Funeral Booklet for the late Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal, OBE, Member Emeritus

STATE FUNERAL

for

Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal, OBE Member Emeritus

15 December, 1933 - 11th November, 2019 th

Multipurpose Sports Complex Road Town, Tortola Wednesday, 11th December, 2019 10:30 a.m.

Funeral Procession Wednesday, 11th December, 2019 9:00 a.m.

Service 10:30 a.m.

Officiating Ministers Bishop Charles A. Seaton Reverend Franklyn Manners

Organists Ms. Annjel Flax Mr. Cedric Dawson Honourable Andrew A. Fahie

Interment O’Neal Burial Ground Valley, Virgin Gorda

Order of Procession Parking lot of Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal Administration Complex to the Multipurpose Sports Complex

Preceding the Hearse Royal Virgin Islands Police Force Sweep Car Police Band Police Honour Guard Police Flag Party

Flanking the Hearse Pallbearers Members of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force

Immediately behind the Hearse Family Members

Official Mourners His Excellency the Governor Members of the Fourth House of Assembly Former Members of the House of Assembly Deputy Governor Senior Managers Uniformed Organisations Students from schools across the Territory Members of the Public

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Biography

H

onourable Ralph Telford O’Neal, the ninth of ten children, was born on 15th December 1933 to Otto and Esther O’Neal on the beautiful island of Virgin Gorda. He attended the St. Mary’s Anglican Elementary School on Virgin Gorda and passed the Standard Seven Examination in 1946 at age 13 thus receiving the Standard Seven Certificate, the highest qualification attainable in the Territory. He later attended the St. Kitts Nevis Grammar School where he obtained the Cambridge School Certificate. He returned to the Territory after graduating from that school and joined the Teaching Service at the age of 18 at the East End Methodist Elementary School. He also taught for a short time at the Road Town Elementary School. Shortly after beginning his teaching career he received the clarion call to the Headmastership of the North Sound Methodist Elementary school, a position he held for four years. Under his tutelage, the students from North Sound were successful in passing the Standard Seven Examination, the School Leaving Examination of that time, for the first time. While working in the school he helped to solve the water shortage at the school by using the meagre resources available and the assistance of the community to build the first cistern in North Sound.

In 1956 Honourable O’Neal joined the British Virgin Islands Civil Service as a Junior Administrative Officer and two years later in 1958 he became the second Clerk to the Legislative Council succeeding Mr. Henry O. Creque.

He served in this position for four years before being appointed Administrative Secretary to the Administrator. He subsequently served as Administrative Secretary to the Member for Trade and Production, Honourable Howard R. Penn, and Administrative Secretary to the Chief Minister, Honourable H. Lavity Stoutt. During his years in the Civil Service he attended the University of the West Indies for a two-month course in Public Administration at Trinity College, Oxford University where he earned the Diploma in Government and Political Science and the Diploma in Economic Development. In later years he specialized in the study of the Development of Small Countries. During the years he served as teacher and civil servant he rendered sterling service to the people of Virgin Gorda as a messenger when they could not travel to Tortola. He was also an advisor and counselor to hundreds of persons who needed help in managing personal affairs.

In 1969 he left the Civil Service and started his own business. He became Managing Director of Ralph O’Neal Business Services Ltd., Wickhams Cay Service Station Ltd., O’Neal Gases Ltd, and Chrisneal Ltd. While serving as a businessman, he was inspired to enter politics and represent his people in the Legislature. He made an unsuccessful bid for the Seventh District representative in 1971 but he was not discouraged by that defeat. In 1975 he successfully contested the seat in the general election and began his long political career. In 1979 the electoral districts were revised and Virgin Gorda and Anegada became the Ninth District. He contested the seat for the Ninth District in the general election and won thus continuing his political career until his retirement in 2015.

Very early in his political career he demonstrated his political leadership skills when in 1977 he opposed the Chief Minister’s attempt to grant a licence to mine sand on Anegada. He led the debate opposing the move and the licence was withdrawn. Again in 1979 during the Second and Third readings of the Social Security Bill some of the Government members refused to support the mover of the Bill, The Opposition led by Hon R. T. O’Neal joined with the Government and the Bill was passed. In December 1979 the Constitution was amended to provide for a fourth minister. He joined the Virgin Islands Party to become that fourth Minister for Social Services and held that position until 1983.

As Minister for Social Services he led the charge to add the subject of culture to a portfolio of a minister and renamed the Department of Education the Department of Education and Culture. He then supported the Department in a consultancy by Mr Neville Dawes to develop the first policy for Culture and establish a Unit for Culture in the new Department of Education and Culture. This was the genesis of the Department of Culture. As Minister with the responsibility for Education he sought to expand educational opportunities for Virgin Islanders. His efforts to expand secondary education to Virgin Gorda met with stiff resistance from the British Development Division in Barbados.

The British representatives indicated emphatically that they were only interested in building a Primary School on Virgin Gorda and they were not financing accommodation for secondary education. Honourable R.T. O’Neal quietly found a way to use a section of the newly built Bregado Flax Primary School to accommodate the first three forms of the Secondary School. It was this decision which resulted in the name Bregado Flax Educational Centre instead of Bregado Flax Primary School. He also expanded secondary education to Anegada. He was also supportive of 2

the department of Education and Culture’s proposal to introduce instrumental music in the High School curriculum.

That programme has produced its own teachers and excellent musicians. In his address on the opening of Education Week, 7th March 1982 he said: I say today to the children and young people of this Territory there is hopeand no one is too young or too small to understand that we must translate that hope into action. It is no longer necessary to have to leave these islands just to find a job; it is no longer necessary to leave these islands to complete high school. In order that this hope would be translated into action we all together must have trust and confidence in our country and be proud of it, cherish it and be prepared to protect it against anyone who would even speak evil of our land; and be prepared at all times to get from our midst those who by their actions would seek to destroy what we are trying to preserve, and to make no apology for doing so. So, I would like you to take this message back to those who could not come and in your schools and amongst yourselves begin to talk and plan about what you will be doing to make our islands better.

In 1986 he was appointed Leader of the Opposition and resigned from that position in March 1988 to take up the post of Deputy Chief Minister and Minister for Natural Resources and Labour vacated by Hon Omar Hodge. He continued in that position until he resigned in November 1994. In February 1995 he retained his seat in the general election as representative for the Ninth District and was reappointed Deputy Chief Minister, and Minister for Health, Education and Welfare. After the sudden death of Chief Minister, H. Lavity Stoutt, he was appointed Chief Minister in May of that year and also became Leader of the Virgin Islands Party. In 1999 he was re-elected and re-appointed as Chief Minister until 2003. During this term as Chief Minister in 2000 he led the Territory in the celebration of 50 years- the Golden Jubilee- of the Restoration of the Legislative Council in 1950. This was an event of great historical importance. It enabled the younger generations who may only have heard about legislators such as Honourable Theodolph Faulkner, Honourable Howard Penn, Honourable Glanville Fonseca, Honourable Brudnell Bruce, and Honourable Carlton de Castro, to get a historical perspective of their involvement in the struggles for the restoration of the Legislative Council. In 2003 Honourable R. T. O’Neal was appointed Leader of the Opposition which he held until 2007. After retaining his seat in the general election of that year he was appointed the first Premier of the Virgin Islands and served in that position until 2011. He retained his seat in the general election in 2011 but his Party lost the Government and he was again appointed Leader of the Opposition and served in that position until 2015 when he demitted the position.

Under his leadership many changes took place in the development of the Territory. In addition to those mentioned earlier the following could be added: • The steady growth of the financial services sector resulting in the establishment of a Financial Services Department and a Commercial Registry separate from the High Court Registry; • The establishment of several statutory bodies - BVI Electricity Corporation, BVI Social Security Board, BVI Ports Authority, BVI Tourist Board and the BVI Development Bank (now National Bank of the Virgin Islands) - received his attention; • He was also involved in the construction of the Central Administration Complex in Road Town and the Administration Buildings on Virgin Gorda, Anegada, and Jost Van Dyke.

• He was instrumental in the construction of a High Court of Justice and the appointments of two resident judges in the Territory.

• Honourable R. T O’Neal was also committed to the extension of the Beef Island International Airport and renaming it the Terrance B. International Airport in honour of the late Terrance B. Lettsome, a dedicated legislator.

• He was influential in increasing the number of elected members of the Legislative Council from nine to 13, including four members elected at-large.

• He was enthusiastic about the development of a first-class telecommunication system both internal and external and supported the establishment of the same.

• The establishment and development of an Office of Disaster Preparedness was another of the projects that received his unwavering support. Today it plays a vital role in preparing people to be ready for disasters.

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On Anegada some of his initiatives included the development of the Anegada Airport, construction of the health clinic, establishment of the fire station and Public Works sub-office, institution of the water system, introduction of 24-hour electricity, and extensive work on the jetty at Setting Point.

On Virgin Gorda in addition to those projects mentioned earlier, he was instrumental in the construction of a new North Sound Health Clinic, the North Sound Post Office, the Reception Centre at Gun Creek, the Iris O’Neal Health Clinic, a Centre for the H. Lavity Stoutt Community College, the extension of the passenger dock, improvements to the Baths and many more. Honourable Ralph Telford O’Neal’s life “gave flesh to the deep goodness of humanity.”

He has been aptly described as a national resource. He was gifted with a fertile memory and could enlighten anyone on almost any aspect of local history. As an elder of the Virgin Islands community, he has witnessed its social and economic progress from struggling agrarian activities to a relatively divesified economy that is prospering. More importantly, as you would have seen, he has been an active participant in most of the territorial developments through his roles as teacher, headmaster, civil servant, community volunteer and legislator.

Honourable R. T. O’Neal was a humanitarian who made significant contributions to the British Virgin Islands. He was a founding member of the Rotary Club of Tortola which was established in 1968 and also served as President. He was honoured as a Paul Harris Fellow three times. He was the first Director of the BVI Branch of the British Red Cross Society and served his people in this capacity for 15 years. His support for programmes for youth improvement has been demonstrated through dedicated service as exemplified by his association with Kids and the Sea Programme from its inception until he was unable to do so due to failing health. He was a great cricketer and a lover of athletics.

He demonstrated his support for sports through his support for the A. O. Shirley Recreation Ground, the MultiPurpose Sports Complex and various other sports facilities throughout the Territory. He represented the British Virgin Islands on the Island Cricket Team on many occasions and served as president of the Cricket Association for 17 years.

His hobbies included reading, studying international affairs and local history, and visiting the elderly and shut-in.

In 1975 Honourable R. T. O’Neal was awarded the Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (OBE), for his service to the community as a teacher and civil servant. He was a Justice of the Peace, a Commissioner of Oaths, and a Notary Public. He also received a number of other honours from organisations and churches including: National Parks Trust; BVI Farmers Association; Lions Club of Tortola; Anegada Progressive League of New York; Citizens of Virgin Gorda; Citizens of Anegada; Fishermen Cooperative of Virgin Gorda; The North Sound Methodist Church; The Zion Hill Methodist Church; St. Mary’s Episcopal Church; New Life Baptist Church; New Testament Church of God; and Upper Room Victory Church.

He was the father of two daughters and one son by a former marriage to the late Viola George of North Sound, and one daughter by a second marriage to the former Edris Christopher, now Rev Edris O’Neal. He was a member of the Methodist Church, a member of the Men’s Fellowship, a former choir member and lay preacher. He had a deep abiding faith in God and this was supported by his wife Rev. Edris O’Neal who stood by him throughout his career as a politician and shared his concerns, frustrations, and successes. He drew his strength from his strong faith in God which had been the bedrock of his life. He was a faithful son of the soil and has left his footprints in the sands of time as echoed in the words of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow: Kind hearts are the gardens, Kind thoughts are the roots, Kind words are the flowers, Kind deeds are the fruits.

Take care of your garden And keep out the weeds, Fill it with sunshine, kind words, and kind deeds.

- Written by Dr. Charles Wheatley

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Message to Fellow Public Officers I welcome this opportunity to contribute to the inaugural issue of World Class - A Public Service Magazine for the British Virgin Islands, a publication I am confident will help to raise the profile of this organisation.

To achieve a world class public service will require world class public officers.

Therefore, public officers must take advantage of educational opportunities, locally and overseas, to be able to effectively participate in the development of a world class and modernised public service. In-service training courses offered by the Training Division and the Project Support Services Unit of the Ministry of Finance are just two examples of professional development opportunities which are available to public servants throughout the year. Courses are also available at the H. Lavity Stoutt Community College to enhance the training of public servants. Additionally, the Government’s scholarship programme encourages formal academic training in priority areas complementary to the needs of the Government and the wider Territory.

I reflect on the theme for Public Service Week 2009 which was “Working Towards a ‘World Class’ Public Service through Continuous Change”. This continuous change, however, must not only be evident in public officers but the public service as well.

That is why I firmly believe that a world class service can in part be achieved through a public service reform programme. However, all public officers are key players in reform as such initiatives are critical to our Territory’s future and financial well-being.

A world class public service also calls for bold steps and in the coining months a government web portal, the continued implementation of cost-cutting measures, an e-Government programme and an Efficiency, Innovate and Save initiative are just a few examples which will help to propel the British Virgin Islands Public Service to another plateau. To be a world class public service, strategic planning must also become the norm and senior public servants should not be afraid to recommend changes where necessary.

Since I joined the Civil Service in 1956, the transformation of the Public Service has been phenomenal. We have witnessed a series of technological advancements from typewriters to computers, letter writing to electronic mail, landlines to mobile telephones and cash to electronic payments for government services. These are all excellent examples of the tools we now employ to enhance our daily performance in the quest to becoming a world class public service. Without question, if we are to keep pace with the rest of the world, we must adopt a modern approach in the delivery of professional services to the public we serve.

