Brian Uzzell (Photo courtesy of Cayman Compass)
(CNS Local Life): Brian Uzzell, longtime owner and publisher of the Caymanian Compass newspaper, died this morning (Friday, 30 November) in his Florida home at the age of 82 after a long illness. For 40 years Uzzell was a major figure in the media business in Cayman and saw his Cayman Free Press through to its 47th anniversary before selling the daily, a stable of periodicals and a printing operation to David and Vicki Legge in 2013.
Originally from England, he spent a few years in the Bahamas before settling in Cayman in 1972. He found work on the Caymanian Weekly which eventually merged with the Cayman Compass, to form the Caymanian Compass in 1974, with Uzzell at the reins from then until the business was sold 39 years later.
In 2009 during the celebration of Queen Elizabeth II’s birthday, he was awarded the Certificate and Badge of Honour for his contributions to the media industry in the Cayman Islands.
He suffered a heart attack the following year while playing hockey in Camana Bay, leading to renewed talks with the Legges to buy the media company.
A memorial service in Cayman for Uzzell is being planned, with the date to be announced.
Saddened to hear today of Brian’s passing. Reading all the lovely articles about him is heartwarming. He truly was one of a kind.
Having worked for him in Nassau in 1971-’72 and with the internet availability, i googled Brian a couple of years ago. Looking to possibly touch base with him,. We corresponded a few times and my last message from him was about this time last year. He included pictures of his dogs.
Somehow I had a premonition and googled him again today before I emailed him. Please give his family my condolences.
A wonderful man, he gave me some very good advice when I first arrived on island, I still think about that advice today. Rest in peace Brian.