FORMER president of the Jamaica Table Tennis Association (JTTA) Godfrey Lothian was pronounced dead at the Spanish Town Hospital yesterday morning after collapsing at home.

He was 65 years old.

It is understood that shortly before 9:00 am Lothian complained to his wife Joyce of not feeling well, and said that he would return to bed to rest. However, moments later his wife was alerted by “sounds” coming from his bedroom and when she investigated she found an unresponsive Lothian on the ground.

He was rushed to the Spanish Town Hospital from their Portmore residence by a neighbour but was pronounced dead shortly after.

Outside of his role as president of the JTTA, Lothian was a director of the Jamaica Cricket Association at the time of his death, and was also president of the Greenwich Town Football Club; for over 30 years he displayed a passion for youth and grassroots programmes within the Greenwich Town community.

Current president of the JTTA Andrew Lue was shocked at Lothian’s sudden passing. He said though they had had their differences, the former president had “done very well” for the sport of table tennis. “I express my sincere sympathy to his wife and family on behalf of the association and members,” said Lue.

Meanwhile, Jamaica’s number one men’s table tennis player Simon Tomlinson said “it’s a sad day and moment for the sport with the sudden passing of Godfrey Lothian because I was caught off guard.

“I send my sincere condolences to his wife and family on behalf of the clubs and playing members and hope they are holding tight during this sad day.”

Lothian, who is survived by wife Joyce “Jennifer” Lothian, five children, other relatives and friends, was employed to the Institute of Sports for over 30 years.

He was also president of the Kingston and St Andrew Cricket Association.