It is with a heavy heart that we share news of the passing of our beloved Richie Samuels, a recipient in 2013 of The Chairman’s Award – one of the Magnificent Seven at the Jamaica Observer Table Talk Food Awards.

Samuels, who had spent almost four decades in the hospitality industry, was at the time of his death employed as a maitre d’ at the Terra Nova All-Suite Hotel.

Samuels was the recipient of many accolades, not the least of which was the Jamaica Hotel & Tourist Association Award in 1994 and Service Recognition from the Optimist Club in 1993.

Samuels’s extensive training, under the excellent guidance of the likes of Mike Bryan, Mario Machado, Barbara Pottinger and James Samuels, led to his rise through the ranks at the Terra Nova All-Suite Hotel over the almost four decades.

He began his career at the boutique hotel in 1983 as a busboy and quickly moved up to the position of waiter and then head waiter in two years. His rise continued up the professional ladder as he was promoted to banqueting captain and then to maître d’ of the Terra Nova Hotel’s Terrace Restaurant, a position he held until his passing on Wednesday, September 28 at his home in Darliston, Westmoreland.

According to Samuels, his greatest sense of fulfilment would come from a satisfied customer, a happy outcome of his enduring mantra to strive for excellence at all times despite the inevitable daily challenges. Samuels served guests from all walks of life during his illustrious career, from prime ministers of Jamaica to members of the Royal Family to the occasional family celebrating a milestone. All were treated with the same deference.

Richard Samuels leaves his lifelong companion and wife Maudlin Samuels and five children.