News

The Cayman Islands Government announced today that the national flag displayed at all Government buildings will be flown at half-mast on Friday, 6 August in honour of Mr. Wellesley Howell, who passed away on 23 July at the age of 106. 

Mr. Howell was the oldest person in the Cayman Islands. A shoemaker and saxophonist, he was renowned and beloved as great contributor to the community through his craftsmanship and music. 

Born in Chesterfield, St. Mary, Jamaica on 7 January 1915, Mr. Howell first came to the Cayman Islands in 1958 as a musician. After marrying is wife Alma, who passed away in 2012, Mr. Howell settled permanently in Cayman to raise his family. He earned his living as a shoemaker, with his shop becoming a well-known George Town landmark. 

Mr. Howell never gave up his love of music, and played his beloved saxophone right up to the days preceding his passing. 
A tribute issued by the Council of Older Persons said, "Mr. Howell showed us how to live a blessed and meaningful life: be friendly; motivate others; love and support our families; and to take time to do what we enjoy."

Mr. Howell's funeral will take place Saturday, 7 August at the First Baptist Church on Crewe Road. The viewing will be from 1:30pm-2:30pm with the service immediately following.