Dear Editor,

Words cannot describe my personal feeling of loss on being informed of the recent death of my mentor and friend. I refer to that great educator and former principal of Bethlehem Moravian Teachers’ College in Malvern, St Elizabeth, Dr Randolph Nathaniel Watson.

Uncle Ronnie, as I affectionately called him, was a dear and beloved member of the college family, a legend I would say. He was a giant of a man in his words and deeds. He dedicated many decades of his life towards the development of Bethlehem Moravian Teachers’ College and education in Jamaica. His stewardship was characterised by love for people, humility, professional integrity, and a sense of decency.

Dr Watson’s gift of empathy and his ability to bring simplicity and clarity to seemingly complex issues without compromising intellectual rigour was one of his key character traits as an educational leader.

During my years as a college student and student leader, he was very accommodating and accessible. At a personal level, he was my friend and mentor. He taught me a lot about life and what it means to be true to ourselves. I can vividly recall when I told him about my diagnosis with mental illness, his remarks were not just supportive and reassuring, they were rare at that time in our history.

His passion for the well-being of all students was unparalleled. His warm personality endeared many “troubled students” to him, who would eventually become success stories. Many ‘Bethlehemites’, including myself, are blessed and proud to be a product of his leadership.

His journey on Earth has ended, but his contribution to education and humanity will continue to flourish through the lives he impacted. May God comfort his family and grant all of us the strength to bear the pain of his loss. I have lost a teacher, a mentor, and a friend, but I am comforted by cherished memories. Rest in peace, Uncle Ronnie, we will all join you one day.

The word is always love.

Andre AO Wellington

Class of 1999

Bethlehem Moravian Teachers’ College

andrewellington344@gmail.com