KINGSTON, Jamaica — The People’s National Party (PNP) has expressed profound sadness at the passing of Headley “Dellmar” Samuels, who served as the party’s official photographer for more than 30 years.

Samuels passed away Saturday following a period of illness.

Noting that Samuels began his craft with the Jamaica Progressive League in New York, continuing his work upon his return to Jamaica in 1974 and went on to become a senior photographer at The Gleaner, the PNP said he was widely regarded as the Caribbean’s premier cricket and beauty pageant photographer for over 50 years.

“His lens travelled with the West Indies cricket team to every cricketing nation, capturing the team throughout 175 test matches in its most triumphant era. He was also a familiar and respected presence at several Miss World contests,” the party said.

In addition the party said through his decades behind the camera, Samuels chronicled the People’s National Party’s history with skill, dedication and quiet professionalism, leaving behind an invaluable historic catalogue and visual record of the PNP’s journey in post independence Jamaica.

“The People’s National Party extends its deepest condolences to his wife, Carol, and his children, Carey, Karyn and Kornell, along with his wider family and loved ones during this difficult time,” said the party.

The party also conveyed heartfelt condolences to his many friends and colleagues in the media fraternity, who knew him as a consummate professional and a gentleman of his craft.

“Mr Samuels will be remembered fondly for his enduring contribution to Jamaican journalism, sport and culture. He will be deeply missed,” the PNP concluded.