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That Man is A Success

March 8, 2021
by Kevin Joseph
My sincere condolences to the Joseph family, near and far.

Permit me to say a few words about Clarvis - my colleague, friend and mentor.

Clarvis was undoubtedly one of the kindest and most generous persons I have ever met. Whether for business or for cricket his hospitality was unmatchable. He was a fearless and honest business man who always told it like it was and encourage others to stand up for what they believed and wanted. Every conversation was a moment of learning, be it the business of shipping/Caribseas, cricket or his stories about Africa - he had the ability to hold one’s attention while sharing life lessons. He was also a nationalist who held Antigua in the highest esteem.

In 2004 when I was thinking about starting my own business, he encouraged me to do so and assured me that I can count on him for advice and guidance. I thank him for the support which has stood me in good stead up to today.

A business man, sports administrator, nationalist, Caribbean man, friend and mentor. Truly "a man for all seasons'. For all the memories and milestones he had left, the below Robert Louis Stevenson's poem " that man is a success" best describes him for me.

That Man is a Success by Robert Louis Stevenson
That man is a success
who has lived well,
laughed often and loved much;
who has gained the respect of intelligent men and women
and the love of children;
who has filled his niche and accomplished his task;
who leaves the world better than he found it,
who has never lacked appreciation of Earth’s beauty
or failed to express it;
who looked for the best in others,
and gave the best he had.
To those whose lives he has touched I know he would want us to celebrate his life, by emulating some aspects of his to achieve our own successes. As such I leave you with the thoughts of the attached second poem.

Until we meet again, rest in power my friend.

Best regards,

Norman Rice
Managing Director
Premier World Cargo Inc.
St. Michael, Barbados



Tribute to Clarvis from Ken Benjamin

March 8, 2021
by Kevin Joseph
Dear Doc, Kevin and Damon,
It saddens me that I am unable to bid farewell to my friend and big brother in person. So, after much thought, I have decided to send my reflections in just a brief personal letter.
Clarvis/your Dad was introduced to me by the late Gregory 'Peppers' Lewis/Christiani of Waterchris in Georgetown, Guyana prior to my moving to  Antigua in 1988. When I got to Antigua, he took me under his wing and was at pains to make me feel welcome. I was allowed into his inner circle of friends and acquaintances and we spent many hours together at your home and later at his Caribseas office.
Clarvis schooled me on the qualities of being Antiguan and the virtues of Antigua, his homeland of which he was extremely proud and fiercely patriotic. Often times, we met on Saturday afternoons at the home of the late Devon Walter in St. John's where we ate black pudding. (He never did forgive me for not developing a taste for maw). There was immmersed in deep discussions on Antiguan politics and treated to a lively commentary on Antiguan history and personalities. He was quite appreciative of the time his career took him to Guyana and I heard all about his stint as an educator on the Essequibo Coast, boasting that he taught a young lady who went on to star at the Miss World contest. Of his days at Demba/Guyba, he spoke at length with many anecdotes and life stories.
Later, he insisted that I join the Antigua Cricket Association where he was instrumental in me becoming an executive member. I was able to be part of a unique band of dedicated volunteers who mounted Test Cricket in Antigua at the ARG. He worked tirelessly, never failing to let his influence and experience be felt by showing bold leadership and by the strategic use of Antiguan vernacular. The understanding of such language peculiar to Antigua would serve me well in Court. 
His inner circle included friends like Dorbrene 'Fats' and the late George "Junie" Goodwin, at whose 'country estate' we spent many late nights engaged in spirited discussions on regional politics and debate on Caribbean development. 
While I was assigned to the BVI, I sought his assistance in reviving cricket on Tortola. Without hesitation, he enabled technical support from the ACA and the WICB and visited upon my invitation to show Leewards Islands' commitment to the effort.
I last communed with my friend in March 2019 when we met for lunch and shared a few laughs and a bit of heckling.
Though my duties took me away from Antigua, we remained in contact. I was frequently his guest when I visited for cricket and on one occasion I was able to get together with him when he visited Grenada.
Most of all, I cherished the fact that he and Pat (Doc) freely admitted myself, Paula nd my children, Alana and Kenny, as members of your family. For that, I would always be grateful as I received invaluable advice and emotional and other support in times of difficulty. 
There can be no doubt that Clarvis has made his mark in his time on God's earth.
I speak for myself, Paula and our children when I say with all sincerity that Clarvis has earned the right to rest in peace. 
May he rise in glory.
Our heartfelt condolences are extended.
With much love and appreciation.
- Ken

