It is with deep regret that I advise of the passing earlier today of Mr Ralph Johnson, GCM, Vice President of the Barbados Olympic Association Inc.
“Bruggadung”, as he was affectionately known, was the quintessential man of Sport – an Administrator and a Sportsman. He served on our Board for 34 years, 28 of which were as Vice President. He was one of the primary architects of the lottery for sports in Barbados which has been a game changer for the BOA in terms of our ability to lend support to National Federations. Many of you will be familiar with him in the role of Chair of our Allocations Commission charged with reviewing various projects and programmes and recommending disbursement to your organization of funds generated by the lottery. He was an avid Sportsman, serving at various times as President of the Barbados Yachting Association, the Caribbean Yachting Association, the Barbados Squash Rackets Association and the Caribbean Area Squash Rackets Association. He was an inaugural inductee into the Barbados Squash Association’s Hall of Fame and a keen squash player, golfer, rally driver, boxer, sailor, to name just a few of his sporting endeavours. In 1997, he was awarded a Gold Crown of Merit for his contribution to business and sport.
Ralph was a pioneer in business in Barbados as the founder and Chairman of Harris Paints, which is a household name in Barbados and is now a regional group of companies. Under his leadership, this company has made a valuable contribution to Sport in Barbados.
We are profoundly saddened by his passing and wish his dear widow, Isabell, his children and wider family our deepest sympathy. It will be difficult to replace him, not only because of his contribution to Sport, but also because of his warmth and sense of humour.
May he Rest in Peace.
Sandra Osborne, SCM, Q.C
President