Tributes Paid To Lady Jacqueline Swan
Following the passing of Lady Jacqueline Swan, tributes were paid to her from both sides of the aisle, with Lady Swan remembered as one of Bermuda’s “most respected and influential women.”
Premier Michael Dunkley
Premier Michael Dunkley extended his condolences to Sir John Swan and his entire family, saying that Lady Swan was one of our “most respected and influential women, representing Bermuda with poise, grace and pride.”
Premier Michael Dunkley said, “On behalf of the Government and people of Bermuda, I wish to extend my sincerest condolences to Sir John Swan and his entire family on the passing of Lady Jacqueline Swan.
“Lady Swan was one of our Island’s most respected and influential women, representing Bermuda with poise, grace and pride.
“While she welcomed Royalty, Prime Ministers and Presidents, perhaps Lady Swan’s greatest legacy will be her compassionate and noble service to those important charitable causes that sought to uplift the lives of our community’s most vulnerable.
“She was considered one of our Island’s fiercest philanthropic advocates, and her dedication and commitment enriched the lives of so many. Lady Swan was a woman of quiet strength and dignity, and she has left a lasting impression on our Country and our people.
“I ask that all of Bermuda keep Sir John, Alison, Amanda, Nicholas and the entire Swan family in their thoughts during this very difficult time. Lady Swan will be greatly missed, may she rest in peace,” added Premier Dunkley.
Progressive Labour Party
The Progressive Labour Party also extendrf their condolences to the family of Lady Jacqueline Swan, saying: “As our island’s First Lady for thirteen years, she served alongside her husband with grace, dignity and elegance.
“We pray that her family and loved ones will be supported and encouraged during this period of bereavement.”
Governor George Fergusson
Governor George Fergusson said, “Margaret and I were very sad to learn of the death of Lady Swan. She was impressive by any standards – compassionate, highly intelligent, fun and courageous.
“She was a pillar of the LCCA, with many in the community owing much to her wise advice in the LCCA’s work. She faced her illness bravely and calmly. We send our condolences to Sir John and her wider family.”
Age Concern
The Board of Directors of Age Concern also extended their sympathies to Sir John and the Swan family on the passing of Lady Jacqueline Swan.
“Lady Swan was named the patron of Age Concern Bermuda in the year 2004. She was one of the founding members of Age Concern in 1978, when the organization was solely a voluntary society,” the group said.
“During her tenure as a member of the Board of Directors of Age Concern, which spanned over two decades, she supported the introduction of the Annual Premier’s tea, the geriatric training program at the Bermuda College and many other community initiatives for seniors.
“During her earlier years of service with the organization, in addition to being the wife of the Premier, she was a quiet ambassador for seniors and made both official and non-official visits to the islands rest homes on a frequent basis.
Age Concern Chairperson, Mr. Erwin Adderley stated, “I had the pleasure of knowing Lady Swan. She was a poised and dignified lady of grace. I first met her when I returned to Bermuda as Director of Planning in 1972.
“Although I joined the Age Concern Board nearly a decade after she retired from it, I found a well-run organization with a tremendous legacy of credibility in serving the island’s seniors. It does not surprise me therefore that Lady Swan was instrumental in its beginnings.”
Executive Director of Age Concern Claudette Fleming indicated, “I had heard a lot about Lady Swan but I did not have the privilege of meeting her until I was interviewed by the Board of Age Concern in the year 2000. Then I got to know her really well.
“She and previous Chairperson, Mrs. Joy Leman, introduced me to donors and supporters to help the organization to grow. She had a tremendous amount of wisdom in balancing philanthropy and politics.
“In fact, when the Government changed in 1998, Lady Swan and her fellow Directors were instrumental in setting a new course for Age Concern, ensuring the organization would be available to seniors well past their tenures as Directors. Such wisdom was insightful and visionary. She will be sadly missed.”
