Dear Editor,

I was extremely moved while reading the tribute to Ripton MacPherson by Leaford McLeary on January 26, as I too am a huge fan of the gentleman. It was an honour to be associated with him for almost 14 years as a founding member and director of MoBay Hope Medical Centre, a non-profit, fee for service facility that has made a positive impact in private health care for visitors to the island and residents of western Jamaica.

What most impressed me about “Mister Mac” was his quiet, dignified approach to matters at hand. Never arrogant or pompous (in spite of his obvious years of experience and learned expertise), he gave generously of his time and his energy. We are eternally grateful.

Leaford McLeary’s letter elicited the following response from a close friend “…I just read the letter on Ripton MacPherson. Honestly, it’s one of the best letters I have ever read in the paper. Very touching and shows how small gestures can make a huge difference in a person’s life…”

My comment to Mr McLeary is that I sincerely hope that Ripton was well aware of how you felt about him, long before he left us. We should never wait to let special people know about the impression they have made on us and their positive influence on our lives.

Judith Farmer

judithannfarmer@gmail.com