Minister of Justice Delroy Chuck has expressed sorrow at “the sudden and unfortunate passing” on Wednesday of long-standing custos rotulorum for Hanover Dr David Norman Adolphus Stair.

In a release on Thursday, Chuck noted that Stair was installed as custos on May 7, 2009, succeeding Mavis King.

“A dedicated public servant and medical doctor, Custos Stair served with distinction, leaving an indelible mark on the parish and the nation.

“His unwavering commitment to the judicial system was evident in his tireless work with the courts, where he championed fairness, integrity, and efficiency in the area of mediation,” said Chuck.

He added: “In my many interactions over the years, with Custos Stair, it was evident that he was a firm believer in peaceful conflict resolution. Dr Stair was a strong advocate for mediation, promoting it as a vital tool for fostering harmony within communities.

“As a member of the board of Hanover Mediation Centre, his leadership in this area has no doubt positively impacted many lives, helping to resolve disputes amicably and strengthen social cohesion”.

According to Chuck, Dr Stair’s legacy of service, wisdom, and compassion will be deeply missed.

“His contributions to justice and mediation will continue to inspire those who follow in his footsteps,” said Chuck as he pointed out that he recently hosted Stair at a meeting with past and present custodes.

“On behalf of the Ministry of Justice and custodes across the island, I convey sincere condolence to his wife Angella and family,” Chuck added.

Reports are that Stair was found slumped in the bathroom of his house in Hopewell, Hanover, late Tuesday afternoon.

The police say Stair’s co-workers went to check on him after he failed to report to work and calls to his cellular phone went unanswered.

It is further reported that when his co-workers arrived at the house they found the door open and Stair’s lifeless body in a bathroom.

The police were alerted and a team arrived on the scene to start their investigation. Police sources say it is believed that the custos died from natural causes.

“We are awaiting the results of a post-mortem but it seems there was no foul play even though the door to the house was open,” said one police source shortly after the body was found.