Governor Kenneth Mapp has ordered that all Virgin Islands Government buildings fly flags at half-staff in honor of former Senate President Bingley G. Richardson, Sr., who died on May 27. Mr. Richardson served in the 17th 18th and 20th Legislatures.
Flags are to remain at half-staff until sunset on June 10 following services scheduled for that day for the late Senate president, according to Government House.
Mr. Mapp reiterated his message of condolence to the family and friends of Mr. Richardson.
“He will live on in the annals of Virgin Islands history and in the memories of all those whose lives he touched,” Mr. Mapp said. “Bingley and I served together in the 20th Legislature of the Virgin Islands, when he was Senate President. While we served on opposite sides of the aisle, the president served with distinction, respecting all members of the Senate. He was committed to protecting both our civil rights and economic interests and he deeply loved the Virgin Islands and its people. My thoughts and prayers remain with his loved ones during this time of mourning. May his soul rest in peace.”
Senate President Bingley G. Richardson, Sr.,
Senator Janette Millin Young described Mr. Richardson as one who fought for the people.
“We knew Bingley as a conscientious activist, a fighter for the protection of our prized marine resources, and as a spokesman for cultural pride,” Mrs. Millin Young said.
“He educated and mobilized Virgin Islanders to protect their beaches. He ensured access to all Virgin Islanders to enjoy our natural resource. Today, our beaches and marine environment are sacred ground for Virgin Islanders who call this territory their home. He called for a Marine Institute to train Virgin Islanders to be integral participants in the marine industry.
“With his contribution, I was inspired to sponsor Bill 31-0017 that specifically mandates that the Commissioner of Tourism create a strategic plan, marketing program, education, and other public policy measures to ensure that Virgin Islanders enjoy our marine resources and earn handsome returns. It was the foundation of giants like Bingley who campaigned for our inclusion of our marine natural resources and mobilized public support to ensure our input made our current marine industry feasible,” Mrs. Millin Young added.
The viewing and funeral service arrangements for Senator Richardson are as follows:
- Memorial tributes and reflections will take place on Thursday, June 8, 2017 from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. in the Earle B. Ottley Legislative Hall; St Thomas.
- Senate President Richardson will Lie in State for public viewing on Friday, June 9, 2017, from 4:00 p.m. -7:00 p.m.
- The funeral service will be on Saturday, June 10, 2017 at 10:00 a.m. at the Christchurch Methodist Church Market Square.
Tags: Bingley G. Richardson
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