Tribute from Millicent Byrne & family

March 8, 2021
by Kevin Joseph
Dear Pat, Kevin, Damon and beloved members of your families,
Ever since my children Julian and Dara, along with their respective families and I heard that Clarvis was hospitalized and subsequently transitioned, our hearts have been with you, though, never more so than today as you prepare to celebrate his consequential life and say your final goodbyes tomorrow. Our regret is that we cannot be there physically to support you as you have done for us in the past. Alas, these are the times we are in. 
Clarvis will always hold a special place in our memory. He was a wonderful brother-in-law to my late husband Keith. Clarvis was always generous of spirit, eager to share sage advice and to open his vast network to others. We remain indebted to him along with you, Pat, for helping to open doors for Keith upon his return to Guyana in 1971. His appointment to the then newly nationalized Guyanese bauxite industry, where both of you already worked, undoubtedly resulted, in part, from your efforts.  Similarly, both of you encouraged me to apply to teach at Mackenzie High School in Linden, one of the joys of my life. 
As the first of the brothers-in-law that I met and the one who lived near us on Riverside Drive in Watooka, Clarvis was inevitably the one I came to know best.  Perhaps our bond was also derived from the parallels in our lives; both being from Caribbean islands fitting into a vast new country and family. Clarvis had a head-start with this experience so he was a lantern that lit a path to follow. I am eternally grateful for the example he set for integrating into the Byrne/Payne family and for settling into Guyana.
My most vivid memories of Clarvis are set in the 1970s before the Joseph family left Guyana to settle in Antigua.  One such memory was of accompanying him on car trips along the breezy East Coast of Demerara to end up in the environs of the Mon Repos campus of the Guyana School of Agriculture. There, he introduced us to the food products available from the garden and livestock farms. More significant, he also introduced us to a sculptor experimenting with carving charred wood. We bought two sculptures that became the start of our collection of Guyanese art and which have always been a constant reminder of Clarvis. Those pieces will resonate now more than ever. 
Another memory seared in my mind revolves around souse. Following some purchases at Mon Repos, Clarvis planned to make that dish for a gathering. He  knew that I was looking forward to the much trumpeted souse he was going to prepare. It was an honour to be offered one of the first servings, which I eagerly dug into only to discover, to my dismay, that souse, which Jamaicans call trotters, could consist of parts other than the feet. As a result, to this day, whenever offered souse, I cautiously ask, “What’s it made with?” 
We also remember Clarvis’s passion for cricket, which dovetailed with mine and Keith’s. We were not surprised that he went on to serve as Vice President of the West Indies Cricket Board, one of his many accomplishments.  
With the Josephs settling in Antigua and this branch of the Byrnes moving to Trinidad and then relocating to Canada, interaction inevitably became less frequent. Damon’s wedding in Antigua was a wonderful opportunity for Julian, Dara and I to reconnect with the Josephs and for Julian’s wife Tara, along with their then baby son Mahaica and Dara’s then baby daughter Seyla to meet them. On our last day in Antigua, classic Clarvis, always hospitable, insisted that we stop by the house before leaving to sample the special dish he was cooking, never mind the trip to the airport would end up being hurried and harried.  It was an offer we couldn’t refuse and we're glad we didn't for it turned out to be the last time that we would see him. It is a joyous memory to have.
The epitome of a people's person, smart and savvy, even tempered, laid back, warm, hospitable, kind, helpful and supportive, Clarvis Joseph is a man my late husband Keith and I along with our son Julian and daughter Dara were truly blessed to have known. 
Walk good, Clarvis! 
With love, 
- Millie 



