The following are some of the tributes paid to by former Prime Minister Tom Adams on his death in March 1985.
Edward Seaga, Prime Minister of Jamaica:
“Tom Adams was a man deeply committed to his own people and the rest of the Caribbean. We in Jamaica feel his loss with particular sadness. He was with us less than two weeks ago for the meeting of the heads of government of the Commonwealth Caribbean and Canada. As always in these regional gatherings his command of detail, his hit, and his deep commitment to the region ensured the respect and admiration of his colleagues.” (CANA)
Rudolph Hinds, Consul General in New York:
“I was shocked and grieved to hear of the Prime Minister’s death. As a matter of fact, right throughout my office, all the members of staff are under shock.”
Michael Manley, former Jamaica prime minister, leader of the opposition People’s National Party:
“As Prime Minister he made an impact on Caribbean political affairs and in his own country he earned the respect of his people who now mourn his loss.” (CANA)
Herbert Blaize, Grenada’s Prime Minister:
“The news of the sudden death of Prime Minister Tom Adams of Barbados has taken us all off-guard. The people of Grenada would feel the loss of Adams because we know to what extent that man went to help us in our time of need in October 1983.
“I want the people of Barbados to know that Grenadians are with them in their sorrow over the death of Adams, who was 53.
“Cheer up because the Lord gives, and the Lord takes, and we believe that you would overcome. Adams had been very, very much Grenada’s friend.” (CANA)
Eugenia Charles, Prime Minister of Dominica:
“He stood head and shoulders … and has really been able to partake in all our discussions and be able to put forward the cause of the Caribbean in a very lucid and efficient way and he will be very difficult to replace.” (CANA)
Tom H. Anderson, United States ambassador to Barbados:
“Tom Adams was a proud leader of a proud people. None of who knew this articulate, committed and democratic leader could fail to be influenced and inspired by him. It was our honour and good fortune to have known him.” (AP)
Li Jie, Chinese Ambassador to Barbados:
“The untimely passing of the Prime Minister of Barbados Mr. J.M.G.M. “Tom” Adams means that the Chinese people have lost a great friend. Mr. Adams made a great contribution to the friendly relations which exist between the two countries.”
Shridath “Sonny” Ramphal:
“His colleagues and many friends throughout the Commonwealth will receive the news with profound regret and shock.”
* This article was first published March 12, 1985.