Matthew Farley dies

EDUCATOR MATTHEW FARLEY has passed away.

Minister of Education Ronald Jones was among those who paid tribute to the former principal of the Garrison now Graydon Sealy Secondary School on social media site Facebook.

“Matthew commanded his space with a dominance that left many astounded. We had many an epic battle over so many issues but never with disrespect. He was able to pioneer many things in education and kept a firm disciplinary hand on his students,” Jones wrote.

“It was my pleasure to have been able to approve the recommendation from the Ministry of Education that he be given a National Honour for his service to education. My condolences to [Althine], his wife, his three daughters, Pat and his other family members.”

Farley received the Barbados Service Star in last year’s Independence Honours.

An often controversial figure, he was in the spotlight for his tough disciplinary stance at the Paddock Road, St Michael School where he did not hesitate to send home students who breached the dress code.

Farley was also a talk show host on the Starcom Network and a trade unionist.

According to Jones, he attended St Anthony’s High School, Erdiston Teachers’ College and the University of the West Indies, rising from humble beginnings to make his mark on the national landscape. (BARBADOS NATION)

Matthew Farley (left) doing the champion dance at Graydon Sealy during a ceremony to honour sisters Shaquana (centre) and Shaniqua Quintyne. At right is current principal Beverley Bancroft. 

Matthew Farley was a strong supporter of the sports teams at Graydon Sealy.