Condolences from Corah Ann Robertson Sylvester

March 7, 2021
by Kevin Joseph
Dear Mrs. Joseph and Family, 
I know you may not know me, but I feel as if I know you, as Clarvis spoke of you often. I was Clarvis' colleague from Seaboard Jamaica for many years. I am deeply saddened by the news of your loss. His passing is a big loss to me also. 
Clarvis and I had a great friendship. He was a mentor, a man of reason and a friend of Seaboard Jamaica. If I had a problem, I could reach out to him at any time and he would walk me through it. 
I spent a lot of time with him at the Caribbean Shipping Association (CSA) meetings where I was a past president. When he came to Jamaica for cricket or we would go anywhere else in the world on shipping business we would eat and shop together. We shared a love of art, and along with Trevor Chan Pak and Noel Ramdass we would appreciate and buy pieces of art. Many of my treasured art was bought on the encouragement of Clarvis. When I was hesitating about the price he would say, "Gurl buy the damn ting." I have years of memories, from the days with Bob Schicci, Noel Ramdass, Trevor Chan Pak, Tom Paelink, Marge Detardo, Robert Bell, Stephen Bell, and Elizabeth Sale-Chin. 
I learnt a lot from Clarvis about the Caribbean, especially when he shared his experiences when he lived in Guyana and Jamaica. What is clear is that Clarvis was a Caribbean man through and through. He believed in the region, believed in the people of the region, and the great things the Caribbean people achieved and could achieve. He has left a long legacy especially to the people he mentored and the lives he touched. 
It was an honor to have known such a great person and I will truly miss him. May you find comfort during this difficult time. Gone too soon. 
Yours faithfully, 
Corah Ann Robertson Sylvester 

Tribute from Caribseas Ltd.

March 7, 2021
by Kevin Joseph
Dear Ms. Joseph,
It is with a great sense of sadness when we learned of the passing of your devoted and loving husband Clarvis
As you are aware Clarvis was one of a group of indigenous Antiguans who started Caribseas Shipping Agency over the past 30 years.
Clarvis served as Managing Director of the company for 25 of those 30 years and played a major role in charting its course in becoming a successful business venture. He also nurtured a number of individuals and had given them the opportunity to develop and excel in their chosen area of work. He was a no nonsense person and always reminded his employees to be efficient and productive at all times and to continue to build on their knowledge and to become successful individuals. Clarvis loved his employees and they loved him in return. His doors were always open to them whenever they needed his advice.
His service and contribution to Caribseas in his various capacities over the 25 years he served the Company is very much appreciated and will be remembered.
On behalf of the Shareholders, Board of Directors, Management and Staff we convey sincere condolences to you and the rest of the family. We trust that the good Lord will give you the strength and courage during this difficult period of sorrow and grief
Yours truly,
Kenrick Isaac
Secretary
Caribseas Ltd.

Tribute to Sir Clarvis Joseph

March 7, 2021
by Kevin Joseph
  •  by Peter Walters
I was introduced to Clarvis by Pauline Stone- Myrie some 20 years ago on my first trip to Antigua to watch cricket. My first impression was that Clarvis was “Large and in Charge”. This impression was further solidified when I travelled alone to Antigua the following year. Not being in possession of pertinent information on arrival at the airport, I told the  Immigration officer that I was a guest of Clarvis Joseph and without any other questions, he wrote my address as care of Clarvis Joseph.
Over time, I got to appreciate his knowledge of and passion for Caribbean Cricket. He was very intimate with the factors for success and consistently bemoaned the lack thereof in the recent past.
Clarvis was a erudite speaker and very confident. He would speak his mind irrespective of the consequence. He was a very successful businessman with a love of family second to none  
Clarvis was generous to a fault. He shared his friends and family with his inner circle. As a result,  I met some cricket lovers from Bermuda, Florida, Barbados, Trinidad and Jamaica to name a few. “The Jamaican Posse’s”,  visits to Antigua is full of such great memories which we tried to selfishly to guard by saying “ what goes on in Antigua, stays in Antigua” Our good friend Rhona Mclean made that impossible. He will be sadly missed by all with only the good memories to cheer us on
To Pat and the rest of the family, we say thank you for allowing us to share in a most beautiful life. Please accept our most sincere condolences and I pray that God will give you the strength to cope with this significant loss
May his soul rest in peace.
.

