State Funeral Announced for Former Governor-General Sir Edmund Lawrence, Prompting National Half-Holiday

Paragraph 1: Announcing the Passing and State Funeral of Sir Edmund Wickham Lawrence

The Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis mourns the passing of a distinguished statesman, His Excellency Sir Edmund Wickham Lawrence, GCMG, OBE, CSM, JP, former Governor-General. Sir Edmund, who served as the third Governor-General from 2013 to 2015, passed away on September 7th, 2025. The Federal Cabinet has announced a State Funeral to honor his immense contributions to the nation’s development, scheduled for Thursday, October 2nd, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at the Wesley Methodist Church in Basseterre. This solemn occasion will provide an opportunity for the nation to collectively pay tribute to a life dedicated to public service and national progress.

Paragraph 2: National Observances to Honor Sir Edmund’s Legacy

The government has planned a series of national observances to mark Sir Edmund’s passing and allow citizens to express their respects. On the morning of the funeral, from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., Sir Edmund will lie in state at Government House, enabling the public to pay their final respects. To facilitate broader participation in the national mourning, Thursday, October 2nd, will be observed as a national half-holiday. This gesture underscores the significance of Sir Edmund’s contributions and encourages nationwide reflection on his legacy.

Paragraph 3: Opportunities for Public Condolences and Remembrance

Further avenues for expressing condolences and remembrance have been established. Official Books of Condolence are available for the public to sign at Government Headquarters on workdays from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. until the day of the funeral. Additionally, beginning Thursday, September 25th, Books of Condolence will also be accessible at Government House on workdays from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. These books provide a tangible means for citizens to express their grief and record their appreciation for Sir Edmund’s impact on their lives and the nation.

Paragraph 4: Celebrating a Life of Service and Visionary Leadership

Sir Edmund Lawrence’s legacy is deeply intertwined with the economic development of St. Kitts and Nevis. As the founding General Manager of the St. Kitts-Nevis-Anguilla National Bank, he played a pivotal role in shaping the Federation’s financial landscape and fostering economic resilience. His visionary leadership and dedication laid the groundwork for the nation’s financial stability and future growth. This period of his career stands as a testament to his foresight and commitment to building a strong foundation for his country’s prosperity.

Paragraph 5: A Governor-General Defined by Integrity and Dedication

Beyond his contributions to the financial sector, Sir Edmund’s tenure as Governor-General, although relatively brief, was marked by exemplary qualities. He served with integrity, wisdom, and an unwavering dedication to public service. These characteristics, which also guided his personal life, resonated throughout his time in office, leaving a lasting impression of a leader devoted to the well-being of his nation. His example serves as an inspiration to future generations of public servants.

Paragraph 6: National Bereavement and Expressions of Condolence

The passing of Sir Edmund Lawrence is not merely a personal loss for his family, but a national bereavement, signifying the departure of one of the Federation’s most respected statesmen. The government and people of St. Kitts and Nevis extend their deepest condolences to Lady Lawrence, his children, and the entire Lawrence family. As the nation prepares to bid farewell, they celebrate the life of a true son of the soil whose indelible contributions will continue to shape the future of St. Kitts and Nevis. Sir Edmund’s legacy of service, leadership, and unwavering dedication to his nation ensures his enduring place in the history of the Federation.