Today, it is with profound sadness that I pen these words in an attempt to capture the essence and vibrancy of the person that Ms. Julia Christopher was, a woman who wore many hats with distinction and dignity.

In her former years, she entered the teaching profession upon completion of her secondary education. Julia was assigned to the Althea Scatliffe Primary School and later at the BVI High School, now the Elmore Stoutt High School, a profession that afforded her the opportunity to mould and make a difference in the lives of children. She loved and enjoyed interacting with children to the point that she undertook storytelling on Saturday Mornings on ZBVI.

Upon leaving the teaching profession, she entered the wider Public Service as a Deputy Secretary within the Ministry of Communication and Works. It was here that she was exposed to the intricacies of the various departments under the Ministry. She worked very closely with the staff and remained friends with many even after exiting the Service.

Julia was a very self-confident, hardworking, and diligent employee who gave of herself, often going beyond the call of duty. Her versatility was such that when the Public Works Department needed a director, she slotted right in, undertaking to carry out many of the infrastructural projects that we enjoy today. Our road network was one of such projects, as well as the connectivity of our water and sewerage infrastructure.

Thereafter, she relocated to the Ministry of Communications and Works as the Permanent Secretary. She was a hands-on leader who was unafraid of getting her hands dirty, a woman who had no qualms about being in the field with her workers. This action in itself proved to be a source of inspiration and motivation for them, going the distance. This Ministry was one in which she excelled and one that she totally enjoyed.

Following a rotation of Permanent Secretaries, she was given responsibility for the Ministry of Education and Culture.

She was a disciplinarian as well as being conscientious and thorough. She was known for her integrity, a stickler for protocol, and was very knowledgeable in how processes should be carried out. She worked within the Ministry for many years before transferring to the Office of the Deputy Governor.

Julia’s legacy of service as a public servant came with its share of challenges and successes. Her resolve and tenacity took her through every situation. She remained positive and spoke well of her life as a public servant. She was a no-nonsense person who spoke her mind freely. 

Today, I can stand here and say that Ms. Julia Christopher served and served well. She was a woman who embodied the culture of the service with pride.

I was afforded the opportunity to be even closer to Ms. Christopher when we all became involved with the People Empowerment Party (PEP). She helped me a lot in those days, directing me along the path of my political career. Today, with pride, I can speak to the friendship that exists between her daughters Safiya and Siyeeda, and myself.

To you, her immediate family, heartfelt condolences are extended to you on behalf of my Government, the people of these beautiful Virgin Islands, my family, and I. May the fond memories that were created live on in the hearts of all whose lives she has touched.

May her soul rest in peace.

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