TRIBUTES HAVE STARTED TO come in for Barbadian cinematographer Peter Roy Byer who passed away today at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH).
The Barbados Government Information Service, where Byer worked from 1973 to 2011 wrote the following.
“It is with great sadness that the Barbados Government Information Service (BGIS) notes the passing of former cinematographer, Peter Roy Byer.
“Mr Byer will be remembered as a standard bearer for many young professionals who have since joined the field of cinematography,” the release said in part.
Byer was also described as “an ardent lover of the calypso art form”, expressed in his management of the Kingdom of the Super Gladiators calypso tent at Waterford, St Michael.
“Over the 38 years he worked with at the BGIS, he became synonymous with cinematography at the department. For him, videography was more than just a job; it was a passion which he pursued, insisting on excellence. Following his retirement, he maintained ties with the BGIS, and on the occasion of the department’s 55th anniversary, donated a trophy for the Best Film Production.
“The loss of this incredible talent will resonate for some time. The Barbados Government Information Service extends sincere condolences to his grieving family and friends. May he rest in peace.”
Cynthia Forde, the Barbados Labour Party’s Shadow Minister of Youth Affairs, Sports and Culture and Small Business also sent a tribute.
“Peter Roy Byer was a cultural treasure. Whether as a photographer or tent manager he dedicated his professional life to documenting and promoting local culture,” she said.
“As a photographer, cameraman and later videographer with the Government Information Service he was instrumental in capturing and preserving some of the most memorable moments in our history. As manager of the Super Gladiators Calypso Tent, Roy was dedicated to showcasing up and coming calypsonians and developing their talents.”
Byer, 69, reportedly passed away just after midday at the QEH, where he was a patient after suffering a recent stroke.
Several readers on The Nation Barbados’ facebook page also shared their thoughts on Byer.
Badd Hombre: Rise in Glory, Roy… Good man gone… I’ve had the privilege of hearing this man tell stories of his adventures. He was also a walking encyclopaedia and historian. Rest in peace my friend.
Tamara Alleyne: Condolences. We’ll miss you so much.
Wayne Pilgrim-Cadogan: Oh my God! My only childhood buddy. May he rest in peace. I am in shock at this very sad news.
Eileene Jordan: May he rest in peace. What a great man. It was a privilege to have known him. (PR/SAT)
