“Thank you. Thank You, Mr. Heyliger, for Your Service to Our Country,” Says Deputy Prime Minister Hanley on Hugh Heyliger’s Passing –
Source: Erasmus Williams BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS, JunNe 14 2026 – “Today, I simply say thank you. Thank you, Mr Heyliger, for your service to our country. Thank you for your leadership, your faith, your kindness, and your example. And most importantly, thank you for your personal support and encouragement throughout my life,” said St. Kitts […]
Black News 
Source: Erasmus Williams
BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS, JunNe 14 2026 – “Today, I simply say thank you. Thank you, Mr Heyliger, for your service to our country. Thank you for your leadership, your faith, your kindness, and your example. And most importantly, thank you for your personal support and encouragement throughout my life,” said St. Kitts and Nevis’ Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education, the Hon. Dr Geoffrey Hanley, in his tribute to the late former Deputy Prime Minister, Mr Hugh Heyliger.
Expressing his profound sadness and extending heartfelt condolences to the family of the late Hon. Hugh Heyliger—a distinguished son of the soil and a dedicated servant of the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis—Dr. Hanley noted, “Hon. Heyliger served our nation with dignity and purpose during his tenure as Deputy Prime Minister under the leadership of Sir Kennedy Simmonds. As the elected representative for Constituency No. 5, Sandy Point, he championed the interests of his constituents with conviction, humility, and unwavering dedication. His contributions to national development remain woven into the fabric of our political history.”
Dr. Hanley, who is also the Deputy Political Leader of the governing St. Kitts-Nevis Labour Party (SKNLP), said that beyond politics, Mr. Heyliger lived a life anchored in faith.
“As a Lay Pastor in the Methodist Church, he delivered sermons that were not only powerful but also deeply thought-provoking—messages that inspired reflection and challenged all who listened to pursue a higher purpose. His ministry touched countless lives and helped strengthen the spiritual foundation of our community,” said Dr. Hanley.
“On a personal note, Mr Heyliger’s home was like a second home to me. Although we belonged to different political parties, he never allowed politics to overshadow kindness, respect, or genuine friendship. His son, Brian—my classmate and best friend—opened the door to a friendship that extended to the entire family, and I was always welcomed with warmth and affection. Whenever our paths crossed, Mr Heyliger offered words of encouragement. Whether speaking about education, family, or personal growth, his guidance was sincere, thoughtful, and uplifting,” Dr Hanley recalled.
He also reflected on one of their last conversations at Valu Mart, “where he expressed how pleased he was with my progress and encouraged me to continue striving for excellence. I had no idea that those would be the final words of encouragement I would receive from him.”
“May the Lord grant the Heyliger family His perfect peace and abiding comfort. Though we mourn his passing, we rejoice in a life well lived and a faith well kept. May God continue to uphold and strengthen you in the days ahead. May he rest in eternal peace,” concluded Dr Hanley.
