Allan "Skill" Cole. Photo: Internet Source

In paying tribute to him on Tuesday evening, Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness said his legacy is etched in both Jamaica's sporting and cultural history, and he will forever be remembered as one of Jamaica’s finest.

"Skill’s brilliance on the football field made him one of the greatest of his generation, a player who carried the pride and passion of Jamaica every time he stepped onto the field. His influence, however, stretched far beyond sports. As tour manager for Bob Marley & the Wailers and co-writer of the timeless anthem War, he became part of a cultural movement that defined an era and carried Jamaica’s voice to the world," Holness said.

"Allan 'Skill' Cole lived a life of talent, courage, and impact," Holness added, while expressing deep sadness at Cole's death and extending condolences to his family, friends, and all who loved and admired him.

In the late ‘60s, Cole left Jamaica to play in the North American Soccer League with the Atlanta Chiefs, and in the early ‘70s in Brazil with Náutico. He also represented Jamaica at an international level, appearing in FIFA World Cup qualifying matches, and to this day is considered one of Jamaica’s most celebrated footballers.

At the peak of his powers, Cole was a midfield maestro local fans compared to Pele. He remains the Jamaica's youngest senior football international, donning national colours against a Brazilian team when he was only 15 years old.

The Kingston and St Andrew Municipal Corporation (KSAMC) has also joined joined in mourning Cole's death.

Mayor of Kingston Andrew Swaby reflected on Cole’s impact, saying, “Just last week, I had the privilege of speaking with Skill. As always, he shared words of encouragement and advice. That was who he was, always ready to guide and always ready to give of himself. His passing is a great loss to Kingston and to Jamaica.”

Mayor Swaby added, “Skill was a true son of Kingston. He carried our city and our country with pride wherever he went. His humility, generosity, and passion for people made him loved by many. I am grateful for the time I shared with him and the wisdom he freely gave. His memory will live on as an inspiration to generations to come.”