PREMIER SMITH REMEMBERS MR. ELTON GEORGES, CMG, OBE

Last evening, I was saddened to learn of the passing of Mr. Elton Georges, CMG, OBE, a man of great strength, courage and conviction who I have had the pleasure of knowing for many decades as he dedicated his entire life to Public Service.

Having served this Territory well as an educator, permanent secretary, Deputy Governor, and the first Complaints Commissioner (Ombudsman), Mr. Georges possessed a towering intellect that made him a staple within the Public Service, even beyond retirement.

During his lifetime, Mr. Georges would have seen the Public Service and this Territory evolved and transformed as his own contributions would have helped to shape many initiatives and significant changes in the Territory, including the evolution of disaster management. He was not afraid of change and was always finding different ways to strengthen the Public Service.

Those of us who worked with Mr. Georges will long remember his appreciation for providing exceptional public service delivery, as he shared this sentiment at every opportunity with Government officials and public officers alike.

He was brilliant, accomplished and candid. He had strong moral and ethical principles.  He was quite eloquent in making his position known and he had great persuasive skills. There was also the lighter side to him as he was jovial and often told stories with a moral behind them.  I must say that despite his accomplishments, he remained a humble man.  

Indeed, he loved the Public Service and has left his indelible foot print in this Territory and around the world, where he represented us well. He loved the Virgin Islands and served devotedly.

On behalf of my Government, the people of the Virgin Islands, I extend condolences to his wife Rita, son Kamau, and daughter Noni who currently serves as the Deputy Registrar, Supreme Court within the Government of the Virgin Islands, and the rest of the family.

May God comfort and strengthen you during this difficult time.