Reflective of the modernisation of the public service is also evident in the change of job titles from headmaster to principal, cleaner to custodian, police constable to police officer, chief secretary to deputy governor, administrator to governor and many more. These changes, you would agree, make for a more favourable and modern-day thinking public service.

Public service is a noble calling despite criticisms about delayed upward mobility and low salaries. Throughout the public service there are many officers who have answered this noble call and as such contribute to the overall development of our Territory and consistently go that extra mile beyond the call of duty. They can be found in every government ministry, every department, unit and every statutory body and I salute them.

I answered this noble call in 1951, first as a certified teacher, and I am grateful for the opportunity to have worked at various levels of the Public Service including as Clerk of the Legislative Council; Clerk of the Executive Council; Administrative 5

Secretary, Trade and Production; Chief Education Officer; Treasurer, Labour Commissioner, Telecommunications Officer and Secretary to Government. I have since had the opportunity to serve the public on a wider scale as a Minister with various portfolios and now the Premier of our Territory.

During my time in the Civil Service I benefitted greatly from the mentorship of the late Mr. Henry 0. Creque who taught me how to deal with people and instilled in me the value of giving good service to the public who were ultimately the bosses. I therefore recommend that each public officer find a mentor.

Striving for excellence must be the hallmark for every public officer. I therefore encourage public officers to rise to the challenge of ensuring that you contribute to a modem public service by becoming innovative leaders and thinkers and, more importantly, refusing to accept mediocrity in any form. Courtesy, good manners, self- respect and respect for others must be the guiding virtues for all public servants. Achieving world class status will also be determined by the daily pursuit of a modern approach to executing duties, interacting with colleagues and serving the public.

As you flip through the pages of this first issue, I am confident that the articles will give you a clearer insight and a better appreciation of the public service. I commend the Deputy Governor’s Office for yet another timely initiative which will bring attention to the work of the Public Service, while educating others about the strides taken over the years to becoming world class.

Ralph T. O’Neal, OBE Premier and Minister of Finance (Article extracted from World Class - A Public Service Leadership Magazine, Summer 2011)

Former Members of the Legislative Council (l-r) H. Lavity Stoutt, Ralph T. O’Neal, OBE, Terrance B. Lettsome and Alban Anthony

Premier O’Neal hosts luncheon with Sir James Mitchell of St Vincent and the Grenadines

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Swearing-in of the first Premier of the Virgin Islands

First Sitting of the First Cabinet of the Virgin Islands

Survivors Wife

Sister

Reverend Edris O’Neal, OBE

Garna Campbell

Daughters

Sister-in-Law

Esther Wheatley Jacqui O’Neal-Privitere Abigail O’Neal

Son

Ralph T. O’Neal Jr.

Son-in-Law

Honourable Vincent O. Wheatley Deputy Premier and Minister for Natural Resources, Labour and Immigration

Grandchildren

Dr. Amber Wheatley Xyrah Wheatley Alexander Caffery

Essie Maduro

Brothers-in-Law

Alfred Christopher Donald Christopher Raphael Christopher Carl Christopher

Foster Sons

Ivor Fraser Weston Blackmore Honourable Carvin Malone

Children and Grandchildren of his deceased siblings Waldo O’Neal Warren O’Neal VanRhyne O’Neal Liston O’Neal Elsa Roye Flavie Gunthorpe

His colleagues in and out of Office All the people of the Ninth District A host of godchildren and students Many friends throughout the Territory The entire BVI community as a whole

Pall Bearers

Franklyn (Rasta) Penn

Members of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force

Foster Daughter

Honourary Pall Bearers

Minister for Health and Social Development

Shermaine Williams

Honourable Carvin Malone Vincent O’Neal Otto Emerson O’Neal Carl Christopher Lemuel “Chi Chi“ Smith Ivor Fraser Weston Blackmore Franklyn (Rasta) Penn Eustace Claxton

Caregiver

Deniese Gardener

“Good Better Best Never Let It Rest” 7

Order of Service Hymn: Crown Him Lord of All............................................................................................................................ Led by Songsters 1. All hail the power of Jesus’ name Let Angels prostrate fall Bring forth the royal diadem And Crown Him Lord of All

3. Ye seed of Israel’s chosen race Ye ransomed from the fall; Hail him who saves you b His grace And Crown Him Lord of al

5. Let every tribe and every tongue Before him prostrate fall And shout in universal song The crowned Lord of all

2. Crown Him, ye martyrs of our God Who from his altar call; Extol Him in whose path ye trod And Crown Him Lord of All

4. Sinners whose love can ne’er forget The wormwood and the gall; Go spread your trophies at His feet And crown him Lord of all.

6. O that with yonder sacred throng We at his feet ma fall Join in the everlasting And crown Him Lord of all

Opening Sentences...............................................................................................................................................................Minister Hymn: Through all the Changing Seasons of Life.................................................................................................Congregation 1. Through all the changing scenes of life, In trouble and in Joy, The praises of my God shall still My heart and tongue employ.

3. O magnify the Lord with me, With me exalt his name; When in distress to Him I called, He to my rescue came.

5. O make but trial of His love; Experience will decide How blessed they are, and only they, Who in His truth confide.

2. Of his deliverance I will boast, Till all that are distressed From my example comfort take, And charm their griefs to rest.

4.The hosts of God encamp around The dwellings of the just; Deliverance He affords to all Who on His succour trust.

6. Fear Him, ye saints, and you will then Have nothing else to fear; Make you His service your delight, He’ll make your wants his care.

Prayer........................................................................................................................................................................................ Minister

The Declaration...................................................................................................................................................................... Minister

Reflections...........................................Honourable Carvin Malone, Mrs. Esther O’Neal-Wheatley and Ms. Abigail O’Neal

Presentation ....................................................................................................................................................... Virgin Islands Party

Tribute............................................................................................................................... Honourable Andrew A. Fahie, Premier Tribute................................................................. Honourable Albert Bryan Jr., Governor of the United States Virgin Islands Tribute.................................................................................................................................................................... Rev. Erslin Browne 8

Hymn: Ye Holy Angels Bright...................................................................................................................................Congregation 1. Ye holy Angels Bright Who wait at God’s right hand, Or through the realms of light Fly at your Lord’s command, Assis our song, for else the theme Too high doth seem for mortal tongue.

3. Ye saints, who toil below Adore your heavenly King And onward a ye go Some joyful anthem sing, Take what he gives and praise Him still Through good or ill, whoever lives.

2. Ye blessed souls at rest, Who ran this earthly race, And now, from sin released, Behold the Saviour’s face God’s praises sound, As in His sight with sweet delight Ye do abound.

4. My soul, bear thou thy part Triumph in God above; And with a well-tuned heart Sing thou the songs of love Let all thy days till life shall end What-e’er he sends be filled with praise.

Scripture Reading: Psalms 91:1-8...........................................................His Excellency the Governor, Mr. Augustus Jaspert 91 He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.

2. I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust.

3. Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, and from the noisome pestilence.

4. He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler.

5. Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day; 6. Nor for the pestilence that walketh in darkness; nor for the destruction that wasteth at noonday.

7. A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand; but it shall not come nigh thee.

8. Only with thine eyes shalt thou behold and see the reward of the wicked.

Selection......................................................................................................................................................................................Choir Epistle: Romans 8: 31-39........................................................................................................................... Jacqui O’Neal-Privitere 31. What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?

32. He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?

33. Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God’s elect?

It is God that justifieth.

34. Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.

35. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?

36. As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.

37. Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.

38. For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, 39. Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

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Hymn: It is Well With my Soul..................................................................................................................................Congregation 1.

When peace like a river, attendeth my way, When sorrows like sea-billows, roll Whatever my lot, thou hast taught me to say It is well, it is well with my soul.

It is well with my soul It is well, it is well with my soul 2.

Though Satan should buffet, though trial should come Let this best assurance control, That Christ hath regarded my helpless estate, And hath shed His own blood for my soul.

3.

My sin – oh, the bliss of this glorious thought!

My sin - not in part but the whole, Is nailed to His cross, and I bear it no more Praise the Lord, Praise the Lord, Oh my soul.

4.

For me be it Christ, be t Christ hence to live!

If Jordan above me shall roll, No pang shall be mine, for in death as in life Thou wilt whisper Thy peace to my soul.

5.

But Lord, “tis for Thee, for Thy coming we wait, The sky, not the grave, is our goal: Oh, rump of the Angel! Oh, voice of the Lord!

Blessed hope! Blessed rest, Oh my soul.

Gospel Reading: John 14:1-6, 27....................................................... Honourable Marlon Penn, Leader of the Opposition 14 Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.

2. In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.

3. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.

4. And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know.

5. Thomas saith unto him, Lord, we know not whither thou goest; and how can we know the way?

6. Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.

27. Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

Sermon......................................................................................................................................................Bishop Charles A. Seaton Apostles Creed.............................................................................................................................................................Congregation I believe in God the Father Almighty, maker of heaven and earth; And in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried; he descended to the dead.

On the third day he rose again; he ascended into heaven,

is seated at the right hand of the Father, and will come again to judge the living and the dead.

I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body and the life everlasting.

Amen.

Prayer of Thanksgiving.........................................................................................................................................................Minister Commendation......................................................................................................................................................................Minister Hymn: The Lords Prayer in Song........................................................................................................................................Minister 10

Remarks.................................................................Honourable Vincent O. Wheatley, Representative for the Ninth District The Hallelujah Chorus......................................................................................................................................... Chior (All Stand) Benediction ............................................................................................................................................................................Minister *Recessional Hymn: Blessed Assurance..............................................................................................................................Clergy

...................................................................................................................................................Casket flanked by Pallbearers

..........................................................................................................................................................................Family Mourners

........................................................................................................................................................................Official Mourners * Please remain in your seats until the Official Mourning Party leaves.

1.

Blessed Assurance, Jesus is mine: O what a foretaste of glory divine!

Heir of salvation, purchase of God: Born of His Spirit, washed in His blood

This is my story, this is my song, Praising my Saviour, all the day long.

2.

Perfect submission, perfect delight, Visions of rapture burst on my sight; Angels descending, bring from above Echoes of mercy, whispers of love

3.

Perfect submission, all is at rest, I in my Saviour am happy and blest; Watching and waiting, looking above, Filled with His goodness, lost in His love.

Funeral Service will continue with burial at the O’Neal Burial Ground in Valley, Virgin Gorda

Heads of State Meeting of the OECS Authority

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Graveside Ceremony Presentation of Territorial Flag to Rev. Edris O’Neal............................. Deputy Commissioner of Police, Alwin James Committal and Prayers........................................................................................................................................................Minister Laying of Wreaths.................................................................................................................................Daughter, Abigail O’Neal

His Excellency the Governor, Mr. Augustus J. U. Jaspert

Premier, Honourable Andrew A. Fahie

Chief Justice, Honourable Dame Janice Pereira

Leader of the Opposition, Honourable Marlon Penn Hymn............................................................................................................................................................Will Your Anchor Hold 1.

Will your anchor hold in the storms of life, When the clouds unfold their wings of strife?

When the strong tides lift, and the cables strain, Will your anchor drift or firm remain?

2.

We have an anchor that keeps the soul Stedfast and sure while the billows roll, Fastened to the Rock which cannot move, Grounded firm and deep in the Savior’s love.

3.

It is safely moored, ’twill the storm withstand, For ’tis well secured by the Savior’s hand; And the cables passed from His heart to mine, Can defy the blast, through strength divine.

4.

It will firmly hold in the straits of fear, When the breakers have told the reef is near; Though the tempest rave and the wild winds blow, Not an angry wave shall our bark o’erflow.

5.

It will surely hold in the floods of death, When the waters cold chill our latest breath; On the rising tide it can never fail, While our hopes abide within the veil.

Hymn............................................................................................................................................. I Will Sing the Wondrous Story 1.

I will sing the wondrous story Of the Christ Who died for me; How He left His home in glory For the cross of Calvary.

Refrain: Yes, I’ll sing the wondrous story Of the Christ Who died for me, Sing it with the saints in glory, Gathered by the crystal sea.

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2.

I was lost, but Jesus found me, Found the sheep that went astray, Threw His loving arms around me, Drew me back into His way.

4.

Days of darkness still come o’er me, Sorrow’s path I often tread, But His presence still is with me;

By His guiding hand I’m led.

3.

I was bruised, but Jesus healed me, Faint was I from many a fall, Sight was gone, and fears possessed me, But He freed me from them all.

5.

He will keep me till the river Rolls its waters at my feet; Then He’ll bear me safely over, Where the loved ones I shall meet.

Hymn..........................................................................................................................................................................Jesus Loves Me 1.

I am so glad that our Father in heav’n Tells of His love in the Book He has giv’n; Wonderful things in the Bible I see This is the dearest, that Jesus loves me.

Refrain: I am so glad that Jesus loves me, Jesus loves me, Jesus loves me; I am so glad that Jesus loves me, Jesus loves even me.

Opening of the VISAR Virgin Gorda Marine Base

Honourable O’Neal with Ms. Eliza Turnbull at her 107th birthday celebration

2.

Though I forget Him and wander away, Still He doth love me wherever I stray; Back to His dear loving arms would I flee When I remember that Jesus loves me. [Refrain]

3.

O if there’s only one song I can sing When in His beauty I see the great King, This shall my song in eternity be: “O what a wonder, that Jesus loves me!” [Refrain]

Groundbreaking Ceremony for the Gertrude and Christiana Warner Community Centre

Official Renaming of the Little A Race Track to the Ellis Thomas Downs

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I was saddened to learn of the passing of Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal, OBE, a former Premier of the Virgin Islands who has served the people of the Ninth District and this Territory with great pride.

