Outside of St. John’s Cathedral during Sir Gerald’s Watt Tribute Service (screenshot of state media)
The official funeral for Sir Gerald Watt KCN, KC took place today at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine. Attendees included dignitaries, family members, and friends—mourners from various backgrounds—who gathered to honor the esteemed statesman.
Government officials in attendance at tribute service for Sir Gerald (screenshot)
The ceremony was presided over by the Right Reverend Bishop Ernest Fleming, who graciously welcomed everyone present and outlined the day’s events.
Following this, a heartfelt tribute was delivered by Rudolph Davis, who beautifully performed “The Holy City.”
Sir Gerald Watt’s sister Hyancinth Watt was the next to pay tribute, singing a powerful rendition of “You Deserve the Glory”.
“I think we need to not give glory to the man, but to give glory to the God who empowered him to accomplish what he accomplished,” said Ms. Watt.
Hyacinth Watt, sister of Sir Gerald sings a song in tribute (screenshot of state media)
Tributes were shared by representatives from the Rotary Club of Antigua, where Sir Gerald previously held the position of president, as well as from his colleagues at the law firm Watt, Dorsett, Hewlett Law, and the Antigua and Barbuda Bar Association.
Everyone praised Sir Gerald as a remarkable and compassionate leader who had the ability to inspire those around him.
Despite being opinionated, assertive, and possessing a no-nonsense demeanor, colleagues and peers unanimously regarded Sir Gerald as an extraordinary professional.
Casket of Sir Gerald Watt KCN, KC (screenshot of state media)
Sir Gerald’s son, Garvin Watt gave a moving eulogy, recalling fond memories of a man who balanced his public responsibilities with a deep commitment to his family.
“He loved his family – both his immediate, extended – and we had a great time. Nothing gave him more joy than spending time with us all,” Watt reminisced. “I saw his passion for work, and how he built a legacy in Antigua and Barbuda.”
Garvin Watt, son of Sir Gerald gives the eulogy for his late father (screenshot of State Media)
Garvin also reflected on the moving moments he held dear with his father during his last days.
“I got a chance to come back home and spend some time with him, and I could see the love in him; the joy. And I learned so much more about him as a man.”
Through his words, Garvin highlighted the core values that defined Sir Gerald’s life—values that continue to inspire those who knew him.
After the singing of hymns and several scripture readings by government officials, Reverend Bishop Ernest Fleming delivered a sermon rich in meaningful themes.
Prime Minister Gaston Browne gives a scripture reading at Sir Gerald’s tribute service (screenshot of state media)
Once the blessing concluded, the Reverend announced the recessional hymn, “Blessed Assurance,” which accompanied attendees as they departed.
The entire tribute ceremony embodied a sense of reverence, respect, and commemoration, celebrating the life of this remarkable man – and nation builder – to the fullest.
Governor General Sir Rodney Williams gives a scripture at tribute service for Sir Gerald (screenshot of state media)
Sir Gerald Owen Anderson Watt was a respected statesman and contributor to the nation of Antigua and Barbuda.
An established attorney by trade, he served as the representative for St. John’s Rural East in parliament from 1971 to 1976 and held the position of chairman of the Antigua & Barbuda Electoral Commission at one point.
During his tenure as Minister of National Security, Labour, and Legal Affairs, Watt also acted as the Attorney General from 1971 to 1976.
Most recently he held the role of Speaker of the House of Representatives from June 25, 2014, until November 18, 2024.
He passed away on the 13th of December, 2025 after a full life of public service to the nation of Antigua and Barbuda.
Condolences to his family friends and the nation
Condolences to Antigua and Barbuda. We didn’t just lose a lawyer or politician—we lost a pillar of national history.
Gone but never forgotten. Thank you, Sir Gerald Watt, for your service, your strength, and your contribution to democracy.
Which political party was in government during 1971 to 1976?
Disregard my previous question I found the answer:
The political party in government in Antigua and Barbuda from 1971 to 1976 was the Progressive Labour Movement (PLM).
Leader: George Walter served as Premier during this period.
Election: The PLM won the February 11, 1971, general election, taking 13 of 17 seats and ending the initial, long-standing rule of the Antigua Labour Party (ALP).
Context: This was the first change of government in the nation’s history, and the PLM government lasted until the 1976 elections, when the ALP returned to power.
Sir Gerald Watt’s passing marks the end of an era. His life’s work helped shape the legal and civic foundations of this nation, and his influence will long outlive him. Antigua and Barbuda is better because he served.
As a legal mind and statesman, Sir Gerald set a high standard. Young lawyers should study his career and legacy closely.