The first Governor of the Central Bank of Barbados Sir Courtney Blackman was today remembered and praised for the breadth of his contribution to Barbados but particularly for the establishment of a Barbados financial institution of which the island is proud.
In words of remembrance at the late Barbadian patriot’s funeral service at the Cathedral Church of St Michael and All Angels in Bridgetown hours ago, current Central Bank Governor Cleviston Haynes described Sir Courtney as “a leader extraordinaire” who not only did a remarkable job of establishing a financial institution that earned Barbados recognition on the world stage of finance, but also developed young people under his direction.
“At his peak he bestrode the world like a colossus, defending Barbados’ interest with every sinew in his body, both as Governor and through the many roles that he occupied after his departure in 1987,” Haynes said.
At the intimate private service attended mainly by family members, Sir Courtney’s sons Keith, Christopher and Martin, in a joint tribute, acknowledged the influence of a father who attached huge value to education and self-improvement and goaded them to achieve according to their ability.
Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley paid her final respects to the late Governor and extended condolences to members of his family during a brief visit to the church just before the service began.
Sir Courtney passed away in the United States in March, at age 88. Among those mourning their loss is his widow Gloria Lady Blackman to whom he was married for 63 years. (GC)
