KINGSTON, Jamaica – The Wolmer’s Trust says it is shocked and deeply saddened by the untimely passing of Wolmerian Francois St Juste, broadcaster extraordinaire.

St Juste died Monday morning after battling an undisclosed illness.

In a news release, Wolmer’s Trust Chairman Milton Samuda hailed St Juste for his “stellar career” in broadcasting.

“Francois’ talent, passion and engaging personality endeared him to two generations of radio listeners in Jamaica and beyond. His velvet voice, infectious laughter and eclectic taste in music made him the perfect morning host,” the Wolmer’s Trust chairman said.

“He brought deep thought and innovation to his craft, exemplified in the birth of the brand, FAME FM, and the collaborative genius of the devastatingly entertaining Full House Friday,” he continued. “In him, intellect met entertainment, with stunning effect, and he thrilled his audience with daily servings of news, sport, culture and trivia, presented with armchair ease and in a manner which epitomized both natural and honed talent, masterfully crafted into a professionalism which anchored a stellar career.”

Samuda said St Juste, who attended Wolmer’s Boys’ School from 1973 to 1979, lent his distinctive voice to several gatherings of the Wolmer’s family and its friends.

“Armed with a mischievous wit, Francois added his own distinctive brand of class and humour to any event for which he was the Master of Ceremonies – and what a master he was!” the Wolmer’s Trust chairman said. “We mourn the passing of one who was an exemplar of a Wolmerian – willing to help and serve others, dedicated to excellence and of unimpeachable integrity.”

In the meantime, Christopher Samuda, President of the Jamaica Olympic Association and former classmate of St Juste at Wolmer’s, expressed sadness at the passing of the broadcasting icon.

“While traveling, I received news of the sudden passing of Francois St Juste. I have lost a classmate, a collegiate friend and a Wolmerian brother who hailed from the same household – Patterson House – and who teamed with me and others in representing that admirable house and our distinguished school, Wolmer’s Trust High School for Boys, in football,” Christopher Samuda said.

“Francois then, and in his inimitable and distinguished career, demonstrated skill, determination and a deep appreciation for the enduring value of collaboration and teamwork. He has answered the call, as all of us will in this mortal world. Peace Francois.”