JTA, JIS sad at the passing of Gleaner journalists

The Jamaica Teachers' Association (JTA) and the Jamaica Information Service (JIS) have added their voice to the expressions of sadness at the passing of journalists Gary Spaulding and Glenroy Sinclair.

The JTA described them as men devoted to helping others to hone their skills in the field of journalism and who informed and educated their countrymen on a wide range of activities and issues, but particularly those that had to do with crime and politics.

Chief Executive Officer of the JIS Donna-Marie Rowe said: "We grieve with our colleagues in the media fraternity. When the news came to us in a meeting on Monday, it was a significant blow ... . It was staggering. Our minds then raced towards his sister, Nadia, who works in our finance department.

"Gary's work at the JIS and in journalism was stellar and our hearts go out to the Gleaner family at this time as they grieve the loss of two of their stalwarts."

Deputy Chief Executive Officer Ian Boyne, in his tribute, noted that Spaulding "was a good and genuine soul".

"He was pleasant, not cantankerous, nor belligerent. He was never one to brag or to detract from his colleagues' success. While competitive - mainly with himself - he would never give you the impression that he was better than anyone else.

"We will miss him deeply but will always treasure his memory. His passing, as well as Glenroy Sinclair's, has left a void in our profession. May God be with us at this extraordinary time of grief."

GLOWING TRIBUTES

Others employees of JIS also spoke glowingly about Spaulding.

Enthrose Campbell, director of production who was manager for radio, said when Spaulding joined the department, he immediately made an impact and became the point man for information on parliamentary procedures and related matters.

Godfrey Barnes, managing editor, remembered him as a consummate professional who took pride in his work.

Lorraine Walker Mendez, radio manager, recalled that Spaulding took her under his wings when she interned at RJR, where he worked for several years.

Andrea Braham, public relations manager, noted that with his death, Jamaica has lost a true professional.

Said Andrine Davison: "Those who worked with him knew his passion and drive for excellence. He was certainly one of those persons to look to as a standard bearer in the profession."

Radio editor and friend Athaliah Reynolds Baker said that Spaulding was not only a talented journalist, but a truly generous human being.