Former Candidate of the United Progressive Party for the St. John’s City South, Michael Burton dies.Burton had been ill for some time and receiving medical treatment in the United States.
Burton’s family permitted the doctors to release him from life support yesterday a media released stated.
The former candidate was a businessman, veteran and contested the 2018 General Elections for the United Progressive Party.
The Party’s Leadership, Executive and Membership were thrown into mourning at the loss of a brother whom they described as “always willing;” “the ultimate team player;” and a man who “never said ‘No.’”
“It was always our hope that he would come back to us and be a part of the change he longed for and worked toward,” says Political Leader Harold Lovell on behalf of his colleagues. “He made a decision and gave a commitment to this Party and he honoured it.”
“Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to his entire family, but especially to his wife and children,” Lovell adds. “We feel and share their loss.”
The former Deputy Political Leader, Willmoth Daniel, was also shaken by the news, saying, “This hit me hard.” And former Prime Minister Baldwin Spencer and his family shared their grief at the passing of Burton, whom they considered a friend.
The aspiring politician, who was fondly tagged“Burton for Certain,” was a well-known businessman in the Ovals/Ottos community and, before that, served the United States Army in the Middle East.
A committed “loyal son of Joseph,” Burton also served his alma mater, St. Joseph’s Academy, as a PTA president, and was a supporter of the Mary E. Piggott Primary School; the St. Vincent de Paul Society of the Catholic Church; and the Police Force of Antigua & Barbuda.
He attended South College and was a graduate of Alabama State University, where he earnied a degree in Business Administration.
A statement was released by the party announcing his passing and extending sincere condolences to his family.
“Your loss is our loss. May his soul repose in peace,” the press release expressed.
Meanwhile Member for St John’s City South, Minister Steadroy Benjamin recalled his early association with Michael Burton.
He said that “Michael was a member of ‘Cutie’s Ovals OJ’, one of three basketball teams that I had established. He also worked with me in my constituency, and I was very fond of him”.
The Minister said that he chooses to remember Michael Burton, “not as a rival for political office, but as a friend and supporter”, adding that “we had fruitful times together”.
On behalf of the people of St John’s City South and on his own behalf, Minister Benjamin said “Our sincerest sympathy goes out to Michael’s family and friends. Our hearts and our prayers are with them at this tragic time. May Michael rest in peace”.
