Cayman’s first governor Athel Long dies
(CNS Local Life): Athel Charles Ethelwulf Long, Cayman’s first governor, has passed away seven months after turning 100 years old. He served as the islands’ last administrator from 1968-1971, after which he was sworn in as governor when the title was changed, holding that post until 1972.
In a statement offering his condolences to Long’s family and friends, as well as noting his “distinguished service” to both the UK and the Cayman Islands, Acting Governor Franz Manderson announced the flags of both countries will be flown at half-mast on all government buildings for the rest of today (Thursday).
Manderson recounted that Long had been a “distinguished former military officer, who spent three years as a prisoner of war during World War II”, becoming a diplomat after hostilities ended.
“With his passing the Cayman Islands has lost a friend and advocate of many decades,” he said. “Mr Long’s abiding love for these islands and their people led him to return to the Cayman Islands five years after his tenure ended. Here he has remained ever since, taking an active role in the community, in particular in the Veterans Association.
“During these years he also served as an invaluable resource for his successors in the position of governor.”
While the date of Long’s funeral has not yet been announced, Manderson said, “To commemorate the life and achievements of Mr Long, the UK and Cayman flags will fly at half-mast again from two days before his funeral.”
In the same statement, Manderson passed on a message from Governor Martyn Roper, who is overseas. “I was very sad to hear about the passing of former Governor Athelstan Long,” Roper said. “I was fortunate to meet Mr Long twice, most recently at his 100th birthday party. As the first governor of the Cayman Islands Mr Long’s passing is a historic moment in the territory’s history. He made a valued contribution to these islands and the UK through his service. I would like to express my condolences to Governor Long’s family. He will be greatly missed.”
Premier Alden McLaughlin also issued a statement on Long’s death, noting his lengthy service to the Cayman Islands. “It grieves me to learn of the passing of the first governor of the Cayman Islands,” McLaughlin said. After his tenure as governor ended, Long served as chairman of International Management Group, chairman of the Public Service Commission and deputy chairman of the Public Service Pension Board.
“Mr Long was a dear friend to the people of the Cayman Islands and served these islands well. He will certainly be missed. My condolences go out to his family and friends,” the premier said.
Category: Local News
A wonderful wonderful man.