The Government of Saint Lucia joins the people of Saint Lucia in mourning the death of the world renowned chef and philanthropist, Edward ‘Chef Harry’ Joseph, who passed away at the age of 78.
Chef Harry, as he is affectionately known, has touched many lives through his unflinching generosity. He has left an indelible mark on his friends and employees, as well as various organizations who have benefitted from his kindness and generosity. His former employees, many of whom were first introduced to the hotel sector through gaining employment at his establishment, continue to speak of him with deep respect, affection and admiration. For them and for many, he was a father, god-father and a friend.
During his lifetime, Chef Harry made an outstanding contribution to the Saint Lucia Hotel & Tourism Association (SLHTA), the tourism sector and the wider society. He was renowned for his excellent culinary skills and was the owner of one of Saint Lucia’s most talked about and frequented small hotels, the Green Parrot Hotel located at Morne Fortune. Many will remember him as the quintessential performer and entertainer, ever willing to please his admiring guests. As The Minister of Tourism, Heritage and Creative Industries said, “The whole tourism Industry will mourn the loss of Chef who was an icon in the sector and in many ways helped to shape and transform what St Lucia Tourism is all about.”
The interests of Chef Harry went beyond Tourism. He played a vital role in creating awareness about the island’s national bird, the Amazona Versi-Color, particularly at a time when it faced extinction.
Chef Harry is the first recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award for Entrepreneurial and Private Excellence from the Saint Lucia Industrial and Small Business Association (SLISBA), and was officially inducted as an Honorary Member of the Saint Lucia Hotel and Tourism Association in July 2011.
The Government of Saint Lucia named the road leading to his establishment as “Chef Harry Drive” in his honour. He was also a recipient of an MBE, awarded by Her Majesty the Queen.
The Government and people of Saint Lucia extend condolences to the family and friends of the late Edward ‘Chef Harry’ Joseph. According to Prime Minister Anthony, “The sorrow and anguish of Chef Harry’s family is felt and shared throughout the length and breadth of Saint Lucia. We have lost an exemplary son who gave freely for the development of others.”
May he rest in eternal peace!
Comments are closed.