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June 22, 2008
GOVERNOR SADDENED BY DEATH OF SIDNEY LEE Governor John P. deJongh Jr. said this weekend he was saddened to learn of the passing of former Virgin Islands Senator and life-long philanthropist, Sidney Lee. "In Sidney Lee’s death, the Virgin Islands have lost a truly dedicated public servant and great supporter of many causes in our territory," deJongh said. Many in the Territory have benefited from Senator Lee’s generosity. "Sidney Lee provided funding for scholarships, summer camps and financial aid for students of the Virgin Islands as they sought to broaden their education potential, and for the development educational programs." Sidney Lee’s foundation donated regularly to maintaining the theater named for him at Island Center on St. Croix. "The advancement of the arts, seeing children broaden their horizons and offering his expertise in public service were the hallmarks of this generous man," deJongh said. The governor also recalled Sidney Lee’s public service in the Virgin Islands dating back to the 1940’s when he served as president of the West Indies Investment Company, a founding member of the Virgin Islands Bank and Trust, the predecessor to Chase Manhattan Bank. "Former Senator Lee was involved in and served on the board of many civic organizations. Lee served four terms in the V.I. Legislature and was active in the V.I. Democratic Party serving as the party’s national committeeman and held various positions in government including on the V.I. Port Authority Governing Board and many terms on the V.I. Board of Education. "I also recall his column, "Lee Let’s Loose", published regularly in the St. Croix Avis. "Senator Lee has made numerous contributions to the Virgin Islands and we are today grateful for all he has done to advance the work of charitable organizations in the Virgin Islands. My prayers are for those left to mourn his death and for his eternal rest," deJongh said. |
