Condolence Message from His Excellency Seth George Ramocan, CD High Commissioner for Jamaica on the occasion of the passing of the Honourable Oliver Clarke, OJ, Hon LLD, JP, FC, BSc(Econ) former Chairman, Jamaica National Group, the RJR Group and the Gleaner Company
I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of the Honourable Oliver Clarke, OJ, former Chairman, Jamaica National Group, the RJR Group and the Gleaner Company. On behalf of the staff of the Jamaican High Commission, the wider Jamaican and Caribbean community in the United Kingdom (UK) and indeed the Government and people of Jamaica, I convey heartfelt condolences to his widow Monica, daughter Maria Alexandria, the extended family and many friends and colleagues both in the private and public sectors.
Undoubtedly, Oliver Clarke was one of Jamaica’s best. He was an entrepreneur par excellence with a long and distinguished career in the private sector, while fostering strong relations and partnerships with successive governments. His outstanding career spanned many years and he can be credited for his committed work and sterling contribution to the growth and development of media and banking in the region.
He was known locally, regionally and internationally for his astute and visionary leadership. His transformative approach led to Jamaica National Building Society being one of the Caribbean’s leading companies and together with the Gleaner Company, household names within the Jamaican Diaspora across the world, including right here in the UK.
Despite his numerous accolades and accomplishments, Oliver Clarke could be aptly described as “one who walked with kings but never lost the common touch”. As such, he will be also lovingly remembered for his good natured, humble and down to earth personality and of course, his sense of humour and infectious laughter. Importantly, he will be remembered for his philanthropic nature and willingness to give a helping hand or good advice to those in need.
I feel very honoured and privileged to have known and shared good relations with Oliver Clarke over many years. I am particularly grateful for the personal interest he showed in my overall well-being and in my work as High Commissioner here in the UK.
This is indeed a sad loss of a giant and pace setter in the development of modern Jamaica. We owe a great debt of gratitude to the Honourable Oliver Clarke, for his unstinting and exemplary service to the government and people of our beloved island.
He has touched many lives and has left an indelible mark in all our hearts. He will be sorely missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, daughter, family and all those who cherished him.
