‘We’ve lost an extensive human library’

Prime Minister Andrew Holness has described the passing of protocol and logistics expert Colonel Merrick Needham as a monumental loss not only for his family, but for the nation.

Needham, who celebrated his 89th birthday six days ago, died on Thursday at the University Hospital of the West Indies from an undisclosed illness.

In 2018, he created history when he became the first Jamaican to receive an honorary commission from the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) in recognition of his participation in numerous military activities and support for decades.

Needham, who held numerous honours, including the Order of Distinction (Commander Class), was a key figure at national events.

In a tribute to the revered protocol and ceremonial consultant, Holness hailed Needham as a “passionate Jamaican nationalist” with a reservoir of knowledge, which he generously shared.

“Colonel Needham was exceptionally knowledgeable, providing expert leadership and direction at innumerable national events over decades. His deft application of knowledge, including to the Jamaica Defence Force, earned him a historic honorary commission,” Holness said in a social media post.

“His commitment to Jamaica was particularly evident as he demonstrated it in all areas of his life and vocation. His expertise, guidance, and [counsel] will be severely missed,” he added.

The prime minister attested to benefiting personally from Needham’s advice, which he gave freely, honestly, objectively, and sincerely, noting that Needham also sat on many committees.

“We have lost an extensive human library of resources and a man who was truly good, through and through,” Holness said.

“May his family find peace and comfort during this difficult time, and even as they grieve this monumental personal loss, remember with satisfaction the quality of life he lived and the difference he made for so many,” he added.

Veteran journalist and lecturer Fae Ellington recalled Needham being a no-nonsense individual who was very willing and kind.

The broadcaster, who has covered countless state events, also credited him for imparting knowledge about national and JDF protocols to her.

“Merrick Needham played a significant role in helping to shape who I am in terms of understanding issues and matters of protocol on two levels, with an event such as the National Honours and Awards Ceremony, which is held annually at King’s House, but also with the JDF. For things like the change of command, he would be the person who would be there as the orator, and I was privileged and honoured for him to have accepted me to work alongside him to learn that craft, which I now do for the JDF,” Ellington said.

Ellington also shared that Needham had also schooled her in the protocols for social events and dining, in which she learned about wines.

“So he really helped to shape my life as a professional in the industry, and I am grateful to him for all the support he gave and the opportunities he created,” she told The Gleaner.

Ellington also lauded Needham for the exemplary values and standards that he demonstrated, which she said must be celebrated.

“Let us celebrate the excellence and standards that he set that if you wanted to learn, you could learn from, and I hope that those of us who are left will indeed carry on the legacy by ensuring that the values he supported, lived by, and worked by that we will do so, too,” she added.

Ellington extended condolences to Needham’s children and widow, Camille, who she says has described him as a kind, loving, and supportive husband.

tanesha.mundle@gleanerjm.com