The passing of Mr. Sidney Carroll Jr. has come as a shock to us all, and his absence is profoundly felt within our party and across the nation. Sidney was a nationalist who loved the Bahamas and our people.
He was passionate about nation-building and dedicated his life to sharing ideas and engaging in initiates that could make us better as a people. Mr. Carroll, a proud descendant of Long Island, carried a vision for a self-sustaining Bahamas with unmatched passion. We met as activists addressing a range of national issues sometimes on the same team, others times in separate organizations, but on the same side of the issue.
Our Executive Committee recently had the honour of reinstating Sidney into the FNM, and he was unanimously welcomed into the Candidates Training session in preparation for the upcoming election.
He had a special place in his heart for Long Island and was proud of how industrious his people were and the immense contributions they had made to the development of our country. His desire was to be counted on the list of nation builders who were born in or descended from Long Island.
His dedication to farming and agriculture was more than just a career—it was his life’s purpose. He dreamed of a Bahamas capable of feeding itself and worked tirelessly toward this goal, driven by an enduring commitment to see his nation thrive. He was candid in his advice me when I served as Minister of Agriculture. His interest in frontline politics was about having a chance to put in place legislation and policies that empower farmers, fishers, and entrepreneurs, especially in our family islands.
In the end, he passed away on the island he so dearly loved, surrounded by his beloved wife and church community.
Mr. Carroll’s strong faith in Jesus Christ gives us the assurance that he is now in a better place, resting in the eternal arms of the Almighty. His faith and devotion were sources of strength that he shared with all around him, and we take comfort in knowing that he is at peace.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. May you find solace in the cherished memories you shared together and in knowing the lasting impact of his life’s work and faith.
On behalf of my wife Berlice and the entire Free National Movement family, I extend condolences to his dear wife Valarie and their daughter and other members of his family. May he rest in peace and rise in glory.
Hon. Michael C. Pintard, MP
Leader of the Free National Movement