BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – MANY expressions of grief and sadness have been made and continue to be made as news spread on the passing of senior civil servant Elvis Newton.
SKNVibes understands that after an extended bout of illness, Newton died earlier today (Aug. 18). And across the airwaves and on social media, many individuals whose lives have been touched by Newton have been extending condolences to his relatives and friends on the sad occasion.
Among them are Prime Minister Dr. the Hon. Timothy S. Harris and former Prime Minister the Rt. Hon. Dr. Denzil L. Douglas.
In a communiqué issued this afternoon by his Press Secretary, PM Harris extended condolences to Newton’s family on their unfortunate loss.
“It is with profound sadness that I learned of the passing (this morning) of Mr. Elvis Newton, Head of the Public Service in the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis. Mr. Newton had been ailing for a while and recently travelled overseas for additional medical care.
“On behalf of the government and people of this country I offer condolences to his wife Ermel, his daughter Ngala, his son Khafre and the rest of his family, co-workers in the public service and his many friends.”
Dr. Harris also spoke to the dedication of the late Public Service Head.
“Elvis dedicated his life to serving people. In the relatively short time that we were blessed to have him with us, he touched many lives as a community organiser, a teacher, mentor and, at the time of his death, this nation's top public servant.
“He was a dedicated husband, father and diligent, competent and professional in everything he undertook. In fact, he was the consummate public servant and he will be sorely missed. I ask the nation to join me in prayers for his family during this very difficult time.”
In a communiqué from Dr. Douglas, the former PM stated that he was deeply saddened to learn of Newton’s death.
He said that Newton was an outstanding public servant and a most principled and decent human being. “My tenure as Prime Minister was significantly enhanced by the competence and professionalism of Elvis Newton, and our nation bore witness to the dedication with which he unstintingly brought these same gifts to the current government as well.”
Reflecting on Newton’s career, Dr. Douglas stated that it was guided throughout by a steadfast commitment to country and the nation is left considerably poorer as a result of his death.
The St. Kitts-Nevis Labour Party Leader said his heart is indeed heavy at this moment.
“I shall forever cherish the memory of his service to our country and on behalf of SKNLP and on my own behalf, I extend heartfelt condolences to all who loved him.”
He called on the nation to pause for a moment in remembering Newton.
“Let us remember Elvis as a unique reliable hardworking and dedicated civil servant first serving as teacher, rising through the ranks to Permanent Secretary to several ministers in several ministries and departments, for example, Health and Social Services; Foreign Affairs; Homeland Security; Immigration and Labour; and National Security; and finally serving as Head of the Public Service for the last two and a half years.
“Let us remember Elvis for always putting his country above self, so selflessly demonstrated only a few months ago as he faithfully carried out his public duties in transitioning the government of SKN from one Administration to the next, though painfully distressing and stressful it must have been.
“Yet he rose to the occasion like a giant as he faithfully served the country under this new Administration even at the risk of his own relapse after he had recovered so remarkably well in remission of his illness.”
He added that the stalwart should be remembered as head of his family household, dear husband to his dearest Ermel; father to his youthful daughter who just completed undergrad studies and starting post grad; and his son who is about to commence undergrad studies; as well as his brother, uncle, cousins and members of his extended family.
“Finally,” Dr. Douglas said, “let us remember Elvis as a God-fearing human being with principles; and conscientiously serving his God through faithful and loyal service to his church, affiliated Organizations - political and otherwise- his community and his fellowmen at work, at home and abroad.”
Newton served in excess of 30 years in the civil service in several top-level capacities and at the time of his death was the Head of the Civil Service.