Honourable O’Neal has had a long and distinguished career commencing with his appointment as a primary school teacher. He was appointed as the second Clerk in the Legislative Council in 1958 and his political career began in 1975 when he was elected as a representative of the Legislative Council. Honourable O’Neal became Chief Minister of the Virgin Islands in May 1995 and in 2007 became the first Premier of the Virgin Islands. He holds the record of the longest serving politician in the Virgin Islands, Honourable O’Neal was a legend, a statesman, a disciplined politician and a historian who leaves a strong legacy for the legislators of this Territory to follow. Honourable O’Neal also made his contribution on a community level having served as a Member of the Rotary Club of Tortola and through his major contributions towards the BVI Red Cross. His many contributions towards the development and prosperity of this Territory are remembered by all.

On behalf of my wife, Millie, and our sons, I send my heartfelt condolences to his wife Mrs. Edris O’Neal, OBE, his children and extended family at this most difficult of times. I pray that God strengthens all of you.

May the many happy memories remain In your hearts to help you get through the times ahead.

Augustus J. U. Jaspert H. M. Governor

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I was deeply saddened when I learned of the passing of Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal, OBE, Member Emeritus of the House of Assembly.

Honourable O’Neal touched many lives as his work as a longtime servant of the people bears a good testimony of his civil service, from civil servant to public figure. Whether he served as an administrator, Leader of the Opposition, Chief Minister or the First Premier, among other positions, he firmly believed that: Through all the changing scenes of life, in trouble and in joy, the praises of my God shall still his heart and tongue employ.

Honourable O’Neal could be described as one of the last bastions of politics as we knew it in the Virgin Islands. He was a gentleman who commanded decorum and upheld the greatest respect for this House. He was indeed a teacher and a pillar of exemplary work not only for us who were trained under his guidance and good advice, but for his other political peers in the Caribbean region and perhaps the world.

He was a great man who taught me much of what I know today as an elected leader. He believed in reflection, where you must pause and look back at struggles and triumphs to determine future steps. He was not afraid to be brave for his people. He was not afraid to step forward to challenge injustices. He was not afraid to protect his people and to remind them to be vigilant in safeguarding the future of the British Virgin Islands. He believed in defending the cause of the Virgin Islands and he wanted to see the cries of the people are heard and considered.

As a forthright beacon, Honourable O’Neal was the type of person who preferred to hurt you with the truth, if it was necessary for the cause of the greater good - one of the secrets, I would say, to a long and fruitful career, and an equally long life. I remember when we were preparing for the 2007 General Election he asked us as his team to pay attention to the struggles in 1967 struggles. He said, “We are in a battle to restore many of our sovereign rights and the values that have strengthened and sustained us over the years….this [2007] elections is about restoring values, which seems to have been eroded… Compassion, Respect, Civility, Empowerment and Hope…This is the clarion call to battle”.

I deem it a pleasure and privilege that my Government passed a motion in the House during the Seventh Sitting of the Second Session of the Fourth House of Assembly to rename the Central Administration Complex in his honour. We saw this being an important honour due to the significance of this building to us as Virgin Islanders. The Central Administration Complex, is not just a building housing government offices, it is a monument which ought to represent Virgin Island pride, a tangible proof of the beginning of a developing, progressive and prosperous society.

As we work towards revitalising such an iconic building which is part of the Virgin Islands modern history and houses our public service, let us remember his legacy always as such a significant building bears his name.

Honourable O’Neal also willingly gave of himself in other public service areas including the Rotary Club of Road Town where he was a founding member, and also the BVI Red Cross, where he served at the highest level. He loved sports as well, particularly cricket.

On behalf of my Wife Shelia, our daughters, the people of the First District and the people of the Virgin Islands, I extend condolences to his wife Former First Lady Mrs. Edris O’Neal, OBE and his children. I also extend condolences to his son-in-law Honourable Vincent Wheatley, Minister for Natural Resources, Labour and Immigration and Ninth District Representative. Thank you all for sharing him with us.

The BVI loved him. The region admired him. The world knew him—Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal, OBE. We will miss him.

Honourable Andrew A. Fahie Premier and Minister of Finance 15

Dear Rev. O’Neal Please accept this letter in expression of my deep and sincere condolences on the passing of your dear husband the Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal.

The Honourable O’Neal has left a rich legacy which will endure and will be forever memorialized in the history of the Territory of the Virgin Islands having regard to his over forty (40) years of unselfish dedicated Public Service to the people and Territory of the Virgin Islands. He will be fondly remembered as a husband, a father, a teacher, a great leader, as well as for many other attributes and for the role he played in the development of the Virgin Islands.

I will always remember him for his support at all times and his joy at my professional strides as he took great pride in the achievements of fellow Virgin Islanders. He will be sorely missed but his larger than life persona will live on in your life, those of his dear children and all those whose lives he touched.

It is my hope that you and the children will find comfort in the memories of all your shared moments together.

May he rest in the arms of the Saviour in perfect and eternal peace.

Yours sincerely,

Dame Janice M. Pereira, DBE, LLD Chief Justice Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court

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We take this moment to celebrate the life of a remarkable man, a soldier, a statesman, a nationalist, a man who embodied so much that is great in these Virgin Islands. Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal, OBE, Member Emeritus was a man who loved people, his country, family and most importantly he loved God. Before his political career, he was a proven leader as he excelled in many different business ventures. He possessed key elements for success; he was focused, resourceful, hardworking and knew how to make meaningful communication. He was a patriot; he was always ready and willing to support his beloved Virgin Islands (VI) and was prepared to defend it against anyone who did not have this Territory’s best interest at heart.

As a public officer and politician he was a visionary. He was stable, informed, calculated and fearless. He surrounded himself with the best talent, who would help him promote an agenda which would elevate the lives of his people. Mr. O’Neal’s exemplary life can be used as a blueprint of what a true VI diplomat should be. He was never too busy to listen to his constituents and he was always secure enough to engage international giants who he viewed, as his equal.

His name and legacy will live on and he will be recognized with all the great leaders that ever served this Territory.

I would like to take this opportunity to publicly thank Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal, OBE for his leadership, his wisdom and his quest for good governance as a citizen and a political leader of these Virgin Islands. I want to thank him for representing our small islands state with dignity and pride at all levels: locally, regionally and internationally. I also thank him for his contributions to this Territory’s political and social advancement, particularly, top two of the islands he loved – Virgin Gorda and Anegada.

To his wife Reverend Edris O’Neal, OBE and children, I would also like to say thank you for sharing Honourable O’Neal with the people of the VI. Our Member Emeritus gave his life for the Territory he loved. He could not have done it without his immediate family and other loved ones standing by his side.

The House of Assembly will miss his wisdom, his commitment to building the institution, his knowledge of the parliamentary process, and his compelling respect for both government and opposition. “People die only when we forget them.” This country will never forget Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal, OBE, Member Emeritus, for because of him, all of our lives have been positively affected.

Honourable Julian Willock Speaker of the House of Assembly

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I first became aware of the Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal when he first ran for office in 1971. His opponent, the late Reeial George had sent pencils to the primary schools petitioning voters to “vote for Reeial George”. My teachers taught us the importance of elections and, more importantly, who our candidates were. Honourable R.T. O’Neal was my representative from 1975 until he retired in 2015.

Honourable O’Neal and I shared a very special relationship. Apart from being my representative he was also my father-in-law. Like many others in the community, he was a friend and father figure. Honourable O’Neal was known for his excellent memory, energy and approachability. Having spent a significant amount of time with him, I was able to produce a small video a few years ago that captured the essence of his life. It is hoped that this would morph into a documentary of his remarkable life. Honourable O’Neal came from very humble beginnings and rose to the highest level of office in the country, yet remained a very humble person. Honourable O’Neal was highly respected locally, regionally and internationally.

As a Virgin Gorda resident, I saw Virgin Gorda develop from a district of dirt roads and darkness, into a modern community. Most of these developments took place under the leadership of Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal. These developments facilitated the development of the business sector thus raising the standard of living for the people of the Ninth District. Honourable O’Neal was so successful in developing the Ninth District that he actually on one occasion ran unopposed.

Service to his fellow man was at the core of his being, whether through politics, Red Cross, Rotary or personally. He was instrumental in establishing both the Red Cross and Rotary in the British Virgin Islands. Honourble O’Neal was a family man; he loved his wife, children, grandchildren and extended family. You could always count on him to call on your special days. He hardly ever missed a funeral, and could tell you all about the dearly departed. He had a great sense of humour which always came through in his remarks. Honourable O’Neal was very “hot headed” in his early days but later on brought it under full control; well almost full control. There were a few moments when he would get so upset that his language would become a bit colourful. He once had a gun and to protect himself from getting into trouble, he voluntarily turned it in.

The full depth of Honourable O’Neal’s character and personality are difficult to capture in just one article, but it is a testament to the great man he was and what an honour it was for me to personally know him.

Honourable Vincent O. Wheatley Deputy Premier, Minister for Natural Resources, Labour and Immigration and Ninth District Representative

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Ministry of Transportation Works and Utilities

On behalf of my wife Suzanne, our daughters Seriya and Koiya and my neighbours of the Fifth Electoral District we extend heartfelt condolences to the immediate family, especially this Territory’s former First Lady, the Reverend Edris ChristopherO’Neal, his children, and the extended O’Neal Family, on this the occasion of farewell to a British Virgin Islands Hero, Patriot, Son of the Soil, Veteran Politician and the First Premier of the Virgin Islands, Honourable Ralph Telford O’Neal, OBE. The Late Honourable O’Neal has given service above self as is evidenced by him having dedicated all of his working life, which started in his teens, as was the order of the day, to serve the people of these beautiful Virgin Islands. The majority of that time has been in public service as educator, preacher, administrator and politician, to list a few. He could not have done it as ably as he did without the strong support of family and colleagues, and trust in God, and for that I take this medium to publicly thank all such persons who enabled him to achieve great strides for our Territory. I truly believe that Honourable O’Neal often reflected on the words of well-known hymns such as one found in the Methodist Hymn Book No. 427: Through all the changing scenes of life, In trouble and in joy, The praises of my God shall still My heart and tongue employ.

Nahum Tate, 1652-1715 & Nicholas Brady, 1639-1726

In fact, Honourable O’Neal has not only witnessed many changing scenes of life in this Territory but has helped to improve the way of life and standard of living which we all can now enjoy. As the sitting Minister for Transportation, Works and Utilities, I will endeavour to carry on the legacy of Honourable O’Neal so that as a Government we can continue to improve and develop our infrastructure on the sure foundation which he has laid.

May his soul rest in peace.

Honourable Kye M. Rymer Minister for Transportation, Works and Utilities Fifth District Representative

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On behalf of my family, the people of the Seventh District, and the Ministry of Education, Culture, Agriculture, Fisheries, Youth Affairs, and Sports, I extend heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal, OBE, Member Emeritus along with the entire Virgin Islands community. A giant tree has fallen in the Virgin Islands forest, and on such sad occasions, somber reflection is inevitable.

Honourable O’Neal is a man who can only accurately be described as a legend. As it pertains to the length and breadth of public service which can possibly be rendered by a Virgin Islander, he is the gold standard. He started off at a very young age and served as long as his body would allow. He served in many positions across the public service, including as Chief Minister and, later, as the first Premier. His 40-year tenure as representative of the people of Virgin Gorda and Anegada is the stuff of legend. Over that period of time, he made a tremendous impact on his community, in the legislature, and the executive.

Honourable O’Neal political involvement spanned several political eras. Due to the March of 1949, led by Faulkner, Decastro, and Fonseca, the Legislature was restored in 1950. I have identified this as the beginning of the first political era of the modern BVI, which would then end in 1967 with the introduction of Ministerial Government and party politics. Honourable O’Neal served as a clerk in the Legislative Council at some point during this period and, therefore, intimately connected to this political era.

Honourable O’Neal was elected in 1975 during the era of Ministerial Government and political parties (1967-1986), serving with stalwarts such as, Honourable Lavity Stoutt, Willard Wheatley, Oliver Cills, Terrance Lettsome, and Dr. Q.W. Osborne among others.

He also served during what I describe as the Lavity Stoutt/VIP era (1986-1999). Honourable O’Neal became a strong member of the VIP under the leadership of Lavity Stoutt, and this grouping would win three consecutive terms in office; this can certainly be considered the golden days of VIP politics. Lavity Stoutt, sadly, passed away in 1995 at the beginning of the third consecutive term, making Honourable O’Neal Chief Minister after 20 years in office.

Lastly, Honourable O’Neal served during the NDP/VIP era (1999-2015). He led the VIP to its first election victory under his leadership, but this election would see new faces from the newly formed National Democratic Party and the Virgin Islands party. Dr. Orlando Smith, Kedrick Pickering, Ronnie Skelton and other members of the NDP would do battle with Honourable O’Neal, Honourable Andrew Fahie, Honourable Julian Fraser and other members of the VIP over the course of the next 16 years. During this period, Honourable O’Neal won perhaps his greatest political victory in 2007, securing 11 out of 13 seats, becoming the Territory’s first Premier.

Honourable Ralph T. Oneal is the longest serving politician in BVI history and, hence, no other elected person has been so intimately connected to every era of the political development of the modern BVI. Honourable O’Neal ran his leg of the race well; there is a new era of politicians in the BVI, of which I am one, and it is our responsibility to build on the foundation he helped to establish. I salute Honourable Ralph O’Neal; may his legacy live on and his soul rest in eternal peace!

