Tributes Paid To Ceola Wilson
[Updated] Following the passing of veteran journalist Ceola Wilson, tributes were shared by Opposition Leader Ben Smith, former Premier Ewart F. Brown, and the Progressive Labour Party, all of whom highlighted her lasting impact on Bermuda’s media landscape.
Opposition Leader Ben Smith Statement
“Bermuda has indeed lost a gem with the passing of journalism veteran, Ceola Wilson,” Opposition Leader Ben Smith said.
“Ms Wilson was a force to be reckoned with and was never afraid to ask probing questions. Although at times she made politicians on both sides of the floor uncomfortable, her priority was always to keep the people of Bermuda fully informed.
“She was unequivocally a powerhouse in the media landscape and she has left an indelible mark on the community. On behalf of the One Bermuda Alliance, I would like to extend my deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Ms Wilson.”
Dr. Ewart F. Brown Statement
Dr. Brown said, “I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Ceola Wilson, a journalist whose voice and presence helped shape Bermuda’s media landscape for decades.
“Ceola was unique among Bermudian journalists. She answered to no one but herself. That independence was not merely a professional trait; it was her hallmark. She approached her work with conviction, asked the questions others avoided, and remained steadfast in her commitment to reporting as she believed it should be done.”
“I extend my sincere condolences to her family and friends during this difficult time. May they take comfort in knowing that her work made a lasting impact on Bermuda.”
Progressive Labour Party Statement
A spokesperson said, “The Progressive Labour Party joins the people of Bermuda in mourning the passing of Ceola Wilson, a respected and formidable voice in Bermudian journalism whose work informed and shaped public dialogue for decades. We extend our sincere condolences to her family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time.
“Ms. Wilson earned the respect of the community through her fairness, and unwavering commitment to the truth. She understood the vital role of the media in a democracy and approached her work with preparation, possessing the courage to ask tough questions without malice, hidden agenda or spin. She also played an important role in encouraging and mentoring other Bermudians entering the profession, leaving a lasting mark on Bermuda’s journalistic community.”
PLP Chair Dawn Simmons said, “Ceola Wilson represented the very best of Bermudian journalism. She was unafraid to hold leaders to account, regardless of party or position. At the same time, she believed deeply in fairness and in the responsibility to keep public discussion rooted in truth. Her passing is a loss to Bermudian journalism and to our country as a whole, and we extend our heartfelt condolences to her family and loved ones.”
A spokesperson added, “The Progressive Labour Party honours Ceola Wilson’s life and legacy, and we recognise with gratitude her lasting contribution to Bermuda.”
BBC’s Ian Rawlins Statement
Update | Ian Rawlins, Head of Business Development at the Bermuda Broadcasting Company said, “I met Ceola at 19, during my summer internship at the Bermuda Broadcasting Company. After just one week working alongside her, I knew we’d create quite a stir in the newsroom! As a summer student, I gained invaluable hands-on experience in journalism and production, and Ceola’s guidance was instrumental in shaping my skills.
“She exemplified the art of breaking news, asking tough questions, and crafting compelling stories. Her daily reminder echoed in the newsroom: ’7:00pm comes every day, we need to present a newscast every day.’ Her passion for fresh stories and commitment to meeting deadlines were truly inspiring, and her influence has had a lasting impact on my approach to journalism.”
