Former VI Legislator Cyril Lewis Walters MBE passes
Mr Walters was 87 years of age, having been born on October 17, 1934.
A former Minister in the then Ministry of Education, Health and Welfare under a Virgin Islands Party (VIP) Government, Mr Walters was well-known, highly respected, and much-loved for his many contributions to the Virgin Islands (VI).
A man dedicated to service above self
The late Mr Walters- an indigenous Virgin Islander- was originally from the sister island of Virgin Gorda. His service included being an early member of the Lions Club of Tortola and he was a Melvin Jones Fellow. Before he became a politician, the former Legislator and Minister taught for 34 years in many schools throughout the VI and contributed to developing the Virgin Islands’ human capital and, consequentially, the Territory’s development.
After serving in several schools in the Territory as Headteacher, including Jost van Dyke, in 1975 he became an Administrative Officer in the then Chief Minister’s Office and rose to the rank of Permanent Secretary.
He won two consecutive General Elections, in 1986 and 1990, on the VIP ticket, and represented the Eighth District in the then Legislative Council. He also had the privilege to act as Chief Minister in the absence of the late H. Lavity Stoutt on many occasions. Mr Walters was also a dedicated member of the East End Methodist Church.
On retirement, he was an avid gardener and also occupied himself in family businesses.
Mr Cyril Lewis Walters was awarded Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in 1986 for his contributions to the Public Service.
His legacy is carried on by his children: Bernadine Louis (Walters), Mc Lloyd Walters and Dr Cyrilyn Walters, who are accomplished in their fields as they continue to serve their homeland, the VI, with patriotic dedication.
Tributes by Acting Premier & Former Speaker
Acting Premier and Minister for Communications and Works Hon Kye M. Rymer (R5) was the first to pay tribute to the late legislator. In a public statement last evening the Acting Premier noted, “I have contacted the family of the late Honourable C. Lewis Walters to convey my deepest condolences on behalf of the Premier and Government of the Virgin Islands, and on my own behalf and that of my family, and the people of the Virgin Islands.”
The Acting Premier said: “I join the Virgin Islands community to pay tribute to his good works and sterling legacy.”
In an invited comment, former Speaker of the House of Assembly (HoA) Julian Willock said: “I wish to be associated with the sentiments of Honourable Rymer.”
Mr Willock noted that during his tenure as Speaker (2019-2022), “I got very close to Honourable Walters and his daughter Bernadine..we have lost a patriot.”
Mr Walters also has family in the United States Virgin Islands (USVI) and the USA.
The Management and Staff of Virgin Islands News Online express condolences to the family and other loved ones of the late Legislator Cyril Lewis Walters, MBE.
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9 Responses to “Former VI Legislator Cyril Lewis Walters MBE passes”
Much Love to all the Family Members
Hon Walters you will Live On
Rest easy out dear brother Walters we will see you again as you have ran the race
He was a quiet storm, brave educator, and a well-intentioned pubic spirit who elevated others including his own children (Bernadine and Mc Lloyd whom I’ve had the pleasure of personally knowing) to become good citizens; an inclusive educator who was instrumental in students lives counseling many of us and impacting some of our earlier academic development - me included.
Condolences to all, especially to his immediate family and friends.