ODE To J.H. Clarvis Joseph

March 7, 2021
by Kevin Joseph
  • By Melvin R. Edwards (St. Lucia)
1975 must have been the year. On a Jaycees Convention held in Basseterre but with instructions from Dorbrene O'marde, he reached out to me…. and a side-bar encounter changed life’s history. 
A history graduate from UWI with an unswerving belief in the vast possibilities of the Caribbean Nation, Clarvis’s early exposure to corporate management while working in Guyana (late 60s-early 70s) placed him ahead of his peers as a trainer and business consultant. 
The multi-faceted expertise of this prolific reader, patient listener and articulate intellectual became highly valued by executives of Health Ministries, State Corporations, the Banking Community, the region’s small hoteliers and by former Prime Ministers of Dominica and Antigua and Barbuda. He was, like some of us, a LIAT and BWEE “junkie” for more than 4 decades. C. Joseph’s voluntary work to strengthen the region’s Chambers of Industry and Commerce and, subsequently, to modernise the governance of West Indies Cricket elevated his consummate skills as a strategist and negotiator to the global level.     
Through all this he remained a devout Antiguan, loyal to his roots in “Point”, grounded with his countless friends and, above all, glued to his family. I am grateful to you, Dr. Marleen “Pat” Joseph, for sharing with me another brother. Olive and I are honoured to have been invitees to your 50th Wedding Anniversary and by your attendance at our daughter’s wedding in Barbados 3 years earlier. May these words, adapted from a Trinidadian Poet mourning her own husband’s passing, bring Kevin, Damon, the grandchildren and yourself solace in the days and nights ahead:
“Just yesterday we taught our boys to lead a humble life
To choose the good, and avoid the path of strife;
Just yesterday my house was full,
Today it is very empty;
Just yesterday he called my name
Today there’s nothing left but a memory.
Sometimes I feel lonely, sometimes I feel blue
But I am only human, and God knows it too.”  

 “Just Yesterday” by Hilen Alexander, Poetically Speaking – Poems from the Heart, October 2011

A Tribute to Clarvis Joseph

March 5, 2021
by Kevin Joseph
Tribute by: Amb. Kingsley C.A. Layne, C.M.G.
I join with his multitude of friends, associates and colleagues in his native Antigua and Barbuda, the wider Caribbean and beyond, in mourning the passing, and celebrating the life of one who strove to advance the interests and well-being of his beloved Caribbean, in diverse areas of endeavor, through the dedicated utilization of his many-faceted skills and expertise.
Clarvis Joseph was a quintessential man of the Caribbean. An alumnus of the Antigua Grammar School, and the University of the West Indies (U.W.I. Mona, Jamaica), where he met his wife andmlifelong companion, Pat, a Guyanese medical student, he was a proud repository of the cultural mores and historical evolution of both institutions. He often said that the Caribbean is his home, and Antigua his permanent address.
As a long-standing member of the Jaycees, a management and human resource development specialist, businessman, public interest advocate, sports administrator, vice-president of the West Indies Cricket Board, cultural aficionado, be it Carnival, jazz, calypso or steelband, he travelledextensively and enjoyed the region to the max. He will be greatly missed by those who knew him well.
In the period immediately following the foundation of the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States(O.E.C.S.) in 1981, Clarvis Joseph became one of the original leaders of its administration, with Dr.Vaughn Lewis and Swinburne Lestrade. Their immediate task was to establish the organization and make its mission a reality. Many encomia will be written or expressed about the activities of the deceased. I wish to focus on one area, i.e. his role as the first director of the O.E.C.S. Management Training Unit.
The Unit was responsible for determining and assessing the training and management needs of the public services in the member countries of the organization. As such it worked closely and collaboratively with the civil service and other public service entities in all member states, developing and delivering training modules tailored to the individual needs of the countries. Clarvis’ leadership,knowledge and familiarity with, and wide contacts in the member countries were indispensable ingredients in introducing the Unit to the critical groups and authorities it served, and ‘anchoring’ the nascent organization among its constituents. Working closely with his dedicated staff of Sharon Knight, the late Jack Kelsick and Mona Henry, Ermine Spence, and this writer, he laid the foundation and helped develop the template for the operation of the Unit. In collaboration with officials in the member countries and international consultants they produced “A Draft Training and Staff Development Policy for O.E.C.S. Member States,” which was laid in Grenada’s Parliament in 1985.
I extend my profound condolences to his dear wife Pat, his sons Kevin and Damon, their families, theextended Joseph clan, and his close friends and colleagues, especially Dorbrene “Fats” O’Marde.
May he rest in peace.

Requiem For Clarvis Joseph on Behalf of the United Progressive Party

March 3, 2021
by Kevin Joseph
Tribute by: Dr. W. Baldwin Spencer
  • Retired Political Leader – United Progressive Party
  • Prime Minister of Antigua & Barbuda, 2004-14
I knew Clarvis Joseph for decades in his various capacities: Teacher, Businessman, Sports Administrator and Culture Enthusiast.

