John Williams who died this evening at the age of 74. She praised his stellar contribution to the island’s development, describing him as a blessing to Barbados.

Below is the full text of the PM’s tribute:

This afternoon, Barbados lost one of its sons of the soil, with the passing of John Ellis David Williams J.P.

Quite literally, John’s life and legacy has been a blessing to Barbados, as he served with distinction as a Senator, Parliamentary Secretary, Minister of State, Ambassador to CARICOM and Chairman of several statutory bodies, the most recent of which was

Chairman of the Administrative, General and Professional Service Commission, which he chaired from its inception.

What was special about John, however, was that he was equally a blessing to the many people whose lives he touched with his service and leadership, especially in the church and in his charitable endeavours with the Rotary Club of Barbados South, which he also served as president.

John was a gentleman, an HR professional, a true leader and mentor who was always willing to share his knowledge and expertise with others. He always went above and beyond the call of duty, whether his assignment be for charity, his church, or his country.

On behalf of my family, the government and people of Barbados, I offer my prayers and condolences to John’s family, his wife Celia, his children Greg and Steven, his two grandchildren and the rest of his family.

I also share my condolences with his friends and everyone whose lives this wonderful human touched. He was a dear friend, and I shall truly miss him and his wise counsel. May his life be an example to all. May his memory rest in power.