VI’s centenarian William Industrious dies at 104
Some say that he was the second oldest in the Territory prior to his death on Saturday but this news site vividly recalls Mr Industrious being recognized as the oldest person of the VI last year on the occasion of the Senior Citizens’ Month.
On that occasion, it was Mr William Industrious who stole the show of the evening. Still with all his faculties in place, Mr Industrious had taken to the microphone to sing with a melodious voice for a much younger woman of the audience who he serenaded then called for his harmonica and did an intriguing rendition. He was recognized by the Premier as he celebrated his 103rd birthday April 27, 2013.
The ceremony to mark the official launch of Senior Citizens’ Month in the Virgin Islands was held on May 1, 2013 at the Moorings Mariner Inn with a special treat for senior citizens and the honouring and recognition of elderly men who made their mark in the fishing industry during their time.
His passing was brought to the attention of this news site by Representative of the Second District Honourable J. Alvin Christopher who said that the State is likely to play a key role in his final rites.
According to Hon Christopher Mr. Industrious was fisherman and farmer and up to the age of 103 he was very active, of a sound mind and he could have communicated at all levels even up until the end. “Some people [at that age] forget and don’t remember conversations. He maintained that sound mind until the end,” said Hon Christopher as he paid tribute.
Industrious was also remembered by Representative of the First District Honourable Andrew A. Fahie who in recognizing the Territory’s loss said, “I express my condolences to the many family and friends of the late Mr William Industrious. Until his death, he was [one of the] oldest BVIslanders alive in the BVI. We have lost more than just a friend but a rich part of our heritage who through his many years has acted as a bridge between the generations of old and the generations of present. He will be deeply missed. May his soul rest in peace. God was good to him and he was faithful to God. This was evident from the long life God granted him on this earth with us. May his legacy live on forever in our hearts.”
The funeral for the late Mr William Industrious will take place on Saturday September 13, 2014. Viewing will take from 9:30 am - 11:00 am to be followed immediately by the funeral service at the Cane Garden Bay Baptist Church. Interment will take place at the Cane Garden Bay Cemetery.
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