Former Red Cross President and Horsford’s Building Center General Manager, Rupert Winston Tyrell, Mourned in St. Kitts and Nevis

Rupert Winston Tyrell, a pillar of the St. Kitts and Nevis community, has passed away, leaving behind a legacy of service and dedication that spanned nearly five decades. He was a stalwart in the hardware and construction industry, devoting 49 years of his life to the Horsford’s Group of Companies, rising to the position of General Manager of the Horsford’s Building Center. His commitment to excellence and unwavering work ethic earned him numerous accolades, including the prestigious International Golden Hammer Award, a testament to his exceptional contributions to the industry. Beyond his professional achievements, Tyrell was a dedicated humanitarian, significantly contributing to the St. Kitts-Nevis Red Cross Society, demonstrating his deep-seated commitment to serving his community and those in need.

Tyrell’s journey with Horsford’s began on October 1, 1973, shortly after his high school graduation. He embarked on a career path that would see him become an integral part of the company’s growth and success. His dedication and expertise were instrumental in establishing Horsford’s Building Center as a leading force in the local construction industry. Over the years, he honed his skills and knowledge, rising through the ranks to become a respected figure not only within the company but also within the wider business community. His unwavering commitment to customer service and his ability to anticipate and meet the evolving needs of the construction sector solidified his reputation as a true industry leader.

The culmination of Tyrell’s remarkable career arrived in 2022, a year marked by both celebration and transition. In recognition of his near half-century of service to the hardware and home improvement industry, he was bestowed with the prestigious International Golden Hammer Award. This accolade, presented by Robert Bass of Orgill Inc., the world’s largest independently owned hardware distributor, is considered Orgill’s highest honor, recognizing individuals who have demonstrated exceptional dedication and achievement throughout their careers. This recognition underscored Tyrell’s significant contribution to the industry, not just locally but on an international level. The award ceremony also served as a platform to acknowledge the Horsford’s Group of Companies’ overall excellence, with Tyrell accepting the Orgill Pinnacle Award for 2021 on their behalf, further highlighting his role in the company’s success.

Following the well-deserved recognition of his long and distinguished career, Tyrell officially retired from Horsford’s Building Center on September 30, 2022. His departure marked the end of an era for the company. The management and board of Horsford’s expressed their profound gratitude for his unwavering dedication and exemplary service, wishing him well in his retirement. While his departure marked a significant transition for the company, his legacy of hard work, commitment, and leadership continued to inspire those who had the privilege of working alongside him.

Beyond the realm of business, Tyrell’s commitment to service extended to the humanitarian sector. He played a significant role in the St. Kitts-Nevis Red Cross Society, dedicating his time and energy to supporting the organization’s mission of alleviating human suffering and promoting humanitarian values. His involvement with the Red Cross underscored his deep-seated belief in giving back to the community and providing assistance to those most vulnerable. His contributions to the Red Cross reflected his compassionate nature and his unwavering dedication to making a positive impact on the lives of others.

The passing of Rupert Winston Tyrell has left a profound void in the fabric of St. Kitts and Nevis society. His absence will be deeply felt not only by his family and friends but also by the countless individuals whose lives he touched throughout his career and community involvement. He will be remembered as a dedicated professional, a compassionate humanitarian, and a respected member of the community. His legacy of service, leadership, and commitment to excellence will continue to inspire generations to come. He leaves behind a rich tapestry of accomplishments that serve as a testament to his unwavering dedication to both his profession and his community. His memory will be cherished by all who knew him, and his contributions will continue to resonate throughout the islands of St. Kitts and Nevis.