Dr. the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley Minister for Education, Culture, Youth Affairs, Fisheries and Agriculture Seventh District Representative

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I have long embraced the fact that the path that we walk throughout the Virgin Islands is a direct result of the wisdom and sacrifices of our forefathers. I have also embraced the fact that the men and women that we become in life is directly related to the sum total of “where we were when” and “the persons with whom we interact throughout our life’s journey”. I have had the rich fortune of interacting with great men past and present and in this regard the man that I am today can be attributed to my direct interaction with the late Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal, OBE. I regarded him as a father, my mentor and most important, my friend. His-story is, in large parts, the story of Virgin Gorda and Anegada. Having entered the teaching profession at the age of 18, his-story is, in large parts, the story of the British Virgin Islands during his 65 plus years in public service to this Territory in general and to the 40 plus years in political life, in particular.

As a stalwart member and Chairman of the Virgin Islands Party, Honourable O’Neal’s record of accomplishments has defined his rich legacy that would be beneficial to generations yet unborn. I had the fortune, the privilege and the pleasure of serving as President of the Virgin Islands Party during his tenure as Chairman for 15 years and for that honour I am eternally grateful. On behalf of my wife Pernis, my daughter Kirsten, my brothers and sisters and of the memory of my late parents, Randolph and Ruth Malone, I join with his wife Reverend Edris O’Neal OBE, his daughters Esther and Cheryl, his son Ralphie, his relatives, the people of the ninth electoral district and his friends in the celebration of the rich legacy to which we will now fondly embrace and cherish.

May his soul rest in eternal peace.

Honourable Carvin Malone Minister for Health and Social Development Territorial At-Large Representative

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On behalf of the entire legal and administrative staff (both past and present) of the Attorney General’s Chambers, Government of the Virgin Islands, I offer deepest sympathy to Reverend Edris O’Neal and to the entire O’Neal family on the passing of the late Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal, OBE, Member Emeritus.

Many of us were fortunate to work closely with the late Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal, OBE, Member Emeritus while he served in various capacities within the Public Service and we greatly benefited from his guidance, wisdom and foresight as he managed our beloved Territory of the Virgin Islands with a steady hand.

Accordingly, while we mourn his loss, we join the Territory in honouring his legacy which captures his unwavering love for the advancement of the people of these Virgin Islands.

May his soul rest in eternal peace.

Jo-Ann Williams-Roberts Acting Attorney General

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In tribute to Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal, OBE Member Emeritus In reflecting on the life and legacy of Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal, OBE Member Emeritus, it is evident that the Virgin Islands has benefitted greatly from his commitment to our development into what we are today.

Honourable O’Neal’s invaluable contributions to the Public Service began in 1951 when he served as a Primary School teacher for the Road Town Primary School and later the East End Primary School. His love for the profession was remarkable as he would often go to great lengths to ensure that each student was successful. A generation of men and women who have contributed immensely to the development of this Territory would have been under his tutelage at some point during their educational advancement.

He understood the role that he played as a citizen of the Virgin Islands and always did what he could to improve our community. This is why he dedicated much of his life to the development of the Public Service and the shaping of the political landscape of this Territory.

He made these contributions as Clerk of the Legislative Council, Administrative Secretary, Trade and Production; Treasurer, Chief Education Officer, Labour Commissioner, Telecommunications Officer and Secretary to Government before going into politics and public office in 1975 where he would serve as the Representative for the Seventh Electoral District, before it became the Ninth District.

As an elected leader, he represented the people of these Virgin Islands to the best of his ability and would stop at nothing to ensure that he did his utmost to assist his constituents where he could, which ultimately lead to the establishment of the BV I Electricity Corporation, Social Security Board, BV I Ports Authority, the Bregado Flax Educational Centre, the Anegada Secondary Division, BV I Tourist Board, the Development Bank of the Virgin Islands and many other initiatives and projects.

Honourable O’Neal’s legacy was further cemented when he assumed the position of the first Premier of the Virgin Islands i n 2007. The people of the Virgin Islands have benefitted immensely from Honourable O’Neal ‘s years of service. He has undoubtedly helped to create a Virgin Islands that we can all be proud of today, and we are now able to stand on the shoulders of the giant of a man who was Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal, OBE Member Emeritus because of the contributions, commitment and dedication to the creation of a prosperous Virgin Islands.

To his family, I offer my sincerest condolences and I thank you wholeheartedly on behalf of my family and the men and women of the Public Service, for lending Honourable O’Neal to us during his time on earth. I ask that you find comfort in the words of Psalms 34:18, which reminds us, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” May God be with the family of the late Honourable O’Neal and the people of the Virgin Islands who are affected during this difficult time.

Sincerely,

David D. Archer, Jr. Deputy Governor 23

I join the entire Virgin Islands in celebrating the life of an iconic son of the soil, Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal, OBE Member Emeritus. In 1975, Honourable O’Neal became a member of the Legislative Council when his love for country nudged him into the political arena, thereafter, dedicating his life to public service.

Honourable O’Neal gave over six decades of his life to the Public Service of the Virgin Islands and during that time, he touched and changed the lives of many persons, including myself. He was a man who I grew to know and love and I am grateful that I had the privilege and honour to serve with this noble man.

Over the years, Honourable O’Neal held several portfolios including Representative for the Seventh and Ninth Districts in the Legislative Council, Minister for Social Services, Natural Resources and Labour, and Deputy Chief Minister and Chief Minister and was the first Premier of the Virgin Islands. He retired from active politics in 2015 and was bestowed the title of Member Emeritus.

As a member of the Public Accounts Committee, I observed the way in which he conducted himself with first class integrity while diligently performing his duties. Even in the twilight of his political career, he respected the institution of the House of Assembly. He was a true statesman and his record of service is unmatched by any in the region.

I will remember Honourable O’Neal as a humanitarian, a comedian, father, businessman and most importantly a political stalwart who was extremely passionate about what was best for the people of this Territory, no matter what direction the political winds were blowing.

We will always be grateful for the invaluable contributions he made to the Territory.

My family and I offer deepest condolences to the entire family of Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal, OBE Member Emeritus in their time of bereavement.

I pray you cherish the precious memories and be comforted by Gods unchanging hand during your bereavement. I leave you with these words from Holy Scripture found in Matthew 5:4 which states, “Blessed are they who mourn for they shall be comforted.”

Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal, OBE Member Emeritus was a true patriot of these Virgin Islands and advocate for the people of this Territory. He will truly be missed.

May he rest in eternal peace!

Honourable Marlon A. Penn Leader of Her Majesty’s Loyal Opposition Eighth District Representative

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To the Family and Friends of the Late Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal OBE Member Emeritus: On Monday, 11th November, 2019 we lost a great man.

The Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal, OBE, Member Emeritus was a man filled with humour and vigour, despite the heavy burdens he once carried as the Leader of our beloved Territory.

Honourable O’Neal has been a mentor to me in so many ways, both personally and professionally. He would never refer to me by my name but as “Harold boy”, then a conversation of cricket would ensue.

Before delving into politics, I would usually look to Honourable O’Neal’s long spanning political career for inspiration.

I have learnt so much from him even after his departure from political office and now from this earth. I will continue to learn from him. “Ralphie” as he was affectionally called by those who truly knew him, has left his footprints behind and has etched his place in our history books. He is now gone, but surely won’t be forgotten.

Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal was a son, a husband, a father, a friend, a confidante, and a champion for those who had none. His demise has left a huge void, not only in our hearts, but in our local politics. He was loved and admired by many.

Capturing the moments and dates of his life would be endless...but capturing special moments spent with his family, his joys, his sorrows, those quiet moments, when only he knew the thoughts that raced through his mind are qualities that resonate only within a person.

I do not have enough adjectives to describe the Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal, who has displayed the spirit of resiliency throughout his final days and has now gone home to rest.

To the people of these Virgin Islands, we have lost a stalwart, a great leader, a giant of a man and a visionary. It is hard for me to eulogize Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal.

May God bless the late Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal, and may he rest in eternal Peace.

Honourable Neville A. Smith Deputy Speaker Territorial At-Large Representative

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The passing of Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal, OBE, and Member Emeritus is an incalculable loss to the fraternity of world leaders, to the Virgin Islands and to his family and friends. Honourable O’Neal was a transformational leader and change agent, who had great dreams of what the Virgin Islands could be.

He had a gift of innovative thinking, a visionary spirit, and the tenacious patience required to successfully lead meaningful governmental reform. His over four decades of indelible service, has recorded his unwavering commitment to people and territory. This has left a legacy of an empowered people, with a conviction in our ability to self-determine and to continue to chart a prosperous course for our beloved Virgin Islands.

I am a product of his legacy. I too, was inspired by his life. As a keen admirer of his impeccable leadership and political savvy, I gained an appreciation for politics and felt the desire to one day become one to serve and help in the governance of our territory. Honourable O’Neal has inspired generations. His contributions were impactful and his work ethic and integrity were above reproach.

In addition to his devotion to the people of the Virgin Islands, he always found time for his colleagues, his friends, and his family; especially his wife Edris and four children. I have always marveled at his endless capacity to love and to move beyond even the most disappointing setbacks in order to seize the possibilities of each new day.

Sometimes we look far and wide for heroes. We look at celebrities we haven’t met, touched or spoken to and we brand them as role models. We see what the media wants us to see, often times void of their struggles and imperfections. But those among us, we see their journey firsthand, their victories and defeats and we often times unconsciously disqualify them of the valour, honour and respect they rightfully deserve.

When asked the question: “Who is your hero?” I’ve always endeavoured to look within our shores first. Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal, OBE is one such hero. He was the epitome of leadership, an example of humility, the essence of vision and the embodiment of Virgin Islands’ pride. I grew up admiring this legend, this giant on whose shoulders I now stand. I am the representative I am today because of the strong foundation he laid. His legacy lives on through us all. May we honour him with our hard work and humble service.

Today, as the sun sets on his journey through time, it rises to greet him with perpetual brightness in Heaven’s eternity.

May his soul rest in peace.

Honourable Sharie B. de Castro Junior Minister for Tourism Territorial At-Large Representative

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Remembering a Giant!

On November 11, this Territory was dealt a blow unlike any we had experienced in a while. Uncle Ralph, Jack, OBE, Premier, Emeritus had died. Men like the late Honourable O’Neal earned many a nickname through our admiration and many a title through our respect.

As a young lady growing up on Virgin Gorda, I was familiar with the Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal in many ways that I will forever cherish now that he has passed. As I matured in the ninth district, during the time of his leadership, my admiration for him grew more. Uncle Ralph’s defining quality was his unwavering love for the British Virgin Islands. There really is no other word to describe the pivotal role that he played in transforming this Territory but historic!

As the ninth district representative, he was the driving force and guiding beacon of our gradual evolution from dirt roads to smooth asphalt. This is only a tiny expression of his wider contribution. Two of his most critically remembered acts were his decisive campaign for institutions of education on Virgin Gorda even when this dream was scorned, and the negotiations that resulted in Little Dix Bay becoming one of the three largest employers in the Territory and the five star face of brand BVI tourism.

Ever the businessman, this Oxford alumni was an unrivalled intellect. His marriage of economic genius and his Virgin Islands first mentality saw our Territory surge forward even during the global downturn of the 2008 financial crisis. The Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal transcended any one space even in politics. His singular focus on the individual and collective betterment of us as a people drove him to serve for decades, earning him the uncontested honour of being our longest ever serving legislator.

To impress the feisty, sharp people of these Virgin Islands for years upon end Uncle Ralph must have been a man of the people, and so he was. To family, friend and foe he was “Uncle Ralph” because even his rivals understood that in his heart he viewed us all as his blood and would fight for us until the very end. He earned the name Uncle Ralph because he genuinely cared for his people and they responded with appreciation and affection. His warm demeanour showed that he was willing to listen to you and assist you in any way he could. For his many years and many friends he had many a story. He was an encyclopaedia of Virgin Islands history; a treasure trove of knowledge that we have now lost but for his impactful legacy.

My people, I tell you that we have lost an icon. Honourable Ralph T O’Neal, OBE, stood as a bastion of true patriotism.

He was quick thinking in the wake of challenges, unmoving in the face of opposition and honourable in the midst of battle.

With his loss I extend my deepest sympathies to the O’Neal family, and of course to the entire Territory and region, for this is a man whose legacy goes beyond borders. I am reminded by his memory to fight the good fight vocally, honourably and with a sharpened mind. Let us all strive to fill his big shoes.

May Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal’s soul rest in perfect peace and rise in glory.

Honourable Shereen D. Flax-Charles Junior Minister for Trade and Economic Development Territorial At-Large Representative 27

On behalf of my wife Kharid and the people of the Third District, I express heartfelt condolences to his wife Rev. Edris, son Ralph Jr. and daughters Esther, Cheryl, and Abigail; the extended families, and his former constituents of the Ninth District in their time of bereavement. I pray that God will show them the way to a brighter tomorrow.

Proverbially, Honourable O’Neal was able to stuff 7 lbs. in a 5 lb. bag, which is far more than can be said for just about everyone else.

He lived a full life and was able to perform at the highest level in his craft, on the job up until four years before his passing.

The night in October 2016 when Honourable O’Neal took ill, he was at a function and I was there. He was taken straight to Peebles Hospital and within days was transferred to a facility in Florida, where Kharid and I made it our business and visited him during that November. He was never the same since that night.

Despite the shock it brought, his passing came as no surprise because his condition was made known on a regular basis.

When I was accepted on the VIP ticket to contest the 1999 General Elections, during the final stages of what was a hotly contested election Honourable O’Neal took ill. When I went to his home to visit him, the only question I could ask myself was, “why now”? Had he not pull-through it would have been for me the end of the beginning of what has become a 20-year political career. For that and many things I had him to thank.

Of his 40 years in politics, no one individual has spent as much time around him as I have in the capacity we served. In his two Administrations during the four terms we served together I was always one of his Ministers, including his Deputy Chief Minister, even back when there were only four Ministers in Government.