Each of these endeavors formed a part of his commitment to nation-building and to impacting the lives of Antiguans and Barbudans, individually and collectively, in a positive way. In particular, he always found, or made, the time and energy to be an integral part of the struggles that spanned 1967 through 1976. And out of the positive developments of this period, he went on to serve in various capacities at the national level.

Among these he was Director and Head of the Chamber of Commerce; Chairman of the Port Authority and the St. John’s Terminal Operating Company; and Chairman of the Board of the Antigua Public Utilities Authority.

Having been born in the City of St. John’s during the period of colonialism, Clarvis held strong views on the socio-economic development of his country; and, at all times, he advocated for local and private-sector enterprises, believing in the importance of “ownership.”

For a short period, Clarvis taught me at the Greenbay Government School. In later years, he was instrumental in encouraging me to become more involved in trade unionism, and he was extremely supportive of my involvement in political life and the socio-economic transformation of his beloved country.

But he was not simply part of an audience. He was actively engaged in pushing the United Progressive Party to the front in the run-up to the 1999 elections and to victory in the 2004 polls. And, yet, he never hesitated to let his views be known – even if they were opposed to, or at variance with, those of officialdom, including me or my administration.

His contributions to national life saw his involvement in Sports and Culture, as well. Clarvis was a sociable person and shrewd man, and he recognized both of these as avenues to put his people first – both nationals and Caribbean brothers and sisters – and promote us to, and on, the world stage.

In cricket administration, at home and in the region, his contributions are well documented and respected. He played a pivotal role in the relocation of the West Indies Cricket headquarters here, and this turned out to be a major accomplishment and positive development for Antigua & Barbuda and, indeed, the Eastern Caribbean.

Clarvis’ involvement with the Steelband Movement over the years is equally well known: from sponsorship and exposure to advocacy and advice. The Harmonites Steel Orchestra, one of the leading bands in Antigua and, undoubtedly, in the Caribbean, can attest to Clarvis’ pioneering and development work in this art form. And he not only worked for steelband, he enjoyed and gloried in it!

In Clarvis Joseph, Antigua & Barbuda has lost a national who proved his worth and played his part – in words and actions. He not only “talked the talk, but he walked the walk,” however long the journey was.

On behalf of the United Progressive Party, its Executive, and Membership, I am pleased and proud to declare: “Well done, Clarvis, thou good and faithful servant. Find peace and rest with and among the ancestors.”

