The Nation Says Goodbye to Sir Gerald Watt

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.