Source: Erasmus Williams FB
CHARLESTOWN, NEVIS — The Browne family and the wider Nevisian community are mourning the loss of respected education pioneer Franklyn Browne, who passed away on Sunday at the age of 97 — less than 48 hours after his younger brother, legendary pharmacist Wilmoth Browne, was laid to rest in Basseterre.
The two brothers were separated in death by only days, following Wilmoth Browne’s funeral at Springfield Cemetery on Friday.
Local commentator Everton Powell described the loss as deeply saddening, noting Mr Browne’s immense contribution to education in Nevis.
Born in Camps Village, Nevis, Franklyn Browne’s academic excellence earned him opportunities to study abroad at Erdiston Teachers’ Training College in Barbados and later at Cumberland University in England. He began his teaching career in 1943 as a 15-year-old pupil teacher and went on to serve the profession for four decades. In 1983, he retired as a headteacher, having positively impacted generations of students across the island.
Beyond his educational legacy, Mr Browne was also a survivor of the tragic MV Christena disaster of August 1, 1970 — the worst maritime tragedy in the history of the Federation and the Eastern Caribbean. The sinking claimed the lives of more than 220 Nevisians, many of them breadwinners.
Mr. Browne survived the tragedy along with his son, Roger. Reports indicate that he swam to Nevis with his son and was among the first to bring news of the disaster to the island. He later recounted that while struggling in the water, he was inspired by a vision of his young daughter, Veta, encouraging him to keep fighting for his life. That inspiration, he said, strengthened his resolve to survive so he could see her again.
Franklyn Browne leaves behind an enduring legacy of service, resilience, and dedication to the people of Nevis.
May his soul rest in eternal peace.