Gordon “Butch” Stewart, chairman of the Sandals/ATL Group, which includes the Jamaica Observer, yesterday expressed his “deep shock, sadness and sense of loss” at the death of Captain Horace Burrell whom he regarded as a great friend.

Following is the text of Stewart’s press statement:“Words are inadequate to express the deep shock, sadness and sense of loss I feel with the passing of Captain Horace Burrell, a great Jamaican and a great friend.Jamaicans who witnessed the negotiating skill, talent, business acumen and determination of this giant of a man are unlikely ever to forget his signature achievement in taking the country to the finals of the 1998 World Cup.I found Captain Burrell to be a man with a big heart and a man who believed in the potential of his people and his country. He had enormous commercial instinct which played out on behalf of Jamaican football and his own private business, Captain’s Bakery. And I was struck by his stubborn refusal to give up his dream for Jamaican football, even in the face of strong, if mindless, opposition.I will miss his warmth, camaraderie and his larger-than-life appeal. The entire Sandals/ATL family joins with our nation in mourning the loss of a great son and sporting icon. Our condolences go out to his family and friends and may his soul rest in peace.