A man committed to Regional Integration in the Caribbean

March 2, 2021
by Kevin Joseph

Tribute by: Holly J. Peters
  • 1977 President Antigua Jaycees
  • Former Executive Director – Antigua & Barbuda Chamber of Commerce and Industry Ltd.
In Antigua, the seat of the Government of the Leeward Islands, where King Sugar and Queen Cotton reigned and substance abuse was smoking Lucky Strike Cigarettes and drinking Speakeasy, one beautiful day 29th November 1942, a son was born to Hercules and Iris Joseph.   They named him ‘James Hesketh Clarvis’ and called him Clarvis.  He was involved in the regular activities of the Antigua Grammar school under the watchful eyes of Jack Foote, Father Brown, Leonard Shorey, Alfred W. Blackett, Selvyn Walter, and Lloydston Jacobs. The little force-ripe boy grew to a handsome young man of medium stature with a boastful parrot-toed walk.
Ever since his early days, Clarvis displayed leadership qualities among his friends.  He had a desire to become an educator inasmuch as he believed that knowledge was the key to success in any endeavor.  His teaching career took him to the Pilgrim High School; the Greenbay Government School and the Antigua Girls’ High School where he taught History.  A former student had this to say ‘he was my favourite History Teacher’.  He taught Management of Business in the First Year University Programme delivered at the Antigua State College.
His family including eight siblings (one brother and seven sisters) migrated to the U.S.A., but the precocious Clarvis decided to remain in the Caribbean and contribute to its growth and development.  He is a graduate of the University of the West Indies Mona Campus.  After graduation, he lived in Guyana with his wife whom he met at University. 
Martin Luther King Jr. said “The true Measure of a man is not how he behaves in moments of comfort and convenience but how he stands at times of controversy and challenges”.
Friends from Antigua met up again in 1972 when we attended the West Indies Jaycees National Convention, Clarvis a delegate of Guyana - the land of wood and water and we from Antigua - where land and sea make beauty.  He had become a vociferous young man which was evident when he made his clearly studied contributions to the debates.  It was a pleasure to be in his company and his free time was spent with us the delegates from his home town.
There is something very unique about belonging to Junior Chamber International, the world’s greatest organisation for young people between the ages of 18 – 40.  The Jaycees organisation provides opportunities for young men and women to develop personal and leadership skills through service to others.  Through active participation, one can achieve their highest potential in setting their goals. Clarvis is a fine example of this training. He was made a JCI Senator which gave him the highest award of lifetime membership.
During his active membership in the Antigua Jaycees, in the mid 1970’s there was a glut in Agriculture.  Clarvis introduced an idea to assist the farmers to get rid of their excess fruits and vegetables. He met with the farmers and created an avenue for sale of their produce left over from Saturday and general exports to other countries.  Thus the Jaycees Sunday Market project was created where we the Jaycees would become the vendors on behalf of the farmers.  This earned him the respect of the farmers.
He knew that he wanted to do his part in making Antigua become a developed Nation of first class citizens.  There was nothing shy about Clarvis. He assimilated himself.  The Clarvis I knew had a heart of gold that was always in the right place. He knew how to win friends and influence people.  He was a friend to the friendless. He provided shelter for the homeless.  He understood leadership and most times led from the front and many times when he would be moving along and upon glancing back, those encouraging the march would not be there.  Yet he would press on.  He led from behind too when he would be the encourager for you to push forward to become the best.  Nelson Mandela once said “A leader… is like a shepherd.  He stays behind the flock, letting the most nimble go out ahead, whereupon the others follow, not realizing that all along they are being directed from behind.”  In leading, he had to contend with sometimes making tough and unpopular decisions but in his wisdom, those decisions were for the good of the majority.  He was fearless and took responsibility for his actions as any leader should.
In wanting Antigua to develop to its true potential Clarvis led the Antigua and Barbuda Chamber of Commerce and Industry during the years 1995 – 2007.  As President, he met and consulted with many local, regional and international governments and non-governmental representatives and organisations.  The opinions of the Chamber of Commerce are valued by most.  The President, Officers and Members of the Board are committed to service and for which they receive no board fees.  Perhaps because it had at its head an undaunted leader like Clarvis, more and more demands were being made of the organization by its members, civil society and the public at large.  It therefore became necessary to relocate the Secretariat from Redcliffe Street to more spacious facilities on North & Popeshead Streets. This move called for leasehold improvements.  With the assistance of a supportive Board of Directors, Past Presidents and Members of the Chamber, in Phase I of the upgrade, open space was transformed into two conference rooms fully equipped with air-conditioning, tables and chairs to seat a combined total of 45 persons and with state of the art audio visual equipment, including multi-media projector.  As the respected trade support institution, the Chamber had to prepare its members and citizens to respond to the economic challenges of globalization and trade liberalization.  One way to accomplish this was to expand the training courses on offer at that time.  The Chamber launched its own twice yearly Executive Leadership and Strategic Management Development Workshops in order to provide management with the necessary insights, skills and practical tools required to effectively prepare and cope.  Space in the Chamber was allocated for Committee Meetings, as well as general meetings to organize strategy sessions, where members could meet and exchange ideas on how to cope with changes in the business environment.  
