The Jamaican literary community is in mourning following the passing of Tommy Ricketts, a founding member and long-time president of the Poetry Society of Jamaica.

His passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from writers, performers, and admirers across the island.

Ricketts, widely regarded as a central figure in the development of contemporary Jamaican poetry, was a member of the dub poetry collective Poets in Unity, whose members went on to establish the Poetry Society of Jamaica in 1989.

As its youngest member at the time, he would go on to dedicate nearly four decades to nurturing young writers and celebrating the work of those who came before.

Throughout his tenure Ricketts was known for cultivating a space in which writers could share their work, challenge themselves creatively, and grow in community.

He was a strong advocate for artistic discipline, consistently encouraging poets to push their boundaries and bring their best work to both the page and the stage.

One of his most enduring contributions was his stewardship of the Society’s monthly fellowship gatherings, held on the last Tuesday of each month at the amphitheatre of Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts since May of 1989. Under his leadership, the fellowship became a cultural mainstay, providing a platform for generations of Jamaican writers and performers.

Beyond poetry, Ricketts was a multidisciplinary artist, whose work spanned advertising, acting, music, voice performance, film-making, directing, producing, and visual art. His creative influence extended even to the society’s visual identity, as he designed its signature promotional flyers. He is being remembered by peers as someone who embraced life fully and inspired others to do the same.

News of his passing has been met with an overwhelming response from the community, with many sharing tributes and personal memories that speak to his impact both as an artist and as a mentor.

In honour of his legacy, the Poetry Society of Jamaica has announced the first in a series of commemorative events. The next monthly fellowship, scheduled for Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at 7:00 pm at Edna Manley College amphitheatre, will be dedicated to Ricketts. The event will feature poetry, musical tributes, and reflections celebrating his life and work.

Additionally a memorial is being planned for the April 28 fellowship at the same venue, also beginning at 7:00 pm.

As tributes continue to pour in, many are remembering Ricketts not only for his artistic achievements, but for his role in building a space where Jamaican voices could be heard, challenged, and celebrated — a legacy that is expected to endure for years to come.