In the Shakespearean murder tragedy of Julius Ceasar, the mourners were reminded that “we are not here to praise him, but to bury him!” With the recent and sudden passing of Mr Edward St George, the avalanche of persons both locally and abroad who flocked to Grand Bahama to pay their final respects, one must wonder “what manner of a man is this?” How is it possible that someone from humble beginnings in a distant land have such a profound influence on the Bahamas, and in particular Grand Bahama? Edward St George possessed a unique and rare ability to communicate effectively with a complete cross section of society. Whether it was a fisherman in West End, a Haitian in Pinder’s Point or a Bus Driver from High Rock, Edward St George operated and communicated with them in the same respectful manner as he did with Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher or one of his rich CEO executive friends from a Fortune 500 company.
It seems that everyone had an opinion of him, whether favourably or unfavourably to the extent that the mere mention of his name was often sufficient to draw a strong opinion. Was he a hero or villain? To many, he was simply a Robin Hood where his main agenda was to provide and help the poor. For others, he was God sent as for almost two decades, I have been informing the public that Edward St George and his wife Lady Henrietta defined social services on Grand Bahama. Oftentimes, it appeared as if they were doing more for the poor and disadvantaged on Grand Bahama than the politicians who at every opportunity would boast as to how much thy are doing.
However, Edward St George’s generosity did not stop at social services., but it penetrated every facet of Grand Bahama life. From the construction of the best sports complex in the Bahamas to an educational institution that bears his name that also boast an indoor high tech floor that is said to be the envy of the other schools in the Bahamas. I often met him at Regatta Sail Boat Racing competitions, being heavily involved in the Bahamian favourite pastimes. At one time he was the sponsor of the Class A boat “the Lucaya Lady.” In the world of Juunkanoo, the national culture of the Bahamas, it was Edward St Geogre’s participation at times that determined whether or not your group made the road or not. Trust me, I know what I am talking about! That’s why last summer when the Swingers were doing a street performance in front of “Our Lucaya”, Edward St George came and asked me to do him a special favour and perform at a wedding that was going on at Our Lucaya. Immediately, without hesitation, we complied knowing that such a small favour was only a token to our indebtedness to Edward St George.
According to Sir Albert Miller, when Edward St George got hold of an idea, he wouldn’t let it go until it was implemented. The very last two private meetings that I had with Edward St George centered around the construction of an additional tourist attraction at the harbour for the cruise ship passengers. Along with junkanoo veteran Anthony “Huck” Williams, preliminary drawings were made for the establishment of such a facility. Our next meeting would have been when he returned from Orlando after consulting with the experts at Disney on our recommendations. Regrettably our final meeting never took place. I sincerely hope that the new powers to be at the Grand Bahama Port Authority would give this attention to the Bahamas national culture the same enthusiastic attention.
I first met Edward St George and his family shortly after coming to Grand Bahama. Certainly, it was destiny that brought us together as it was at a Red Cross Charity event where he had donated a much need bus to assist with the “meals-on-wheels” program. From here it was on to the Children’s Home, Harmony House for Girls, the Disable Council where a monthly stypen was provided for us to take basic grocery items to the elderly and needy on Grand Bahama. There appeared to be no limit to Edward St George act of kindness. I often referred to him as “a good Samaritan”, who literally would meet a complete stranger on the streets needing medical assistance. Without inquiring even their name or political party affiliation, he would direct them to a medical facility with the simple instructions “tell the doctor to send me the bill”. Thanks to Edward St George, the vision of many people saved as he had sponsored a glycouma prevention program ﾠOn at least one occasion, Edward St George and myself toured a ghetto area of Freeport called “Daylight” (now demolished). Ordinarily, I would not visit this area on my own for the fear of being a crime victim. Edward St George walked through the area as if the welcome mat was put out for him. In each house he put his hands in his pocket and gave the inhabitant some money, leaving them with a broad smile on their faces. Later he informed me that this is something he does on a regular basis. He also indicated that as he is not a politician, he doesn’t seek any publicity for much oh his charity work.
Of course, there were many with a sharp dislike for Edward St George and often criticized his motives. Too often, I heard silly and stupid critism of Edward St George by persons with sometimes racist and extreme anti-foreign rhetoric. Yes he was a shrewd businessman with a Masters Law Degree from Oxford that he prudently exercised at times. His dedication was to the development of Grand Bahama. If their was one fault that he had, it was that he couldn’t say “no!”, even at the height of the Comission of Inquiry scandal in 1984 when his long time friend Sir Lynden Pindling had some difficulties, he didn’t hesitate and forked over a gift of over one million dollars. But, Edward St George who was often accused of political interference, was a practical person who would work with the government of the day. He had no difficulty attending an FNM rally one night praising Hubert Ingraham and the very next night attend a PLP rally praising Perry Christie. It seems as if Edward St George would cut a deal with the devil if Grand Bahama would benefit.
As a historical footnote, I would like to go way back to the General Strike of 1958 when Edward St George was the Magistrate. Labour leader (Sir) Randol Fawkes was the defendant, being charge with the offence of “sedition” or inciting a rebellion against the government. Fortunately, within the public interest, charges were dropped and the case was dismissed. However, since that day, Edward St George and Sir Randol Fawkes had not seen each other face to face, It wasn’t until just a few months before his passing when Sir Randol Fawkes was my Rotary guest that their paths crossed at the entrance of the Princess Hotel. After I introduced them, I will always remember that both of these great men had nothing but respect and pleasantries for each other.
Finally, it is a fair statement to say that Edward St George will be sadly missed. Can anyone replace him? Will others who are able to now step forward to safeguard the social services on Grand Bahama? ﾠWhat will happen to the Grand Bahama Port Authority? That is the million dollar question. Undoubtedly, it was Edward St George’s personal business connections and style that was the driving force behind the development of Grand Bahama. Some referred to him as the king of Freeport. “Yes the king is dead, but long live the king! “
Dr Leatendore Percentie, D.D.S
Boston, Massachusetts
January 8th, 2005