Other initiatives included the Chamber partnering with the UWI Cave Hill School of Business for the use of its facilities to conduct Cave Hill’s face to face Executive Masters in Business Management and its Executive Diploma in Management programmes.
During his tenure, one of the regular activities of the Chamber of Commerce was its monthly luncheons.  Clarvis would use the Chamber’s platform to educate the members and guests on the burning issues and topics of the day.  Where necessary, Guest Speakers would be brought to Antigua to give the region’s point of view.  Such topical issues and speakers included: Implications of the CSME by The Rt. Hon. Owen Arthur; Globalization and Trade Liberalization by H.E. Sir Ronald Sanders; The Pros and Cons of the Caribbean Court of Justice by Sen. Hon. Arnold J. Nicholson, Attorney General and Minister of Justice of Jamaica and Bernice Lake Q.C.; Liberalization of the Telecommunication Industry – representative from ECTEL; and presentations from Prime Ministers of Antigua and Barbuda – Hon. Lester Bryant Bird and Hon. Winston Baldwin Spencer. 
Clarvis was a well-known clear thinking and respected Community Activist who worked in the interest of the people.  As President of the Chamber of Commerce he advocated and defended the interest of the private sector.  As Vice President of the West Indies Cricket Board he worked to advance, protect and build the players and region as a whole.  These positions of leadership especially when one is knowledgeable and assertive such as Clarvis, would sometimes put him in conflict with people in authority at home and in the region.  He often got himself in good trouble.  Leadership calls for boldness.  Many times I would watch the audacious Clarvis in action and speaking his truth while working for the good of the region, country and citizenry as a whole.  Don’t ask me how he did it, but Clarvis undoubtedly knew how to listen to the Holy Spirit and act on its leading. How else was he able to look after the needs of the workers through sometimes difficult union negotiations and at the same time mediate and satisfy the business owners as well as the coffers of the Treasury?  He also displayed love of duty and ease of interaction inasmuch as he was familiar with many of the region’s policy and decision makers.  His position as President of the Chamber involved making appearances before Cabinet.  In addition he would on occasion be a part of a delegation representing the Caribbean Association of Industry and Commerce to Regional bodies such as OECS and Caricom and to give the opinions and the effect of policy on the region’s Private Sector.
Clarvis, a supporter and participant of cultural activities, knew the Mas Builders and Steelband Players and they knew him.  He knew Calypso Kings Obstinate, Short Shirt and Swallow, and they knew him.  From his youth, Clarvis was known to Ernest Williams, Edmund Hawkins Lake and Novelle Richards.  In his positions of leadership, he was known to V.C. Bird, Father of the Nation.  He knew George H. Walter and Walter knew him.  He knew Lester Bryant Bird and Lester knew him. He knew Baldwin Spencer and Spencer knew him.  He knew Donald Halstead and Halstead knew him.
Clarvis knew Michael Manley, P.J. Patterson, Maurice Bishop, Ralph Gonsavles, Forbes Burnham, Walter Rodney, Patrick Manning, John Compton, Vaughan Lewis, Allan Louisy, Eugenia Charles, Rosie Douglas, K. Dwight Venner, Errol Barrow, Owen Arthur, Shridath Ramphal, Ronald Sanders, Dennis Byron, Edwin Carrington, AlisterMcIntyre, William Demas, Richard Bernal and they knew him.  He knew Steve Camacho, Patrick (Pat) Rousseau, and Ricky Skerritt and they knew him.
They are many other skilled men and women, who like Clarvis played meaningful roles in the development and transformation of the island states in becoming competitive as a region in this world of globalization.
Clarvis lived through many transitions in the region. British Colonies obtaining Statehood in Association to full Independence.  The West Indies Federation to Caricom and smaller grouping of the OECS and too, the establishment of the Caribbean Court of Justice.
Clarvis was a well-rounded decent, humble and caring individual.  A man of his word and could be depended on.  A hardworking man who did not shirk his responsibilities.  A lover of humanity.  A man who held dear to his heart his family, immediate and extended especially the children.  A visionary who encouraged men and women from all walks of life to be the best at whatever they did, recognizing each job is necessary to form part of the whole.  A man who always would encourage and say “don’t give me an excuse give me a reason”.
Clarvis lived his life in accordance with his beliefs as demonstrated in the JCI Creed:  -  Expressing faith in the sanctity of freedom; - Proclaiming belief in the basic nobility of human life; - Protecting the right of the individual to live in dignity; - Providing for each individual the opportunity to develop his or her maximum potential within his/her own society.
A sagacious man who believed in his country and the region.  A man who believed, promoted and participated in the Arts and Culture, Education and Training, Leadership Development, Economic Development, Trade in Goods and Services.  A life well lived, whose presence would light up a room or cause a party to begin depending on the event.  It is said that Clarvis was ‘larger than life’. 
On 26th June 2014, James Clarvis Hesketh Joseph was awarded Knight Commander of the Most Distinguished Order of the Nation – KCN.
A life well lived whose journey has ended and leaving behind an indelible mark for others to emulate. 
On behalf of my family and on my own behalf, I extend sincerest condolences to his dear wife Dr. Pat Marlene Joseph, his sons: Kevin, wife Jacqui and grandson Darius; Damon, wife Bridget, grandchildren Kimana and Jahleel; his sisters, nieces, nephews and cousins.
May the soul of James Clarvis Hezketh Rest in Peace and Rise in Glory.  Amen.

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