Friday, May 15, 2026
The following statement is issued by Professor Sir Hilary Beckles, Vice-Chancellor of The University of the West Indies (The UWI), in tribute to the Hon. Dennis Hugh Lalor O.J., LLD, who passed away on May 14, 2026.
The University of the West Indies community extends our heartfelt condolences to the family of the Hon. Dennis Hugh Lalor O.J., LLD honoris causa, a Jamaican titan who left this earth on May 14, 2026, to join the pantheon of heroes.
He was a gentle giant whose sharp intellect, wit and engaging personality ensured that he commanded boardrooms in Jamaica and the region. He was a model of civic responsibility and ethical leadership, and his entire career was marked by a steadfast commitment to the advancement of Jamaica and Jamaicans.
His distinguished service was not limited to the private sector. Among many other areas, he extended his energy to The UWI, serving on several management and governance committees. In the wake of Hurricane Gilbert in 1988, together with then Vice-Chancellor Sir Alister McIntyre he conceived, established and championed the UWI Development and Endowment Fund at the Mona Campus with support from the private sector. This model has been extended to the other campuses and acknowledges the power of partnership between the academy and the private sector.
In Dennis’ own words, captured in the citation prepared by The UWI for the conferral of the Honorary Degree of Doctor of Laws honoris causa upon him in 1993, "If the University fails the region fails. If the region succeeds, it is because the University has succeeded."
We remain deeply grateful that he included The UWI in his embrace. We extend our sincere condolences to his family, friends, colleagues, and all who were touched by his life and work. We share in their grief and celebrate a life that was lived with purpose, dignity, and service.
May his soul rest in peace.
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