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Governor John P. de Jongh, Jr. this week extended the sympathies of the people of the Virgin Islands to the family of Leroy A. Gottlieb, Sr. De Jongh said Gottlieb was an “upstanding and honest businessman; an avid supporter of the horse-racing industry and a proponent of small business in the Virgin Islands.”
De Jongh said that many will remember the very first Gottlieb Quick Way Service Center between Veterans Drive and Harwood Highway, which has been expanded and renovated many times since it first opened. “I believe that Mr. Gottlieb’s automobile service station was the first 24-hour gas operation and convenience center on St. Thomas, a modern facility that quickly grew in popularity and prominence. Mr. Gottlieb was always on-site, overseeing operations and dealing with customers. He developed a loyal following and it was not uncommon to hear someone saying, “I’m heading to Gottlieb’s.” Everyone knew exactly where Gottlieb’s was located.”
The governor said that through good customer service, providing a necessary product in a centrally-located place, and fair prices, Leroy Gottlieb developed a business that is still operating successfully after nearly half a century. He was one of our original entrepreneurs, predicting the growth and future needs of St. Thomas and then taking the initiative to provide an essential service.
De Jongh said Gottlieb’s interest in horse power was not limited to the automobile. “He was a horse racing enthusiast who was well-known in racing circles in both the British and U.S. Virgin Islands. Today, a horse race is named after him, the Leroy “Pappy” Gottlieb Sr. Cup, part of the St. Thomas Carnival race card. His support and interest in horse racing is legendary and will be one of his legacies to the Virgin Islands.”
“My wife, Cecile and I extend our heartfelt sympathies to Mr. Gottlieb’s wife Gerda; his children and grandchildren; all members of the extended family circle; and his many friends and admirers. Gottlieb’s Quick Way Service Center will always stand as a memorial to this good man and his many contributions to our community.”
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