By Sue-Ann Wayow
LIFE-long West Indies cricket fan, fierce champion of the Caribbean, talented showman and a major commercial partner.
These were just some of the words used to describe Chairman of Sandals International Resorts, Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart, who passed away on Monday at age 79 in Miami, Florida.
In an announcement written by Butch’s son and Sandal’s Chief Executive Officer Adam Stewart said the news of his father’s death was almost unbelievable since he continued to be forward thinking and involved.
He added that his father preferred to keep a very recent health diagnosis private, a wish that was respected.
The elder Stewart was the recipient of Jamaica’s highest national distinctions the Order of Jamaica, and Commander of the Order of Distinction. He was also awarded several honorary degrees and international awards.
“The Hon Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart OJ, a distinction he was so proud of, was a gifted entrepreneur.
“He was a marketing genius and talented showman, but those who knew him best recognised that he was a dreamer who could dream bigger and better than anyone.
“It was often said ‘the best thing for people around him to do is be dream catchers.’ That’s why he always credited his success to the incredible team around him, why he listened intently when it came to creating innovative things that would excite and delight our guests, and why it is so important that I remind you today of all days, that we will all continue to be his dream catchers.”
Stewart (A) said his father’s legacy will live on.
He said, “A singular personality and an unstoppable force who revelled in defying the odds, exceeding expectations and whose passion for his family was matched only by the people and possibility of the Caribbean, for whom he was a fierce champion.”
And in a release, Cricket West Indies (CWI) stated, “Stewart was a stalwart of the Caribbean society, an iconic figure across the region, and a true supporter of the game of cricket at all levels.
CWI’s President Ricky Skerritt said, “CWI mourns the passing of The Honourable Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart OJ and sends our sincere condolences to his family. He was a life-long West Indies cricket fan, fierce champion of the Caribbean and a major commercial partner. He was also a true West Indian legend in his own right. He established unique and very successful Caribbean brands and created many opportunities for young men and women across this region to grow.”
Those wishing to share memories, personal stories and photos on the impact of Gordon “Butch’ Stewart can send an email to AllThatsGood@sandals.com.
