KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Judiciary of Jamaica is mourning the passing of retired Resident Magistrate and Parish Court Judge Owen Lloyd Parkin, whose career spanned approximately six decades of dedicated service to Jamaica’s justice system.

Chief Justice Bryan Sykes paid tribute to Parkin’s extraordinary commitment to the administration of justice and public service.

“The passing of Mr Owen Lloyd Parkin marks the end of an extraordinary chapter in the history of Jamaica’s justice system. His career was defined not simply by its remarkable length, but by an enduring commitment to the courts and to public service. To have devoted six decades to the justice system, and to have returned to serve after retirement, is a testament to an exceptional sense of duty, loyalty and dedication,” Sykes said.

He added, “Mr Parkin’s contribution extended across several generations of the Jamaican Judiciary. His service, spanning court administration, the legal service and the bench, reflects a life dedicated to the effective administration of justice. His legacy is therefore not measured only in the years he served, but in the institution he helped to build and strengthen. We acknowledge his contribution with profound gratitude and respect.”

Parkin entered public service on November 22, 1952, as a temporary clerk. Over the course of his career, he served in several capacities, including assistant clerk, deputy clerk, clerk of courts and crown counsel, before being appointed resident magistrate on July 1, 1981.

He retired from judicial service on July 12, 1991. His commitment to the justice system, however, continued beyond retirement. In recognition of his contribution to the development of the judiciary, Parkin was awarded the Order of Distinction in the rank of Commander (CD) in 2025.

The Judiciary of Jamaica extended its deepest condolences to Parkin’s family, friends, former colleagues and all those who mourn his passing.