KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) is mourning the passing of former Member of Parliament for St Mary Western, Hyacinth Knight.

Knight died at the Andrews Memorial Hospital in St Andrew on Wednesday after battling an illness. She was 86 years old.

Jamaica Labour Party Chairman and Member of Parliament for St Mary Western, Robert Montague, is expressing the party’s deepest condolences to her family.

Montague said the Jamaica Labour Party is grateful to Knight for her immense contribution. The Jamaica Labour Party Chairman is also thanking Knight’s family for affording her the time to serve her parish of St Mary and her country.

“Knight was a mother, mentor and good friend. She was a teacher, JAMAL administrator, farmer, developer, councillor, mayor and Member of Parliament. She served the people of St Mary for years and with great distinction. She gave birth to four children but mothered many and was aunt to many more. Her contribution will and can never be forgotten. She was a quiet and determined person, with a magical yet soft smile that lit up any room she entered. Mrs Knight was an outstanding woman,” he said.

Montague said Knight’s service to the Jamaica Labour Party and Jamaica is worthy of the highest commendation.

“Hyacinth Knight gave her heart and soul to uplifting the Jamaica Labour Party and her beloved country, Jamaica. Her dedication and life’s work improved the lives of thousands. Her words of advice and active support positively changed the lives of many. May her soul be greeted by the angels that sing. May Jesus, the savior, meet her. May she find rest in the Heavenly Father’s arms! Rest well. Hyacinth Mae Knight, rest well,” he added.