Governor Expresses Condolences To People of Anguilla Over Emile Gumbs' Death

Governor Expresses Condolences To People of Anguilla Over Emile Gumbs’ Death

Governor Expresses Condolences To People of Anguilla Over Emile Gumbs' Death

LADY JOSEPHINE GUMBS AND SIR EMILE GUMBS

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CHARLOTTE AMALIE – Governor Kenneth Mapp said that he expresses his sincere condolences to the people of Anguilla, and to the many Virgin Islanders with strong Anguillan ties, on the passing of former Chief Minister Sir Emile Gumbs.

Sir Emile died earlier this month and will be laid to rest at a state funeral on Friday. Lt. Governor Osbert Potter will represent the U.S. Virgin Islands at the ceremony, Mapp said.

“On behalf of the Government and people of the Territory, I extend profound condolences to the Government and people of Anguilla on the passing of Sir Emile Gumbs, former Chief Minister of Anguilla,” Mapp wrote in a condolence message. “He has departed this life leaving his beloved Anguilla in mourning. At this sad time, it is fitting for the nation to pause and recognize his life-long contributions and service.”

Sir Emile, the island’s second and longest serving Chief Minister, is the only person from Anguilla to have been knighted, having been made a Knight Bachelor in 1994 by Queen Elizabeth II. He holds the distinction of serving two terms as Chief Minister and is considered a central figure in the Anguilla Revolution.

“Public Service is not an easy duty to perform and its rewards are often small,” Mapp wrote. “There are times, however, when gifted persons rise to the occasion as exemplary statesmen and leaders. Sir Emile touched the lives of many Anguillans through his dedicated and devoted service. May God comfort and bless those in bereavement and continue to bless the great people of Anguilla.”