Prime Minister Andrew Holness has expressed sadness at the passing of former senator and businessman Herbert Arthur Ziadie, and hailed him for his commitment to democracy and the country’s development.

The man known to many as Turo Ziadie died Thursday morning. He was 87.

“Jamaica has lost a true nation-builder and I join his family, friends and loved ones in mourning his passing,” Holness said in a statement.

Born in St Andrew on November 11, 1934, to Aston and Reima Ziadie, Ziadie served in many sectors, including politics, the private sector, and sports.”

“Turo Ziadie was committed to the democratic process and the development of Jamaica at large,” Holness said, adding that he “was a long-standing member of the Jamaica Labour Party who offered his services generously without hesitation”.

Holness noted that Ziadie served as a member of the Senate from 1983 to 1989.

He was company director at Desnoes & Geddes Ltd and vice-president of marketing.

Ziadie was an avid sportsman with great interest in the development of golf in Jamaica. He represented Jamaica in the sport and served as president of the Jamaica Golf Association, and PWD Gun & Sporting Club.

He also served as chairman of the Urban Development Corporation.

For his distinguished and faithful service to Jamaica, the Government conferred on him the Order of Distinction in the rank of Officer in 2018.

“Although he has a lifetime of achievements, Arthur believed his greatest blessing was his three sons who undoubtedly will continue his legacy of contributing to Jamaica,” the prime minister said. “On behalf of the Government of Jamaica, I extend condolence to the Ziadie family.”