During his last Administration he didn’t seem to want to leave the BVI without me. From his very first trip days after the 2007 elections which was to Puerto Rico for a Caribbean Tourism Organization Conference, to his last in Barbados to a WTO Conference, I was there. We’ve been to the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in London on several occasions on pressing matters with the Minister for Overseas Territories. And of course, as Members of the Opposition, we were Members of the 2007 Constitution Negotiations Team which took us back to London also.

Our on the job relationship is reflected in the records, which will show that in his last Administration 2007-2011, he so confided in me that of 14 of his overseas duties, he either had me accompany him, or he had me represent him, from Brussels to New Caledonia and places in between. We had a very good working relationship.

Honourable O’Neal was a strong advocate for things germane to Virgin Islanders, things such as: land and their taxes; names of places; the orderly development of the Territory; and building our institutions. These are things for which he fought. I have committed to ensuring that this legacy continues.

Here’s to a man who never got to know how powerful he was, for it was only after he was incapacitated the building in which he served as the Territory’s First Premier was named in his honor. And it was only after he was dead a national holiday was declared for his funeral.

He was that powerful. What if he had known?

Honourable O’Neal’s long service to this Territory has endowed him with a wealth of knowledge. This is irrefutable. I just hope it was chronicled so generations yet unborn can be beneficiaries.

Honourable Julian Fraser, RA Member of Her Majesty’s Loyal Opposition Third District Representative

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The late Honourable Ralph Telford O’Neal OBE was a friend, confidant, mentor and advisor to me and I will forever be grateful for the tremendous positive impact he has had on my life.

I had great respect for him as a family man, businessman and politician and looked to him for guidance in many areas. He was a loyal husband and father, a friend to the community, in particular the residents of Virgin Gorda and Anegada; an astute businessman and a public servant of good repute.

I had the privilege of working very closely with Mr. O’Neal when we served in the Legislative Council/House of Assembly together. Whether we were on the opposite side of the aisle or on the same side, I was able to observe with admiration his pensiveness, composure, quick wittedness, intelligence and his sheer love for these islands. A biography of his life will detail the vast contribution he has made to the development of these Virgin Islands and undoubtedly he will forever be remembered.

I was pleased to be able to support the recent Resolution in the House of Assembly to rename the Central Administration Building in Road Town, Tortola in his honour.

Mr. O’Neal’s passing is a great loss for the Territory, but his legacy will live on through the service he rendered as a faithful public servant and long serving legislator.

On behalf of my wife Judith and our children, the management and staff of OneMart Supermarket and the constituents of the Fourth Electoral District, I extend my deepest condolences to his wife the Reverend Edris O’Neal and his children Esther, Jackie, Ralph Jr. and Chrisneal.

May his soul Rest In Peace.

Honourable Mark H. Vanterpool Member of Her Majesty’s Loyal Opposition Fourth District Representative

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It is an honour but with great sadness in my heart that I write this tribute on behalf of my colleague and teacher Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal. I say teacher because I have learnt so much from him while serving with him in the House of Assembly.

He was a man with great knowledge, a man with a great vision for his country and people. His work for his people and country are too numerous to mention but will surely speak for him. Many times I sat with him in sessions and enjoyed listening to him speak about his favourite sport (cricket). He was an avid cricketer and spoke about this game with soo much passion.

Hon O’Neal will be remembered as a political giant, an icon, a stalwart, a man who truly loved his country and his people. He will be missed and remembered by all.

Condolences to his family on behalf of my family and the constituents of District Six. May he rest in eternal peace.

Honourable Alvera Maduro-Caines Member of Her Majesty’s Loyal Opposition Sixth District Representative

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It is with honour, humility and sincerity that I join the people of the Virgin Islands to mourn the passing of this giant of a man, first Premier and longest serving Elected Representative of the Virgin Islands, Member Emeritus, Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal. He was a political giant who was hugely intelligent with a mind like an encyclopaedia, not an arrogant man but was stern and true to his word.

His commitment to the Territory and its people caused him to make decisions that were not popular among his colleagues and supporters, but through his wisdom most would admit that his decision was the right after the dust was settled. The people of the ninth district and territory including myself had a tremendous amount of respect for Honourable O’Neal for his leadership and intellect. He was clear about position and even clearer about his politics no matter how many times persons would think that he fell asleep or was not paying attention to the discussions that were happening around him.

I am privileged to have been a Member of the House of Assembly when the title of Member Emeritus was bestowed upon Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal for his years of service to the Territory in the Third House of Assembly and also during my contribution in this Fourth House, to ensure that we not just name the Central Administration Building in his honour but that The renaming be amended to be the Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal Administration Complex.

It is my belief that Honourable R.T. O’Neal lived a long and fruitful life satisfying his God intended purpose here on earth and we can all agree that the dash between the date he was born and the date that he passed will forever be embedded in the hearts and minds of those who he encountered and it will be inked in the history of the Virgin Islands.

The sacrifice made by this giant of a man and his family to serve and lead people for over 60 years is one that is referenced in the Holy Scripture, 2 Timothy 4:7-8: I have fought a good fight, I have kept the faith; Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord the righteous judge, shall give me at that day; and not to me only, but unto all them that love his appearing;.

On behalf of my family, the Second District Community and the people of these beautiful and blessed Virgin Islands, I say to his wife Rev. O’Neal and the rest of the family, Thank you for sharing your husband, father, brother, uncle and grandfather with us. It is a thankless job sometimes, but I return as the one whom Jesus had healed to say THANK YOU. May the spirit, love and commitment that Honourable O’Neal had for this Territory be imparted on those of us that remain and may his soul rest in eternal peace.

Honourable Melvin M. Turnbull Member of Her Majesty’s Loyal Opposition Second District Representative

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Annual Christmas Celebration - Maria’s by the Sea 2010

Honourable O’Neal with granddaughters Dr. Amber

Wheatley(left) and Xyrah Wheatley(right)

Honourable O’Neal with wife Edris O’Neal and daughter Abigail

Sharaing a smile with wife Edris O’Neal

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Tributes from Family

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t is extremely difficult to put into words the way I feel right now. Ralph, we started out on our journey with our feet solidly on the ground and with the strong belief that our marriage was blessed by God and with his guidance we would have a happy marriage.

We shared with each other every aspect of our life. We prayed together, dined together, worked hard and encouraged each other, built together, served together, comforted each other, grew old together. It became difficult to spend time just the two of us. So, we would get up early in the morning, have our devotions and then have time to chat until the phone started ringing at 6.00 a.m. I never had to prompt you, you had a deep faith in God, whom you loved and served, and you took the lead in guiding our spiritual life.

When I came home after my accident which required me to spend six weeks in Jackson Memorial hospital, I was amazed to see the toll my illness had taken on you. In your way you helped nurse me back to health, and I could see the delight in your face when I made my first steps. Then lo and behold, you took ill with a stroke and for 72 days I was by your side in hospital and then you were able to come home and be cared for. I could see your strength failing and tried to reconcile myself and the family to the fact that you would soon leave us. I wish to thank all those who assisted with your home care, especially Deniese Gardener, who was not only a caregiver but came to gain your confidence in a very special way.

After 40 plus wonderful years, you can imagine the sense of loss and the emptiness within my heart. During the time we were married we had our share of grief and loss. I lost my father, my mother, three sisters and two brothers. You lost five brothers and three sisters. You were particularly saddened by Denville’s death and I am glad I was there to be by your side at that time. Yes, we have had our share of grief and difficulty, but we were there to comfort each other and to trust God. Today although my heart aches for you, as I look back over our life together, I thank you for asking me to be your wife and for the wonderful marriage we had. I thank you for the time we spent together in meditation and prayer.

Oh, how I missed those early morning chats just the two of us. I thank you for the opportunities you have given me to travel with you and to see many countries. I thank you for the standard of living we enjoyed. I thank you for your patient and friendly attitude, I thank you for your sense of humour, I thank you for your public-spiritedness, I thank you for our daughter, Abigail and the love that you showed every day. I thank you for the way in which you shared your love with the BVI community. I thank you for all the lessons you have taught us by the way you lived and loved.

Today you are out of your suffering and pain, and even though we loved you and will miss you, we are thankful that your faith in God was firmly grounded and rooted, and that you are now resting safe in the arms of Jesus. We hope to meet again one day in glory and enjoy the blessings that God has promised us.

Until then sleep on and take your rest.

Your loving wife.

Edris

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The Honourable R. T. O’Neal married Viola George on 19th December, 1956, and I showed up a year later 19th December, 1957. He honoured the legacy of his beloved mother by bestowing her name Esther to his first born.

A big man with big hands, a long stride, and a big voice, he is grasping my tiny hand in his, and I am tottering by his side trying to keep up with his long strides as we make our way from McNamara to uptown. This is the image that comes to my mind’s eye now when I think of our father, my Dad. These physical qualities were the things that always gave me a sense of confidence and comfort that if he was here, I was always safe and protected.

These characteristics were some of the same attributes that gave his people of the BVI the confidence that the Honourable R. T. O’Neal could shoulder all problems and who would speak with a loud enough voice on behalf of his people that their concerns would always be heard and never ignored.

In his public life his accolades are many and his lists of accomplishments are well known, but today I speak of him as the person behind the public figure, the father. Foremost, he was strong-willed and principled. Discipline and respectfulness especially to our elders were the insistent and constant teachings along with large doses of the importance of education, work ethics, and global curiosity. These are the lessons that made us fiercely independent, accountable, and responsible for our lives and now the lives of his grandchildren. It is not at all unusual to hear any of his two granddaughters say, “Humph, you know what Grand Poppy would say. You know how you got there; you must know how you will get out”; a lesson in critical thinking in its purest form.

He was a warm, caring, loving and sharing father with a little quirky sense of humour. This side of Dad is not the most obvious to many but understand that he was a logical, thinking man and viewed the world from that perspective. His personal emotions were rarely on display, but we know in his time of privacy he cried when we cried, shared our dreams and aspirations, our successes and failures, celebrated with us, and fought our battles for us when necessary. Above all, he constantly prayed for us.

As we gather here today to celebrate his life and his contributions to our lives, I would like to thank the BVI Health Services and the Dr. D. Orlando Smith Hospital staff for their excellent attention to his care and their continued contributions to our community. I can only tell you how very proud he was to be treated there. Here was another shining example of the strength and tenacity of his people, who built this facility and of the good work that continues to be done there.

Dad was one hundred percent, all in committed and dedicated to this country and the people of this Territory. We will miss our father. I will miss his counsel. We will miss him and the contribution he made to the country while he lived. Let us leave here today challenged to continue his legacy of country before self and to speak with a loud voice for the rights of the people and to live with undying love and pride for these Virgin Islands.

Daughter: Esther My rock, my hero, my teacher. You always guided me through life by example which is the most powerful of ways as actions do indeed speak volumes.

You were strict but kind and encouraging. Your support knew no bounds but within that you were always teaching me what had to be done to achieve the goals set.

You taught me what it means to be a leader, what it means to love ones country and sacrifice for it, what it means to be a good and true man and brother of all men. You taught me about the power of faith in God. I know that you are now at peace. Rest in the power knowing that your life of service made a difference in the lives of many and laid the foundations to make a difference in the lives of many to come.

Love Abby In the public eye, our grandfather was a political giant but to us he was Grandpoppy, a man of few words at times and slightly intimidating to us as a towering giant with a low grumble when we were kids. It was always a delight to hear “children, how you!?” on our regular visits whether it was August Monday, his Saturday Office hours on Virgin Gorda, or just going by after school in our younger years.

We have never had to look far for a positive role model for our ambitions. The example Grandpoppy set for us has always inspired us to do better than our best with both grace and humility. Over the years we have learnt many things from and about Grandpoppy. Most importantly our special relationship with him has taught us that positive intentions and small actions are key steps in building a legacy; never make assumptions; and the art of thought and silence.

We have enjoyed the time we spent together and will always remember you as a living, vital presence and your memory will bring refreshment to our hearts and strengthen us in times of trouble.

Granddaughters: Alex, Amber and Xyrah 34

Today we pause to celebrate the legacy of Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal, OBE, a former Leader of this Territory for his selfless, committed and loyal service to the Territory of the Virgin Islands and for his role in its development. He made invaluable contributions made to the development of the Territory as a public officer, an educator, an astute entrepreneur, and through politics.

Working with Honourable O’Neal as a Government Leader and the Leader of the Opposition, we have agreed, disagreed, dialogued and debated several issues with one common goal in mind -- to ensure the advancement of these Virgin Islands and our people.

A son of the Virgin Gorda soil, Honourable O’Neal has held the hearts of his constituents in the ninth district community, as he simultaneously fulfilled his duties. A steadfast leader, he taught both in and out of the class-room, and many of our people learned under his guidance and from his words of wisdom.

Honourable O’Neal entered the political arena in 1975 and was successfully elected as the representative for the seventh district of Virgin Gorda. Loved by the Virgin Gorda community, Honourable O’Neal served as the Elected Representative for the Ninth District (Virgin Gorda and Anegada) from 1979 to 2015 continuously. During his political tenure, he held many offices including Chief Minister and Minister of Finance and Economic Development; Minister of Social Services; Minister of Natural Resources and Labour; Deputy Chief Minister; as well as Premier and Minister of Finance.

Honourable O’Neal was renowned for his sense of justice, sharp wit, strategic debating styles and thought- provoking, poetic rhetoric that have helped him to champion many causes for the Virgin Gorda community and the entire Virgin Islands. These include the birth of the Virgin Gorda tourism sector, the growth of the Virgin Gorda education system and infrastructural development to name a few. But his service extended beyond the political arena through community service.

