Castries, Saint Lucia (June 2025) — Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre has paid an emotional tribute to his former Cabinet colleague and close friend, Dr. Velon Leo John, following the former minister’s passing at age 83. Describing him as a “humanitarian” and a “firm believer in justice,” Pierre reflected on John’s legacy of service to Saint Lucia and his beloved Laborie constituency.
Speaking to Saint Lucia Daily Post, the Prime Minister expressed condolences to Dr. John’s wife, Paula, and their children, describing the loss as deeply personal.
“First of all, I would express deep personal condolences to Paula and her family—children,” Pierre said. “I spoke to them last week. We had a chat… I’m going to visit them. I promised. It’s not very good. So it’s a very trying time for me.”
Dr. John, who served in the Cabinet of former Prime Minister Dr. Kenny D. Anthony, was a key figure in Saint Lucian politics during the late 1990s and early 2000s. He held ministerial portfolios including Labour Relations, Public Service and Co-operatives, Legal Affairs, and Home Affairs. Prior to that, he served as Leader of the Opposition between February 1996 and May 1997, after being appointed as a senator in 1988.
A trained lawyer and former magistrate, Dr. John pursued legal studies at the University of Ottawa and the University of Miami after completing his undergraduate degree at St. Francis Xavier University. His legal career informed much of his political outlook, particularly his emphasis on justice and equity.
“Velon and I were closer than most people know,” Prime Minister Pierre said. “But you know, he’s done his sojourn on the earth—as he would say—and he has left us to his demise. I’m sure he was satisfied with the life he made.”
Throughout his nine years representing the constituency of Laborie in Parliament, Dr. John was known for his deep concern for community upliftment. Pierre recalled that he consistently used his voice in Parliament to advocate for the basic needs of his constituents.
“He had a deep love for the underprivileged and for the people of Laborie,” the Prime Minister said. “I remember him in Parliament speaking on every budget for lights—electricity and water—for the people of Laborie. I know him doing that all the time.”
Outside of government, Dr. John maintained a strong literary presence. Earlier this year, he launched a memoir titled Ramblings of a Mind and Pulsations of a Heart, a collection of philosophical reflections, political insights, and personal essays. Prime Minister Pierre, who attended the launch, described it as a powerful reminder of John’s intellect and humanity.
“I attended the last book launch. I had the privilege to speak there,” Pierre recalled. “So I’m sure that I will always remember him. I’ll read his book over and over, because the problem is in my mind.”
Dr. John’s impact went beyond policy. His colleagues remember him as a man of principle, whose command of language and moral compass earned him respect across party lines.
“I also remember him being a firm believer in justice and the law, and sort of his conjugation—judgment would be on the law,” Pierre added. “Saint Lucia has lost a good breed. Saint Lucia has lost a humanitarian. Saint Lucia has lost a very sharing individual… in Velon John. May he rest in peace.”
