As previously reported by our news centre, Mr Henry died on Monday, April 24, 2023, after reportedly suffering a heart attack while on vacation in Barbados.

In a statement issued on April 26, 2023, the VIP said it was saddened by the news of Henry’s passing, while extending sincere condolences to his entire family, particularly his wife Kaletha and sons Jean Paul and Nicholas.

Mr Henry, who was also a well-known taxi driver, was a strong VIP supporter and had even chaired one of its rallies during the 2023 political campaign season.

He previously served as Chairman of the BVI Scholarship Committee and was a regular voice on the International Morning Braff Show on Tola Radio VI.

“Sam was a well-known, and a much- loved person whose passion for these Virgin Islands inspired many. His patriotism should be appreciated, and his community activism lauded.

“Sam made such an effort and was committed to the people of this Territory by giving voice to so many critical issues like tourism and youth development,” the VIP stated.

'A dear friend & supporter'

The party’s Territorial Candidate, Zoe J. Walcott, in a ‘thank you’ message following the general elections, also reflected on memories of Henry, as she noted that his presence will be missed.

“The election cycle will be forever etched in my mind as I still reel over the loss of a dear friend and supporter, Sam Henry. His voice is one that continues to resonate in my ear as a voice of the Nation through the years. He will be missed,” Walcott noted.

Mr Henry, who was also a social and political commentator, was one of the persons at the forefront of resisting a United Kingdom (UK) takeover following the release of the Commission of Inquiry (CoI) Report back in May 2022.

Mr Julio S. Henry (right), who was also a social and political activist, was one of the persons at the forefront of resisting a United Kingdom (UK) takeover following the release of the Commission of Inquiry (CoI) Report back in May 2022.