Honourable O’Neal was a founding member of the Rotary Club of Tortola, which was established in the Territory in 1968. He was also a Justice of the Peace, a Commissioner for Oaths and a Notary Public. For leading by example, in 1974 he was awarded the Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (OBE) for his service to the community. And most recently his contributions to the Territory were recognised by the naming of the Central Administration Building the “Honourable Ralph T O’Neal Administration Complex”.

Honourable O’Neal was also family oriented and devoted to his wife Reverend Edris O’Neal and his children, his grand children and numerous god children.

As we celebrate his accomplishments and contributions to the Virgin Islands, may we treasure this unforgettable legacy and ensure that it remains on the pages of our Virgin Islands’ history.

On behalf my wife Lorna and my family, I extend sincerest condolences to his wife Edris his children and his entire family.

Dr. D. Orlando Smith, OBE Former Premier of the Virgin Islands

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Tributes from Former Legislators Honourable Ralph Telford O’Neal, one of several children of his parents,was born in the British Virgin Islands in the 1930s. He grew up in an era that could easily be considered the dark ages for the BVI. As a youngster growing up in Virgin Gorda he had all of the struggles of the average local during those years. It was noted from his earliest years that he was gifted academically and therefore opportunities and doors were open for him.

His early years after leaving school led him to be a pupil teacher, head teacher and then on to Road Town where he was employed in the Civil Service in which he held various positions. Growing up outside of Road Town and especially on the sister islands, in those days would’ve had its challenges to be able to graduate into the civil service of the day, but he continued to rise and eventually served in the positions of Clerk of both Executive and Legislative Councils, a significant acheivement for that time and era. He eventually retired from the Civil Service and proceeded to a short lived career in the private sector.

Ralph Telford O’Neal was a bridge, the first part of his public service career being spent in an administrative role helping to guide the political leaders of the day. He was intimately involved in the setting up of the first ministerial government of these islands in the 1967. That government, of course, consisted of the late HL Stoutt, TB Lettsome and Ivan Dawson. He played an integral role in the formation of the various ministries and governance structures that were necessary for the administration of the government.

His legislative career began in 1975 and his contribution to the parliamentary life of the BVI is legendary. It can be said that this was his second bridge which covered some of the major developments of the British Virgin Islands. He served for just over 40 years and to put this in perspective it compares with various elder statesman throughout the wider Caribbean. In terms of longevity, his service in the Legislative Council compares to the likes of Edward Seaga of Jamaica, Patrick Manning of Trinidad and Tobago, and Sir Lyndon Pindling of the Bahamas. It can be argued and I’m sure it will be, by the historians as to how his service stacks up against those mentioned. Whatever argument is put forward and or sustained, Honourable Ralph O’Neal is outstanding in many respects.

I knew him from my early years as his children Esther and Jackie are my contemporaries. I knew him as a dedicated Methodist and the husband of one of our ministers, Reverend Edris Christopher-O’Neal. I had various contacts with him during my student years when he was the Minister for Education. But I came to know him much more significant and personal during the years we spent together in the Legislative Council an the House of Assembly. For the 16 years that we spent together in our parliamentary careers we were on opposite sides of the House. It is probably fair to say that he was involved in all of the major pieces of modern day legislation from which this country now benefits.

We had our battles, but we learnt to agree to disagree. We developed a mutual respect of each other’s point of view and to see our varied positions in the context of the greater good of the Territory. There are three lessons I cherish from observing Honourable O’Neal: 1. He had the greatest of respect for the legislative arm of Government, the rules and procedures, and his colleagues past and present.

2. He tried as far as possible to be on time and respect others.

3. He was a Virgin Islands’ patriot; he believed in the country, its people and our ability to rise to greater heights.

In the annals of BVI history, Honourable O’Neal stands as one of our greats, whatever yardstick of measurements we use. He ran a good race. Like all great men he stumbled, fell down, but got back up and moved on. BVI is better that he stayed the course.

On behalf of my family, our condolences to Sis Edris, Abby, Esther, Jackie, Ralphie and the rest of the family.

Dr. Kedrick Pickering Former Deputy Premier

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I write in tribute to the life and work of a man who for well over half a century served The Virgin Islands and the Caribbean, and who has shaped and influenced so much.

I cannot recall a time when I did not know of Ralph Telford O’Neal as a school teacher and senior civil servant. It was to be that part of my public life and service was destined to intersect with his.

In my early years as Crown Counsel in the Attorney General’s Chambers, Honourable O’Neal was Minister of Social Services, and I well recall my interactions with him at that time.

On my becoming Attorney General in 1992, Honourable O’Neal was Deputy Chief Minister. H. Lavity Stoutt was Chief Minister, Louis Walters, Terrance Lettsome and Oliver Cills were Ministers, and together with the Governor, we formed the Executive Council.

In those days, Executive Council met every other Wednesday at the Governor’s Office. Honourable O’Neal was always present, on time, well prepared and an active participant in the serious policy initiatives and decisions which the Government was making for The Virgin Islands. He was a good and faithful Deputy to the Chief Minister, and respected me in my role as Attorney General.

Several years later, in 2007 on the coming into effect of The Virgin Islands Constitution Order, 2007, Honourable O’Neal had the courage as a leader, and the confidence in me to recommend my appointment as the first Deputy Premier of the Virgin Islands, a Minister in the first Cabinet of the Virgin Islands, and a Member of the first National Security Council of the Virgin Islands. It was an honour to serve in those capacities and to represent him as Premier and the Virgin Islands internationally as I often did.

My memories abound: • Working with him to establish the first Cabinet of The Virgin Islands; • His chairmanship of the first ever Meeting of the Cabinet of the Virgin Islands not held under the Chairmanship of the Governor; • His move from being Leader of the Opposition and his acceptance of appointment as Deputy Chief Minister at a time of national crisis; • His calm, sober leadership as Interim Chief Minister and then Chief Minister in the difficult days following the sudden death in office of Chief Minister H. Lavity Stoutt in May, 1995; • His unswerving commitment to regionalism and Caribbean unity. He was in his element and a huge presence at the meetings of CARICOM Heads of Government, as well as OECS Heads of Government. He valued his interactions and relationships with Caribbean leaders such as Cheddi Jagan of Guyana, Vere Bird and Lester Bird of Antigua and Barbuda, Sir John Compton of St Lucia, P. J. Patterson of Jamaica, and Sir James Mitchell of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, among others. Having attended several of those meetings with him, I know how his fellow Heads of Government respected and relied on his input at meetings; • His representation of the Virgin Islands at the US/CARICOM Summit in Barbados with President Bill Clinton; • His participation in and staunch support in the difficult and acrimonious Constitutional talks with the Government of the United Kingdom in 1984, which led to the introduction of the Territorial Seat, the so called At-Large Seat; • His love for his constituents, and the way in which he persisted in seeking to address even their smallest needs and concerns;

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• His regard and respect for women, especially widows. He kept a list of widows, which he upgraded regularly, and he always remembered them especially at Christmas; • His strong commitment to causes. When he decided to pursue a cause, he would see it through to the bitter end; • His sterling contribution to historical preservation. He appointed a Millennium Committee and allowed it to write a series of books on Virgin Islands History from AD 300 to 1999; • His strong social conscience and his regard for and commitment to civil society and organisations. One could always rely on his presence at an event, often sitting comfortably at the back of the room.

Honourable O’Neal was a man of many parts and varied interests. He remained an ordinary, humble man, and truly exemplified the man in Rudyard Kipling’s poem “If “.

A good conversationalist he was, a deep and contemplative man, gifted with a good memory and what seemed like abundant patience.

It has been an honour to know and to have had the privilege to work closely with Honourable Ralph Telford O’Neal in service of our beloved Virgin Island. I have learnt a great deal from him in many different ways and I pay tribute to his life and his work.

The commitment of Honourable Ralph Telford O’Neal, OBE to the tranquility, progress and welfare of the Virgin Islands and its people and to our sustainable development was beyond any doubt.

My husband Captain Baboucar M. Sallah, my siblings and our families join in paying tribute to this distinguished son of The Virgin Islands, and in extending deepest condolences to his widow Reverend Edris O’Neal, OBE and his entire family.

Dancia Penn, OBE, QC Former Deputy Premier and Minister for Health and Social Development

For over four decades, Mr. O’Neal worked tirelessly for the good of the Territory and its people. During what was a remarkable career, he made a significant and lasting impact that can still be felt on the British Virgin Islands.

LORD (TARIQ) AHMAD OF WIMBLEDON Minister of State for the Overseas Territories Prime Minister’s Special Representative on Preventing Sexual Violence in Conflict

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The Territory of the Virgin Islands has lost one of its greatest sons, the Honourable Ralph Telford O’Neal. His dedicated service to the people of this land has taken him through a very wide range of public and private sector duties, undertakings, community development, and also involvement in non-profit organizations. Few, if any, can match the breadth and depth of his civil involvement in service to his fellow Virgin Islanders. Many of us who are now considered seniors remember him as a teacher, and a civil servant who served in virtually all departments of Government, up to the highest levels. He made a positive difference, whatever the capacity, and the community benefited from his innovative and proactive approach. As a businessman he made significant contributions by providing essential services. In this regard, it is also very commendable that he gave professional support to numerous aspiring business persons of earlier years, some of whom have told of the information and advice he readily and freely gave to start them on the road to success.

Perhaps his best known service to our Virgin Islands community was political representation and leadership - for 40 years, with the distinction of serving as Chief Minister, and later as our first Premier. His record of public sector development in terms of infrastructure and social services is well known. As a former Speaker of the House it has been my privilege to serve in the Legislature with him in his role as Chief Minister, and I am able to attest to his dedication to better the lives of Virgin Islanders.

My family and I pray for God’s strength and peace for his entire family, and particularly at this time for his wife, Rev. Edris O’Neal, his daughters and son.

Reuben Vanterpool Former Speaker, Legislative Council of the Virgin Islands

Mr. O’Neal was a man like no other. His vision and talents were unremarkable. I do recall my first meeting with Mr. O’Neal, when he was the Minister for Natural Resources and Labor. I was still a student at university and visited him to discuss a matter. He listened very attentively and patiently as related my story. This was followed by much discussion. Little did I know that he was analyzing my political potential. However, at the conclusion of our meeting, he remarked, “One day you will run for politics”. That seed was planted and subsequently bore fruit in 2007, when I successfully contested the Fourth District seat as a Virgin Island Party candidate, and he became the First Premier of the Virgin Islands.

I reminded him of that conversation, and to my surprise, he vividly remembered. As a new member of the House of House of Assembly, he saw to it that I was well informed and ensured my familiarity with the parliamentary and legislative processes. I attended many overseas Parliamentary Association Conferences and accompanied him on many of his meetings to the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, Organization of Eastern Caribbean States and UK Overseas Territories, to name a few. His memory, patience, listening, analytical and diplomatic skills were admirable.

He won the respect of all around the table, as they often sought his opinion and suggestions on the way forward, on matters at hand. Our private debriefing was most enjoyable and rewarding, as we compared and shared notes, with some laughter, at our similar and different comments. He could enjoy a good laugh.

As a leader and great statesman, he exemplified the words of the author, “Wisdom is our Richest Wealth, Patience is our Strongest Weapon and Faith is our Best Security.” His service to Country, Humanity and Family, will forever be remembered by all whose lives he served and touched in a special way. I will forever cherish the many experiences of our great friendship and the pleasure has been mine to have served him in a rewarding and grateful way. He has certainly left this world a much better place than how he met it and has made an indelible mark on my life. I salute him and may his soul rest in eternal peace and light perpetual shine upon him.

Message Dr. V.G. Scatliffe and family (Bernet, Vinbert and Lucas)

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There is an old African saying that, “If the spirit world possesses nothing else, it has at least the power of its name.” Today, the Virgin Islands Party (VIP) pays tribute to a life and memories of Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal, OBE, Member Emeritus who was committed, persistent, brave, inclusive, wise, an excellent historian and Virgin Islander to the bone.

In 1995, following the sudden passing of the first Chief Minister Honourable Hamilton Lavity Stoutt, Honourable O’Neal without hesitation confidently stepped-up to lead not only VIP but this Territory as Chief Minister. We thank him for his visionary leadership and stewardship toward many victories at the polls and development of a modern BVI. While carrying the VIP Torch and candle, he believed in the potential of his people and the VI. He said that a Government must be compassionate to help its people to become owners of their destinies. He believed that bureaucratic rules should not burden the people and limit their potential, but rather make them self-sufficient and prosperous.

He worked hard with his team to ensure equal access to opportunities for Virgin Islanders, where they all enjoy the high standards of living, education, health, and justice. He often spoke about the role of the Government in facilitating commerce and encouraging businesses and individuals to create wealth, jobs, and income.

He was a strong advocate for development. He believed that the Government had the most critical leadership role to play in positioning the Virgin Islands on the various platforms of development in the 21st century. He often referred to globalisation as an opportunity, where Government was the best organisation through which the Virgin Islands could navigate the world’s landscape.

In terms of preservation and the protection of the natural assets and environment of the British Virgin Islands, Honourable O’Neal made his decisions with the understanding that assets be employed sustainably to provide benefits for future Virgin Islanders. He always said that development should be of the people, for the people and include the people.

He was also a firm believer that the Virgin Islands has much to gain from relevant regional and international relationships, and that as a Territory, we should only engage in such when they are mutually beneficial.

He loved his people of the VI. He found joy in consulting with the people on a full range of issues, and he took their participation and recommendations into consideration on several decisions. He believed in his heart that the best party for the present and future governance of the Virgin Islands was the Virgin Islands Party.

We thank his family for their commitment to him, for out of that commitment came his support for us and in turn, this Territory.

We will miss him dearly. At the same time, we will remember him talking with his pointing finger to the heavens as he spoke firmly and made no reservations in saying that the Virgin Islands Party exists to meet the hopes and aspirations of the people of the Virgin Islands. He stayed in tune with the people and the rest of the world to successfully navigate this country through challenges into triumph.

