Constituents hail late Councillor Wood as a good man
ZION HILL, Portland — The passing of Councillor Derron Wood (Jamaica Labour Party, Fairy Hill Division) has robbed the constituency of a good man who helped people, residents of Zion Hill have told the Jamaica Observer.
Wood died last week while undergoing treatment at a hospital in the Corporate Area. He had reportedly tested positive for COVID-19.
“It is sad that he passed away. He is our original councillor who looks out for us and we miss him very much because he looks out for the lower class of people and try to help us and do the best for us,” said one resident who gave his name only as Jason.
“The creator knows what He is doing…It is a sad passing. He used to come door to door, house to house, and is someone you can go to and ask any favour; and as long as he can do it, he is going to do it,” added Jason.
Another resident said: “He is my good friend and he is very helpful. He loves the people, especially the youths and elderly. Him arrange corner league football for the communities. We had a water problem and him get the black tanks and set up so we can get water up at Sherwood Forrest. It’s sad that he had to die.”
An elderly resident who gave his name only as Eldon said: “Missa Derr was a good man. Him look out for we the older ones, and [him] try hard. Him get the road fix and arrange fi wi get water. I am going to miss him. He was a good youth.”
For Athlee Cleary, the Portland Eastern constituency and Portland, in general, has lost an outstanding politician.
“Derron Wood served the people of the Fairy Hill Division as a councillor for many years and has helped in the development of the Jamaica Labour Party political work for many years,” said Cleary.
“The parish has lost a true son, hard worker and dedicated son who was committed to the people of East Portland, especially the Fairy Hill Division. He was a stalwart. I will miss him and he will be remembered for many, many years. I am truly saddened by his passing. He has contributed to the development of the parish and was not afraid to make bold steps in getting things done is his area in assisting the elderly with wheelchairs, water, road repairs, and opportunities for the youths to be involved in social activities like football and dominoes. He always had a listening ear,” Cleary said.
