Saint Kitts and Nevis Opens Book of Condolence for Former Governor-General Sir Edmund Lawrence

The Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis has officially opened a Book of Condolence to honor the memory of its late former Governor-General, His Excellency Sir Edmund Wickham Lawrence GCMG OBE CSM JP, who passed away peacefully at his home on September 7, 2025, at the age of 93. The nation has united in mourning for a figure widely recognized for his significant contributions to the country's economic development and public service.

A Legacy of Service and Financial Vision

Born on February 14, 1932, Sir Edmund Lawrence was a distinguished economist who graduated from the University of London in 1966. His career was marked by pioneering efforts in the financial sector of Saint Kitts and Nevis. In 1970, he established the St Kitts-Nevis-Anguilla National Bank, which grew to become the largest local bank in the Eastern Caribbean. He further expanded the financial landscape by founding the National Bank Trust Company in 1972, the National Caribbean Insurance Company in 1973, and the St Kitts and Nevis Mortgage and Investment Company in 2001, collectively forming the National Bank Group of Companies. Sir Edmund also played a crucial role as a founding member of the Caribbean Association of Banks.

Sir Edmund served as the third Governor-General of Saint Kitts and Nevis from 2013 to 2015. During his tenure, he was noted for embodying 'integrity, wisdom, and a fervent commitment to the advancement of our country,' as stated by the government. His dedication to public service earned him numerous honors, including the Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 1999, the Companion of the Star of Merit (CSM) in 2009, and the Knight Grand Cross of the Order of St Michael and St George (GCMG) in 2013.

National Mourning and Tributes

In response to his passing, the Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis declared a seven-day period of national mourning, commencing Monday, September 8, 2025. During this period, the national flag is being flown at half-mast on all government buildings and official residences throughout the Federation. Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew expressed profound sadness, stating, 'We have lost a true statesman, but his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.' Similar sentiments were echoed by other national leaders, including the Premier of Nevis, the Hon. Mark Brantley, and former Prime Minister Dr. Denzil Douglas.

Sir Edmund is survived by his wife, Lady Hulda Lawrence, and their six children. The Lawrence family released a statement acknowledging that 'The loss of Sir Edmund Wickham Lawrence will be profoundly felt.'

Final Rites and Public Condolences

Official funeral arrangements have been announced, with a State Funeral scheduled for Thursday, October 2, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at the Wesley Methodist Church on Seaton Street, Basseterre. To allow citizens to participate in this national moment of reflection, October 2, 2025, will also be observed as a national half-holiday.

Prior to the funeral service, a Lying-in-State Ceremony will be held at Government House on the morning of October 2, 2025, from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., providing an opportunity for the public to pay their final respects. Additionally, an Online Condolence Book has been made available for friends, colleagues, dignitaries, and members of the public to offer messages of sympathy and remembrance.