Official Funeral Arrangements Announced for His Excellency the late Sir Edmund Wickham Lawrence

The Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis mourns the passing of a distinguished statesman, His Excellency Sir Edmund Wickham Lawrence, GCMG, OBE, CSM, JP, the third Governor-General of the nation. Sir Edmund, who served as Governor-General from 2013 to 2015, passed away on September 7th, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of dedicated public service and impactful contributions to the nation’s development. In recognition of his extraordinary service, the Federal Cabinet has declared a State Funeral, a testament to the profound respect and admiration held for Sir Edmund throughout the Federation. This solemn occasion will provide the nation an opportunity to collectively honor a life deeply intertwined with the progress and prosperity of Saint Kitts and Nevis.

The State Funeral will be held at the Wesley Methodist Church on Seaton Street, Basseterre, on Thursday, October 2nd, 2025, commencing at 1:00 p.m. Preceding the funeral service, a Lying-in-State ceremony will be held at Government House from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. This will afford members of the public a final opportunity to pay their respects to the late Governor-General and reflect on his significant contributions to the nation. To facilitate broader participation in the national mourning, the Federal Cabinet has also declared a national half-holiday for October 2nd, 2025. This will allow citizens across the Federation to join in honoring Sir Edmund’s memory and participate in the State Funeral proceedings.

Opportunities for the public to express their condolences have been arranged through official Books of Condolence. These books will be available for signing at Government Headquarters on weekdays between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. until the day of the funeral. Additionally, a Book of Condolence will be available at Government House from Thursday, September 25th, 2025, on weekdays between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., also concluding on the day of the funeral. These Books of Condolence will serve as a lasting testament to the esteem in which Sir Edmund was held by the people of Saint Kitts and Nevis.

Sir Edmund Wickham Lawrence’s indelible mark on the nation’s history extends beyond his tenure as Governor-General. He was a pioneering figure in the economic development of Saint Kitts and Nevis, most notably as the founding General Manager of the St. Kitts-Nevis-Anguilla National Bank. His visionary leadership in this pivotal role laid the groundwork for the modern financial sector of the country, contributing significantly to its economic stability and growth. Throughout his career, Sir Edmund exemplified integrity, wisdom, and an unwavering dedication to public service, qualities that continued to characterize his time as Governor-General.

The life and legacy of Sir Edmund Wickham Lawrence are deeply interwoven with the fabric of the nation. His contributions, extending from the financial sector to the highest office of the land, reflect a life devoted to the betterment of Saint Kitts and Nevis. As the nation prepares to bid farewell, the government and the people acknowledge the profound impact of his service and leadership. His memory will undoubtedly serve as an inspiration for future generations to contribute to the continued progress and prosperity of the Federation.

The government and the people of St. Christopher and Nevis extend their deepest condolences to Lady Lawrence, his wife, his children, and the entire Lawrence family during this time of national mourning. The nation stands united in grief, recognizing the profound loss of a distinguished son of the soil. As the flag flies at half-mast, the nation reflects on the profound legacy of Sir Edmund, a life dedicated to service and marked by enduring contributions that have shaped the very essence of Saint Kitts and Nevis. May his soul rest in eternal peace.