Fellow Citizens, Residents and Youth:
Our nation has been plunged into mourning having learned of the passing of our fourth Governor-General, Sir Samuel Weymouth Tapley Seaton GCMG CVO KC JP LLD. Sir Tapley who for several decades served his country valiantly, embodied key principles including respect, fairness and a love for law and justice which served as an inspiration for all. These were principles that he sought always to impart to us as SKNYPArians as well as the wider community. Like many before him, he was an avid supporter of young people finding every opportunity to inspire and advance the development of our nation’s youth, particularly during his tenure in our country’s highest office.
Prior to his service as Governor-General, Sir Tapley contributed diligently to the growth of SKNYPA, lending support through the provision of legal advice, assistance with legislative drafting and reviewing items proposed for debate at Sittings of the Youth Parliament. During discussions and courtesy calls, he vividly recounted his early support to the Association as well as his commendation for the continuous work of SKNYPA. In the early 2000s, Sir Tapley was named an Honourary Member of the SKNYPA, thereafter contributing time and time again to our collective advancement.
Outside of the youth sphere, his dedication as a young Attorney drew him to serve as our nation’s first and youngest Attorney General from 1980 to 1995. His love for community, service and volunteerism will forever be cherished as we remember the life he led. Additionally, we note his commitment to his dream of ensuring that the Government House truly existed as “The People’s House.” This commitment could be noted by the frequent events hosted there under his auspices, the numerous visits by youth groups while for SKNYPA, his unwavering will to open the doors to opportunities figuratively and physically. Sir Tapley’s love for youth development could perhaps be said to be rivaled only by his abiding commitment to preserving the historical gems of our islands.
His support then for groups like the St. Christopher National Trust in addition to his service on several National Committees, Boards and companies comes as no surprise given his tenacity for embracing the stories that have shaped our land.
And so, as we bid farewell to one of our illustrious sons of the soil, SKNYPA pays homage to the resilience, strength, and determination of the man that was known simply to many of us as Sir Tapley. The St. Kitts National Youth Parliament Association wishes to extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of our former Governor-General. We pray that during this difficult time, strength from our Almighty Father may comfort you as you cherish the legacy of an astute, powerful yet inspiring individual.