We say to his wife Reverend Edris O’Neal, OBE, his children and the rest of the family, thank you for looking into your hearts and thank you for looking into the future to share Honourable O’Neal with us. He was indeed the best leader for his time in history, and we thank him for leading the VIP ship with God’s grace. We will continue to carry the torch and carry the candle, for we are confident that when we do both, together, we will light up the world.

The name Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal, OBE, Member Emeritus will forever live in our hearts.

May his soul rest in eternal peace.

Honourable Andrew A. Fahie, Chairman Lemuel Smith, President 40

Tributes of Overseas Dignitaries

THE UNITED STATES VIRGIN ISLANDS OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR GOVERNMENT HOUSE

On behalf of the people and the Government of the Virgin Islands of the United States, I extend my deepest condolences to the people of the British Virgin Islands as they mourn the passing of the Honorable Ralph Telford.

O’Neal, OBE, Member Emeritus of the House of Assembly.

A great leader and pioneer in the educational, economic, cultural, and political development of the BVI, he served as the First Premier of the Virgin Islands with distinction. He remained a committed partner in our enduring efforts to keep close the bond between our Caribbean territories.

Mr. O’Neal’s legacy of activism and love for his native land will continue as an inspiration to all of us. An extraordinary educator, political mentor, community icon of service, and a family man, we truly understand your pride in his highly respected regional and global presence.

The people of the Virgin Islands of the United States pray that the memories shared by his wife, former First Lady Mrs. Edris O’Neal, OBE, his children, other family and friends, and by all Virgin Islanders will bring comfort and peace during this National Period of Mourning, and beyond, as you look back on a life well-lived.

May your beloved Ralph Telford O’Neal, OBE rest eternally in God’s loving arms.

Sincerely,

Albert Bryan Jr. Governor

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LEGISLATURE OF THE VIRGIN ISLANDS Honorable Novelle E. Francis, Jr. Senate President

I wish to extend my sympathies and condolences to the family and the people of the British Virgin Islands on the passing of your icon and political giant, the Honorable Ralph T. O’Neal.

The Honorable Ralph T. O’Neal came from very humble beginnings. Those same humble beginnings would propel him to one of the most distinguished and influential public careers in the history of British Virgin Islands politics.

Mr. O’Neal will be remembered as an agent of change in the British Virgin Islands, especially on his native island of Virgin Gorda. He began his illustrious career as a schoolteacher, positively affecting the lives and minds of many young people. One of his greatest accomplishments was to witness so many of his students contributing and giving back to the community that helped to shape them into productive citizens. As a Representative for the Ninth Electoral District and Premier, Mr. O’Neal worked tirelessly and selflessly on behalf of the people of the British Virgin Islands ensuring a brighter and most prosperous future for generations to come.

On behalf of the members of the 33rd Legislature, I extend heartfelt condolences to Mrs. O’Neal, the entire O’Neal family and the people of the British Virgin Islands on the passing of your native son and political giant, Ralph T. O’Neal. Mr. O’Neal has departed this life, but his spirit will live on with the people of the British Virgin Islands for many more years to come through his numerous contributions to his family and community.

Novelle E. Francis, Jr. Senate President 33rd Legislature of the Virgin Islands

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LEGISLATURE OF THE VIRGIN ISLANDS Honorable Kenneth L. Gittens Senator It is my pleasure to remember former British Virgin Islands Premier Ralph T. O’Neal and to extend my deepest sympathy to his family and friends and the greater British Virgin Islands Community as we all mourn his passing.

Growing up, I always admired Premier O’Neal for his leadership and his deep-seated love and respect for the people of the community he served. He was first elected to public office when I was a young boy. He managed to hold his seat continuously for 40 years, so I was able to watch him as I grew up and he earned the title of being the longest serving elected politician in the history of the British Virgin Islands.

He was a man of his word and was dedicated to the people of the British Virgin Islands. He was repeatedly victorious in his bids for office because he was innovative and was committed to moving the territory forward in his roles as chief minister, premier and even as opposition leader over the years.

My heart goes out to Premier O’Neal’s family and friends and the members of the British Virgin Islands government who have worked along side him for decades. The loss is a great one, but he has certainly left a legacy behind to follow. I wish peace and pray God’s strength on us all during this difficult time. May his soul Rest in Peace.

Jeremiah 31:16 - Thus says the LORD, “Restrain your voice from weeping and your eyes from tears; For your work will be rewarded. And they will return from the land of the enemy.”

Kenneth L. Gittens Senator 33rd Legislature of the Virgin Islands

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CARIBBEAN COMMUNITY Note No. 350 of 2019 The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Secretariat presents its compliments to the Office of the Premier, British Virgin Islands, and has the honour to request the latter’s kind assistance in transmitting the following message of condolence from the Secretary-General of CARICOM, Ambassador Irwin LaRocque to the Premier of the British Virgin Islands, Honourable Andrew Fahie on the death of the former Premier, Mr. Ralph T. O’Neal.

BEGINS: “Honourable Premier The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of the Honourable Ralph Telford O’Neal, OBE, former Premier of the British Virgin Islands (BVI).

Mr. O’Neal’s long and invaluable service to the Territory was highlighted by his becoming its first Premier when the Constitution was amended in 2007. He had previously served twice as Chief Minister and three times as Leader of the Opposition. He was the longest serving elected representative in BVI history.

The depth of respect that Mr. O’Neal earned was evidenced by the praises showered on him by all sides of the political divide when he became the first member of the House of Assembly in recent Virgin Islands history to have been bestowed with the title of Member Emeritus.

The contribution to his beloved BVI spanned much more than politics as he was involved in business, sport and virtually all aspects of the life of the Territory.

His was a voice that was also heard in support of regional integration, both at the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States and CARICOM. On behalf of the Community, I express deep condolences to his wife, Mrs. Edris O’Neal, OBE, his family and to the Government and People of the British Virgin Islands. The Territory has lost an iconic figure.”

ENDS The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Secretariat avails itself of this opportunity to renew to the Office of the Premier, British Virgin Islands the assurances of its highest consideration.

Turkeyeri Greater Georgetown 14th November 2019

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GOVERNMENT OF ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Immigration and Trade 840/2019 The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Immigration and Trade of Antigua and Barbuda presents its compliments to the Office of the Premier of the Virgin Islands and has the honour to request that the following message from The Honourable Gaston Browne M.P., Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda, be transmitted to the Honourable Andrew Fahie, Premier of the British Virgin Islands.

BEGINS “Dear Premier: On the passing of the Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal OBE, the Government and people of Antigua and Barbuda wishes to convey its sincerest condolences to the Government and people of the British Virgin Islands, especially to his family and friends.

The Late Honourable O’Neal illustrated his commitment to national development through his long-standing servitude to the British Virgin Islands. As the first Premier, his tenure and service were exemplary, and he will surely be missed but more notably, remembered as a stalwart.

Once again Premier, please accept my deepest condolences and my highest consideration.

Gaston Browne, M.P. Prime Minister” ENDS The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Immigration and Trade of Antigua and Barbuda avails itself of this opportunity to renew to the Office of the Premier of the Virgin Islands the assurances of its highest consideration.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Immigration and Trade St. John’s 14th November, 2019

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GOVERNMENT OF GRENADA Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Grenada Note No: 692/19 The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Grenada presents its compliments to the Office of the Premier of the British Virgin Islands in Road Town, and has the honour to request the latter’s assistance in transmitting the following condolence message from Prime Minister, Dr. The Right Honourable Keith Mitchell to the Honourable Andrew A. Fahie, Premier of the British Virgin Islands.

BEGINS Dear Colleague.

I was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of an outstanding son of the soil, the Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal.

In this regard and ahead of the National Day of Mourning on December 11th, 2019, the Government and people of Grenada extend their sincerest condolences to the family, loved ones, and people of the British Virgin Islands, as they mourn his passing during this period of bereavement.

It is my hope and prayer that the memories of the British Virgin Islands’ longest serving elected representative will remain long in the hearts and minds of all that knew and served with him, and that he would be remembered fondly for his outstanding contribution in service to those that he served.

Please be assured that our thoughts and prayers are with his family and we extend our very best wishes to the people of the British Virgin Islands during this grieving process.

Keith Mitchell Prime Minister ENDS The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Grenada avails itself of this opportunity to renew to the Office of the Premier of the British Virgin Islands in Road Town, the assurances of its highest consideration.

St. George’s Grenada

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Prime Minister Dr. the Honourable Timothy Harris of St. Kitts and Nevis extends his heartfelt sympathy to the people of the British Virgin Islands and the Caribbean on the passing of the Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal OBE, who died on Monday, 11th November, 2019 at the age of 85 years old. He was born on 15th December, 1933 in Virgin Gorda, BVI. The Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal OBE became the British Virgin Islands’ first Premier (2007–2011) when the BVI adopted a new Constitution, which introduced a Cabinet style of Government that saw the Chief Minister position replaced by and renamed Premier. He was credited as being one of the longest-serving Members of Parliament (1975–2015) in the English-speaking Caribbean.

In his early life, he received his education at St. Mary’s Anglican Elementary School in Virgin Gorda and the St. Kitts-Nevis Grammar School in St. Kitts before later attending a two-month course at the University of the West Indies and graduating from Trinity College, Oxford University in England. He graduated with two diplomas, gaining distinctions in both – one in Government and Political Science and the other in Economic Development; in the latter, he specialized in the study of the development of small countries.

“Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal OBE was an inimitable fixture in Caribbean politics and a flag bearer for the economic resiliency and prosperity of small islands,” Prime Minister Harris said today in reflecting on his remarkable legacy.

“We in St. Kitts and Nevis can count ourselves honoured to be inextricably linked to the Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal, OBE, as he spent some time at one of our elite schools, which served him well as a stepping stone to greatness,” the Prime Minister also said.

“Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal, OBE was responsible for a large swath of development in the BVI, spanning a diverse range of infrastructure and other capital projects, including clinics, police stations, roads, and schools. Indeed, just about every fabric of modern-day BVI society bears his thumbprint,” the Prime Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis added, while also noting that O’Neal’s VIP administration was responsible for the awarding of Crown lands that resulted in many BVI residents building their first homes.

Speaking at a ceremony held in 2010 to mark the government’s granting of freehold titles to land on the island of Anegada to 29 Anegadians, the late Premier, the Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal, OBE, said, “Today is a continuation of what was started some years ago. The process of getting land titles to everybody especially the young people, who can now say this is your own native land, is happening at a very opportune time. With your titles, you will be able to do very well, and I am working for every Anegadian to get a fair share of the pie.”

The BVI House of Assembly voted on 18th October, 2019 to rename the Central Administration Building after the Honourable Ralph O’Neal, OBE. The Prime Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis extends deepest condolences to the Honourable Ralph O’ Neal’s beloved wife, Reverend Edris O’Neal, OBE and four children, as well as to their extended family and the people of the BVI who join them in mourning his passing.

Dr. the Honourable Timothy Harris Prime Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis

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NEVIS ISLAND ADMINISTRATION OFFICE OF THE PREMIER

CONDOLENCE MESSAGE RALPH T. O’NEAL I wish to offer the sincere condolences of the Nevis Island Administration and the People of Nevis to the Government and people of the British Virgin Islands on the occasion of the passing of the Honourable Ralph Telford O’Neal OBE former Premier of the BVI. Mr. O’Neal was a long serving legislator who represented his beloved Virgin Gorda, the Ninth District, from 1975 to 2015, making him the longest serving Parliamentarian in the Commonwealth Caribbean and one of the longest in the entire British Commonwealth. His longevity in politics as a member and then leader of the Virgin Islands Party was due in no small part to the firm foundation of a solid Caribbean education which saw him attend High School in Basseterre, St Kitts as a well as in his firm commitment and resolute devotion to the ideals of democracy and good governance.

Mr. O’Neal was a teacher before he became immersed in politics and made strenuous efforts to ensure the modernization of schools and ensuring that the legacy of his predecessor who established the Community College in the BVI, was preserved and expanded.

We send our deepest sympathies to his wife Reverend Edris O’Neal, OBE, his four children and the entire BVI Community who mourn the passing of their fallen soldier elder statesman.

Honourable Mark Brantley Premier

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GOVERNMENT OF SAINT VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Commerce Our Ref: 000.2 Note No: 1041/2019 The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Commerce of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines presents its compliments to the Office of the Premier of the British Virgin Islands, and with sadness, conveys sincere sympathy to the Government of the British Virgin Islands on the passing of the Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal, OBE, first Premier and Member Emeritus of the House of Assembly of the British Virgin Islands. In this connection, the Ministry further conveys the following condolence message to the Government and People of the British Virgin Islands: BEGINS The Ministry on behalf of the Government and People of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines extends its heartfelt condolences to the Government of the British Virgin Islands during this period, on the passing of the Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal, first Premier and first Member Emeritus.

Honourable O‘Neal dedicated his life to the service of others and was a strong and principled member of Government for 40 years. The Ministry is cognisant of the life and legacy of the Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal; in all, he was a noble statesman and champion for democracy.

The Ministry conveys heartfelt sympathy to the family of the Honourable Ralph T. O‘Neal and prays God’s blessings and comfort on them during this time of mourning.

ENDS The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Commerce of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines avails itself of this opportunity to renew to the Office of the Primer of the British Virgin Islands, the assurances of its highest consideration.

Kingstown, Saint Vincent & The Grenadines November 19, 2019

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Tributes I wish to extend deepest condolences to the family, friends, loved ones, colleagues and the people and Government of the British Virgin Islands on the passing of former Premier, the Honorable Ralph T. O’Neal, OBE, the first and to date, longest serving Premier of the Territory.

