I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of His Excellency Ambassador Vance W.
Amory, Nevis’ second and longest serving Premier, an astute statesman, brilliant son of
the soil, national stalwart and a true patriot. I join the nation in expressing, on behalf of the St. Kitts National Youth Parliament Association (SKNYPA), condolences to his wife,
children, extended family, and indeed his former constituents who he served selflessly.
Rising from humble beginnings, he displayed leadership, commitment, and patriotism in
every area of his life, from the cricket fields, to the classroom as a teacher and later
Principal all the way to his days at the Ministry of Finance. Thus, it is no surprise that these
qualities were all reflected when Mr. Amory rose to the Office of Premier, first in 1992
and then again in 2013. As a guiding force in the earlier years of Nevis’ post-independent
development, he championed the causes of equality and justice, overseeing several key
projects like the airport constructed in Newcastle. Premier Amory was never afraid of
standing for what he believed in and what was right, even if he was the sole voice in the
room.
For SKNYPA, Premier Amory was the unwavering supporter, cheering from the sidelines
at our Youth Parliament Sittings. We could always be sure of that familiar face watching
on from the gallery, smiling warmly and awaiting eagerly to share his favorite moments
with the participants. Every member can fondly attest to the engagements with the Premier
after the adjournment of each sitting and we can certainly say that these will be missed.
Mr. Amory indeed was a supporter of the young people of this federation as he saw us not
just as tomorrow’s leaders but as beacons of inspiration today who could drive change,
make a difference and impart perspectives and unique ideas.
We are proud of the work that he was able to accomplish in his several capacities here on
Earth most recently as an Ambassador in the Office of the Prime Minister. What stood out
to us most, however, was his deep commitment to Almighty God and his church, his
humility and his ability through charisma, to warm any room he entered, ready to share a
page of knowledge accumulated over his decades of leadership and service to the people
of this great federation.
In the words of the American author John Maxwell, “Leadership is not about titles,
positions or flowcharts. It is about one life influencing another.” SKNYPA is proud to say
that Premier Amory lived up to this quote in more ways than one, influencing not just his
constituents and Cabinet colleagues, but indeed an entire generation of Kittitians and
Nevisians.
May his soul rest in eternal peace.
