Bermuda Mourns Passing Of Senator Robinson
[Updated] Following the passing of Government Senator Leslie Robinson, the Premier expressed his ‘profound sadness’ and said it is heartbreaking to mourn her loss.
Premier David Burt said, “This is an unimaginable tragedy which has shocked so many of us to the very core. Bermuda has lost an eminently qualified professional woman who had chosen public service in addition to a busy career in the private sector. Leslie answered the call to serve without hesitation, and this exemplified her selfless nature and commitment to this community.
“It is heartbreaking to now mourn her loss, and I express sincere condolences to her family at this truly difficult time.”
Update 11.11am: A One Bermuda Alliance spokesperson said, “The One Bermuda Alliance is saddened by the unexpected passing of Government Senator Leslie Robinson.”
Opposition Leader Jarion Richardson said, “Before becoming involved in politics, I worked alongside Senator Robinson at the Bermuda Monetary Authority. She was clear, audacious, and bold. She led her team with a professionalism that made her incredibly admirable. She often asked me deep, perceptive questions.
“I was encouraged when Senator Robinson joined the Senate. Although we would have differing perspectives, her keen insight and intellectual rigor would enhance the work of the Senate for the betterment of all Bermuda.
“My deepest sympathies and condolences go out to the friends and family of Leslie Robinson, a truly wonderful person.”
Deputy Leader and former Opposition Senate Leader Ben Smith said, “When I was the Opposition Senate leader, I had the opportunity to observe Senator Robinson. Although we were on opposite sides of the isle aisle she always carried herself with class. Sincere condolences to her family on this shocking news.”
Opposition Senate Leader Robin Tucker said, “Despite being on opposite sides of the floor, Ms Robinson and I shared a camaraderie outside of politics. It was a privilege to have known and worked with her in the Senate. Although we did not always agree, once business was done for the day we often chatted about everything from politics to fashion. She will be a tremendous miss to all who were blessed to know her.”
Sen Douglas De Couto said, “Senator Robinson was quick with a smile, always friendly with all the Senators, and we would often share news about our families. She was dedicated to Bermuda and dedicated to her family, who are in our prayers.”
Senator Dwayne Robinson said, “Senator Robinson was humble, kind, and respectful inside and outside of the Chamber. My ‘Honorable Cousin’ as we used to joke, will be missed. I respected her commitment to her beliefs and willingness to defend them. I am shocked and saddened by her passing. My condolences to her loved ones and family during this difficult time. Rest well, Senator Leslie Robinson.”
The spokesperson said, “The One Bermuda Alliance extends its deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of the late Senator Leslie Robinson and to the Progressive Labour Party.”
Update 12.17pm: Minister Owen Darrell said, “It is with a heavy heart that I share the sorrow felt across our community at the passing of my dear colleague and friend, Senator Leslie Robinson. Leslie’s unwavering commitment to Bermuda and her kindness left a profound and lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to work alongside her.
“Senator Leslie embraced public service with unmatched dedication, bringing the same integrity and passion that defined her private sector career. She gave selflessly to our community, and her legacy of leadership will continue to inspire all of us who follow in her footsteps. Her contributions to Bermuda’s financial and insurance sectors were significant, leaving an indelible mark on these industries.
“Moreover, her dedication to education positively shaped countless careers, ensuring that her influence will endure for generations to come. Senator Leslie’s legacy of professionalism, generosity, and kindness will never be forgotten.
“My deepest condolences go out to Senator Leslie’s family , her Bethel Church family, the entire AME Bermuda Conference family and loved ones during this difficult time. May her legacy of hope, integrity and love continue to inspire each of us to walk in faith and strive for a better Bermuda for all people. She will be dearly missed, and her spirit of service and compassion will remain with us always.”
Update 4.56pm: A Bermuda Captive Network spokesperson said, “The Bermuda Captive Network is deeply saddened to learn the sudden passing of Leslie Robinson, a beloved member of our community and a true champion for the Bermuda captive industry. Leslie was a tireless advocate, a former Bermuda Captive Conference Chair, and a proud ambassador for our jurisdiction.
“Her influence and dedication extended well beyond her role, and her unexpected passing leaves a deep and profound sense of loss that is felt across the industry, by her colleagues, and all those fortunate enough to know her.”
Grainne Richmond, Executive Vice President – Head of Captives at Aon and President of the Bermuda Captive Network said, “Leslie’s unwavering commitment to Bermuda’s captive industry and her passionate advocacy set a standard of excellence and integrity that will be sorely missed. Her contributions were instrumental in shaping our organization and advancing Bermuda’s position as a leading captive insurance jurisdiction. Her dedication, professionalism, and warmth were immeasurable and felt by all who worked with her in Bermuda and overseas.”
The spokesperson said, “Bermuda’s captive industry has been shaken by this tremendous loss. Leslie’s absence will be felt in a deep and visceral way throughout Bermuda, alongside the Bermuda Captive Network’s membership and beyond. She was more than a colleague – she was an ally, a friend and an inspiring leader. Our thoughts are with her family, her colleagues at WTW, her church community, and everyone across the industry who had the privilege of working alongside her.”
Update 5.02pm: Senate President Joan Dillas-Wright said, “It is with great shock and sadness that I and my fellow Senators have learned of the passing of Senator Leslie Robinson.
“Senator Robinson was well respected and admired by all of her colleagues as a highly accomplished professional woman and a caring member of the community who had committed to public service in the Senate.
“Following her appointment to the Senate in November 2022, she quickly impressed us all with her preparation and presentation in debate and on the matters she carried responsibility for as the Junior Minister for Economy and Labour and Public Works. We will miss her.
“On behalf of my colleagues in the Senate, I want to express our heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of Senator Robinson during this difficult time.”
Update 7.36pm: A spokesperson said, “WeSpeak is heartbroken to learn the news of the sudden passing of Leslie Robinson, a dedicated senator, beloved community leader, and cherished member of our WeSpeak family.”
Carolyn Myers, Partner at EY and Chair for WeSpeak Bermuda commented: “Leslie was an unwavering ambassador of WeSpeak and was one of the first women to put her hand up to train as a WeSpeak coach, eager to serve to help women find and project their voices. Despite her incredibly busy schedule of work and parliamentary commitments, she always made time for WeSpeak, and her commitment to empowering others was truly inspiring.
A spokesperson added, “In her broader public life, Leslie served as a senator, embodying a steadfast commitment to the Bermudian community. Her work focused on advancing social equity and economic opportunity, tirelessly championing causes that improved the lives of families, youth, and those who needed a voice. Leslie’s service to her country was rooted in integrity, a keen intellect, and an unwavering commitment to fairness.”
Myers added: “Anyone who met Leslie – whether through WeSpeak, her public service, her work in the insurance industry, or her church, gained not just a mentor and coach but an advocate and friend. Her spirit, generosity, and passion will be deeply missed by her WeSpeak family and this loss is felt deeply within our hearts. Our thoughts go out to her family, her colleagues at WTW, her church community, and everyone whose lives she touched.”
A spokesperson added, “Leslie coached at several boot camps and teen boot camps over the years – and was set to join as a coach at this week’s boot camp, a role she cherished and approached with her characteristic dedication and warmth. In light of this tragic loss, WeSpeak has made the difficult decision to pause this week’s boot camp. The event will now take place on December 10, giving community time to honor Leslie’s memory and come together to support one another during this period.”
