KINGSTON, Jamaica — Prime Minister Andrew Holness has sent condolences to the family, friends and loved ones of businessman R Danny Williams following news of his passing on Saturday.

In a tweet, PM Holness said as a government minister, businessman and philanthropist, Williams made remarkable contributions across various fields and expressed that his death is deeply saddening.

“I send heartfelt condolences to his family, loved ones, friends and colleagues. May his life and legacy continue to inspire us as we recall with gratitude his service to public life and within the private sector which has positively impacted the Jamaican landscape,” Holness’ tweet read. “The passing of the Honourable R Danny Williams, a foremost Jamaican businessman, former government minister and philanthropist who made remarkable contributions across various fields, has deeply saddened us. May he rest in peace.”

Former leader of the Opposition People’s National Party, Dr Peter Phillips also expressed sadness at Williams’s death. In a statement, Phillips said Williams was “a truly great Jamaican and a pioneering spirit who contributed tremendously to the development of his country and its institutions.”

PJ Patterson, former prime minister, also paid tribute to Williams on Saturday saying Jamaica is poorer for his passing.

“He ranks within the highest echelons of committed Leaders who have contributed beyond measure to the growth and esteem of our island,” Patterson said. “He was a towering giant in the fields of business, education, institution building and deserving charitable causes. I have lost a precious friend and an invaluable political colleague.”

READ: R Danny Williams has died

Williams, who founded Life of Jamaica, was ailing for some time.

In the meantime, president of the Jamaica Chamber of Commerce, Michael McMorris hailed Williams as a “quintesential trailblazer in the post independence era of Jamaica.”

He added, “The fact that (Williams” was able to succesfully mobilze his ideas as an entreprenuer and eventual business mogul, and then also serve with distinction in the public sector as a Minister of Governement underscores the rare qualities and drive possesed by this great Jamaican icon.”