Premier O’Neal had a long and illustrious career of devoted public service to the people of the British Virgin Islands.

A great deal of the economic, political and social advancement of the Territory took place as a result of his leadership and guidance.

The late Premier was a good friend of the United States Virgin Islands. During my tenure as governor we worked together cooperatively to build a closer relationship between the two neighboring territories which comprise the Greater Virgin Islands. He was a strong, astute political leader as well as a kind man who knew and loved his people well.

His legacy will live on. May his soul rest in peace.

Charles W. Turnbull, Ph.D. Former Governor US Virgin Islands Dear Rev. Edris O’Neal, It is with great sadness that I received the news of the passing of the man with much distinction, The Honorable Ralph T. O’Neal.

Edris, the little comfort I can offer you at this time of grief is the assurance that Ralph was loved and respected beyond the waters of the BVI. As you are aware, we both in our respective capacities, have had the opportunity to travel together to various conferences on the US mainland, representing our own distinctive governments. I can attest that when the doors were opened and Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal entered, his presence was felt with admiration and respect. He made the difference for the advancement of his Territory, and the people he represented, and was still so humble. There is no denying, much of the progress of Tortola and Virgin Gorda could be credited to Ralph.

We never know the day nor the hour, but Ralph’s soul is well as he did good while on earth, and God has a better place set aside for his assurance of peace.

To you, his children, extended family and all the people of the BVI, please accept my most sincere condolences.

As a reverend, you know very well, Revelation 21:4 “And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away”. Keep these words close to your heart and continue to be blessed.

Very truly yours,

Alicia Chucky Hansen Former Senator US Virgin Islands 50

In 1956 a small group of people met in St. George’s Parish Hall in Road Town to discuss the possibility of forming a branch of the Red Cross in the Virgin Islands. Among those present was a young 22 year-old named Ralph T. O’Neal. His interest in community service was already established and in 1960 he became the first Director of the BVI Red Cross serving under then President Mrs. Wendy Bryan. Ralph served in this capacity for several years and as his political career grew and flourished, he always found time to support and guide us as we grew as an organisation.

His contributions to the movement have been recognised both here in the BVI and within the British Red Cross and the International Federation of the Red Cross. We are very proud to call him a founding father. His lifelong support and service became a family affair when his wife Edris joined and served as Director from 1988 to 2010. The Branch has grown and expanded its’ offerings to the community over the years and now has a paid Director and staff, but when Ralph and Edris served, it was as volunteers.

On a personal note, Honourable O’Neal was a great mentor to me over the 20 years I have lived here. When I first started to work at the college, he took a special interest in supporting my programme in Maritime History and in developing the Maritime Museum at the Marine Centre. Over the years, he was always available for advice and six years ago when I joined the Board of the Red Cross he was there to support and guide me. He was a great friend, leader and unbelievably dedicated to the people and welfare of this great community.

On behalf of the Board, Director, staff and volunteers of the BVI Red Cross it is an honour to pay tribute to a founding father for his 63 years of outstanding service, support and above all, leadership. We will never forget Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal.

Geoffrey Brooks, Board Chairman, Red Cross British Virgin Islands Overseas Branch

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Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal, as Minister and Premier, helped the churches.

Our recollection is that he always attended invitations to visit the ecclesia.

Noteworthy for us is 1991, he was the Minister of Ecclesiastical Affairs, Officiating at the service, launching us into ministry in East End/Long Look.

Under his and Honourable L. Walters’ tenure much was done for BVI churches.

Righteously, more Pentecostal clergy began receiving marriage licenses, And this improved the spiritual, social and economic well-being of the nation.

Because the legislators and pastors exalted righteousness, sin was exposed.

Lay persons, sinners repented at altars and turned themselves into the police.

Everyone at URVC remembers the man who had accepted Jesus and Radically claimed he was free, before turning himself into Road Town Prison.

Any politician who blesses God’s agenda, exalts a nation (Prov.14:34).

Looking forward, we thank Honourable & Mrs. O’Neal, OBE, for helping ZCCR94.1FM. Please accept our deepest condolences, Mrs. O’Neal, OBE, Abby, and family.

Here was a man, who dedicated his life to serving the British Virgin Islands.

The Lord directed us in 2013 to host an appreciation service for the O’Neal’s.

On reflection, our obedience preceded his public office retirement of 2014.

Now we pray for the family, as we were saddened with news of his passing.

Eternally, we remember Honourable O’Neal as our first contributor to the ministry.

As Premier, he and his wife enabled our territorial anointing on ZCCR94.1FM, Liberating access through their property for the Gospel. God bless you both.

From:

Staff:

Bishop and Pastor Mervin and Rosilee Herbert, Pastor Bernicia Pickering; Pastor Roxanne Isaac Congregation of Upper Room Victory Church (URVC) Your Caribbean Christian Radio Station ZCCR 94.1FM Radio

Recieving an award from Pastor Mervin Herbert

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It is with deep sadness that we learned of the passing of the first Premier of the Virgin Islands, the late Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal, OBE. Honourable O’Neal deserves recognition for his lifelong contribution to the development of the Virgin Islands, particularly his unyielding commitment to the Seventh-day Adventist Churches and the BVI Seventh-day Adventist School.

It was on 19th March, 2017 that the BVI Seventh-day Adventist School showed appreciation to individuals whose contributions had been integral to the development of the institution; one such honouree was Honourable O’Neal, OBE. He was always a proponent of Adventist education, and supported the institution from its infancy in Carrot Bay. To us, he was a visionary, a great example to the future leaders of the Territory of the Virgin Islands. He often offered advice to the graduates of the said institution, reminding them that they have no choice but to be the next leaders of these beautiful Virgin Islands.

There is nothing in life that can prepare us for the death of a loved one. Whether it results from a sudden accident or a sustained illness, it always catches us off-guard. Death is so deeply personal and yet so stunningly final; nothing can emotionally prepare us for its arrival. But there is hope! In 1 Thessalonians 4:13, 14, it states, “But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him.” These words should be of great comfort to us all as Honourable O’Neal was also a man of God; he believed in the Lord, Jesus Christ, and his never-failing power.

On behalf of the British Virgin Islands Coordinating Council of Seventh-day Adventists, I offer sincere condolences to the family of the late Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal, OBE, the Members of the House of Assembly and to the Territory of the Virgin Islands. Going forward, we encourage the Government of the Virgin Islands to allow his legacy to live on. Continue to assert his zeal for development, his passion for national stability and his drive to ensure the prosperity of the people of the Virgin Islands.

Pastor Sylvester Williams Chairman BVI Coordinating Council of Seventh-day Adventists

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The late Honourable Ralph Telford O’Neal, Charter Member and Past President of the Rotary Club of Tortola, lived an exemplary life of public, political and community service to the people of the Virgin Islands.

As a public officer and the longest serving political figure in the Virgin Islands and perhaps in the region, I agree with a senior public officer that Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal was a “nation builder” with a mission to improve the lives of others, from our young people to our seniors.

Also, very importantly, Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal clearly appreciated the importance of community service to help fulfill some of the needs of the community, as well as to help build a strong sense of community. It therefore, must not have been a surprise that in January 1968, as a young but already senior civil servant, that he became one of 20 charter members of the Rotary Club of Tortola, which was sponsored by the Rotary Club of Hato Rey, Puerto Rico.

Today, the club boasts a membership of 86.

The dedication, leadership skills and immense talents of charter members like Past President Ralph and other Rotarians laid the foundation for a successful Rotary movement in the BVI with three Rotary two Rotaract, three Interact and several EarlyAct Clubs. The Rotary and Rotaract Clubs are recognized as some of the strongest clubs in Rotary District 7020 which consists of ten countries and 86 clubs.

In the first decade of the Club’s existence, Past President Ralph, like a few others served as President for two consecutive years. Although in 1975 he embarked on a successful and extremely demanding political career, he was always steadfast in honouring his membership obligations. He took part in Club projects and faithfully attended special functions. He was especially fond of the fun activities. Who can forget his hilarious contributions to the Christmas concerts in the 1980s when he would delight in dressing up as a typical BVI country lady going to market and would take part in the skits. This showed the playful side of Past President Ralph that really wowed the audiences at those shows.

As Past President Ralph is laid to rest, we rejoice that we had the benefit of his vision, dedication, passion and commitment for about fifty years, and we will remain grateful for his immense contributions to the growth and success we enjoy as a BVI Rotary Family. On behalf of the Rotary Club of Tortola, the BVI Rotary Family, Rotary District 7020, my husband, Past Assistant Governor, Audley, I wish to extend heartfelt condolences to Mrs. Edris O’Neal, Rotarian Abby O’Neal and the entire family on the passing of Past President Ralph Telford O’Neal. We are also grateful that Abby, our Rotary District Social Media Coordinator; and son-in-law, Past President Honourable Vincent Wheatley, will help to carry on his rich Rotary legacy of “Service Above Self.

Delma Maduro, District Governor, Rotary International District 7020

Enjoying time with friend from Rotary

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During the time in the early nineteen fifties when Ralph T. O’Neal taught in the East End Methodist School, now the Willard Wheatley Primary School, we were enrolled in that School. The enrollment was over 300 and comprised of students from East End, Long Look, Hope Estate and Brandy Wine Bay. Willard Wheatley, the Headmaster, assigned him to the Upper Division of the School (classes Five, Six and Seven) since he was being trained to be the headmaster of another school somewhere in the British Virgin Islands. Naturally, Teacher Ralph was assigned to classes Five and Six while Willard Wheatley taught class Seven and supervised the entire school from the eastern end of the school.

To understand the role of number two in an elementary school in the nineteen forties and fifties, one would need to read all the Methodist and Anglican schools documents of the time. The methodist managers ruled with an iron rod of correction. They could make or break you.

It is in this rigid atmosphere that Teacher Ralph was groomed. With a St. Kitts/Nevis Grammar School education, the firm discipline from older siblings, and with the Virgin Gorda community and East End Village influences, he should have become a stern teacher but he was just the opposite. He received love and he shared love and caring for his students. His aim was to teach his students facts, figures and application methods that would last them a lifetime and he did so successfully.

Telephones were ringing all over the world where his students or their off-springs live, with the message- Teacher Ralph has died. Many would reply, Teacher Ralph who taught me? And their children would say “no way, that could not be the same Teacher Ralph who taught you ‘just after Noah built the ark’”.

This great man was so many things to so many people and in so many places that it is humanly impossible to pay him the respect he deserves. His students will always talk about him. He loved, cared, and worked as his heavenly father, and his solid upbringing led him. May his soul rest in eternal peace.

Two students, Jennie and Charles Wheatley

“Men judge us by the success of our efforts, but God looks at the efforts themselves” (Charlotte Bronte) On behalf of the children and descendants of the late James and Ovilda “Barry” Matthias, we extend our deepest condolences to the family of the late Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal, OBE, MLC, JP, first Premier of the Virgin Islands, former Leader of the Opposition and Member Emeritus.

The late Honourable Ralph O’Neal played a vital role in the development of the Virgin Islands but especially for the people of Sage Mountain and the surrounding areas. He was also a driving force behind the development of the National Park at Sage Mountain.

The late Honourable Ralph O’Neal was a beacon for the Matthias and Mactavious families throughout the years. His lifelong journey has ended, his accomplishments here on earth are over. May God shine his perpetual light upon him and grant him eternal rest.

“I am of the opinion that my life belongs to the country and as long as I live; it is my privilege to do for it whatever I can.” (George Bernard Shaw) Rest in peace Uncle Ralph. From your brothers: Howard, Reginald, Joseph, and Edward Matthias.

Yvonne Mactavious (on behalf of the Matthias and Mactavious families) 55

Premier O’Neal and the late Honourable Omar Hodge at Virgin Gorda Fisherman’s Wharf Groundbreaking Ceremony

Premier O’Neal led delegation to Florida, USA to present BVI Badge of Honour to Mr. Noel Lloyd

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Honourable O’Neal with former US Virgin Islands Governor Dr. Charles Turnbull

Contract signing with local contractors Messrs. Ogan Baronville and Alcedo Hodge

Honourable O’Neal at Farmers’ Week 2000

Honourable O’Neal with Mother of the Year, Evelyn Christopher

Premier O’Neal and former Governor Boyd McCleary

Premier O’Neal after contract signing for solid waste collection throughout the Territory

Opening Ceremony, Plastic Surgeons’ Workshop

Second Sitting of the First House of Assembly for the Speech From The Throne

Premier O’Neal at BVI Social Security Board’s Pensioners Day on Virgin Gorda

Premier visited by Robinson O’Neal Memorial Primary School students

Contract Signing for the Development of Virgin Gorda Airport

Former Cayman Islands’ Premier McKeeva Bush (left), Honourable O’Neal and Anguilla’s Former Chief Minister Hubert Hughes (right)

Premier O’Neal at London Office with former Director Dawn Smith, Mrs. O’Neal and former Permanent Secretary Rosalie Adams

Courtesy Call on Premier Ebenezer Thomas Primary School Stage Two

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Thanks and Appreciation

The Family of the late Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal, OBE, Member Emeritus, wishes to express our thanks and appreciation to the many friends, supporters and well wishers, for all your expressions of sympathy, prayers and support given in this period of bereavement.

You have shared our grief in so many ways: visits, cards, notes, messages of concern, provided assistance, prayers, flowers and telephone calls. We sincerely appreciate all of your expressions of love and support during this difficult time.

We appreciate everything that you have done and ask that you continue to lift the family up before our God. We also express thanks to the doctors and nurses of Peebles Hospital for the service you gave to our loved one.

We extend a special thank you to the management and staff of Davis Funeral Home Tortola Memorial Service; the Speaker, Members and staff of the House of Assembly; and the Government of the Virgin Islands.

May God continue to bless and guide you all.

The O’Neal Family

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