The British Virgin Islands is mourning the sudden passing of former legislator Carvin Malone.
Malone was reportedly rushed to the Dr. D. Orlando Smith Hospital early Sunday morning after being found unresponsive.
Following the news of Malone’s hospitalization, residents took to social media, posting prayers for the recovery of the former Minister for Health and Social Development.
However, shortly after the news reached across the territory, confirmation was received by our newsroom of the untimely passing of Malone.
The territory was immediately sent into mourning with residents, government officials and charity organisations taking to social media to extend their condolences to the family and loved ones of Malone.
The Virgin Islands Party (VIP) highlighted Malone’s significant contribution to politics in the BVI as he served approximately 17 years as the President of the Virgin Islands Party before being elected from 2019 to 2023.
The statement read, “Chairman Dr. the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley, expressed profound sadness at the sudden loss of Mr. Malone. Hon. Wheatley acknowledged Carvin’s significant contributions to the Virgin Islands and urged the community to keep the entire family in their thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. He emphasized the irreplaceable void left by Mr. Malone’s departure, noting that his legacy will forever be etched in the history of these Virgin Islands and the Virgin Islands Party.”
VIP’s President Sharia De Castro also penned a heartfelt condolence to Malone’s family as she credited the former president as one of the reasons for her involvement in politics.
“As president, I stand on the shoulders of giants. A giant he was indeed! I count it a blessing to walk in the footprints he has left behind,” De Castro stated.
She added, “Carvin was the voice. He was genuine; always wearing a smile. He was a strategist. He was consistent. He was a fighter! He was a champion! Beyond VIP or any other P, he believed in country! Carvin loved these Virgin Islands and remained resolute in his commitment to serve. He was also big on family!”
Meanwhile, His Excellency Governor John Rankin in a statement published said he was saddened at the news of the passing of the former minister.
He said, “I give thanks for his service to the Virgin Islands, not only in Government but also in many other areas, including as a dedicated member of the Lions Club. I will particularly remember his service during the COVID-19 pandemic as Minister for Health when we worked closely together.”
284 Media sends its condolences to the family and loved ones of the former Minister for Health and Social Development.