Governor de Jongh Expresses Condolences on Passing of Rudy Thompson

Governor John P. de Jongh, Jr. today offered his condolences to the family of Rudy Thompson, a true Virgin Islands pioneer who died recently at the age of 80.

Thompson's feats as a sailor were legendary in the territory. He sailed the Caribbean for half a century, blazing a trail for generations of younger sailors who were touched by his generosity of spirit and love of the seas. In those five decades, Rudy Thompson proudly represented the Virgin Islands in international sailing at the Olympics, Pam Am games and five world championships.

“Rudy represented this territory so well in sailing competitions across the world, and was a great mentor and role model to so many here back home on the islands. His spirit was uplifting, his enthusiasm for life contagious, his joy undiminished. The loss of such a wonderful man will resonate throughout the Virgin Islands.”

Thompson helped found the St. Thomas Yacht Club, served as its Commodore, and inspired so many other sailors he met there. He also played a significant role in the development of St. Thomas through his construction and real estate businesses. But many remember Thompson best as a prolific storyteller whose humor and wit were as fierce as his competitive instincts in a regatta. 

For Thompson, sailing was a way of life and source of continuous joy. Even when racing in international competition, he transcended the sport to find something more profound, and when on the water, he most treasured the camaraderie he shared with friends, and later his son and grandson.

Governor de Jongh wishes the best in these difficult times to Rudy Thompson's wife Sheila, his children Chris and Hillary, and grandchildren Cy and Brittany.

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