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JIS Mourns Death of Gary Spaulding

By: , June 7, 2016

The Key Point:

The Jamaica Information Service (JIS) joins the media fraternity in mourning the sudden death of veteran journalist Gary Spaulding.
JIS Mourns Death of Gary Spaulding
Photo: Contributed
Late Veteran Journalist, Gary Spaulding.

The Facts

  • Managing Editor, Godfrey Barnes, remembered Mr. Spaulding as a consummate professional, who took pride in his work.
  • JIS Public Relations Manager, Andrea Braham noted that with Mr. Spaulding’s death, Jamaica has lost a true professional. “Gary was a decent human being and a genuine friend. He will be greatly missed,” she added.

The Full Story

The Jamaica Information Service (JIS) joins the media fraternity in mourning the sudden death of veteran journalist Gary Spaulding.

Mr. Spaulding, who was a senior political and foreign affairs writer at The Gleaner, was employed to the JIS from July 21, 2008 to March 31, 2009, where he served as Editor in the Radio Department.

Chief Executive Officer of the JIS, Donna-Marie Rowe expressed sorrow at his passing.

“We grieve with our colleagues in the media fraternity.  When the news came to us in a meeting on Monday (June 6) it was a significant blow… it was staggering.  Our minds then raced towards his sister, Nadia, who works in our Finance Department.

“Gary’s work at the JIS and in journalism was stellar and our hearts go out to the Gleaner family at this time as they grieve the loss of two of their stalwarts,” she said.

Mr. Spaulding’s death comes as the Gleaner newsroom is also grappling with the passing of Glenroy Sinclair, Assignment Coordinator.

Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Ian Boyne, in his tribute, noted that Mr. Spaulding “was a good and genuine soul”.

“He was pleasant, not cantankerous, nor belligerent. He was never one to brag or to detract from his colleagues’ success. While competitive – mainly with himself – he would never give you the impression that he was better than anyone else.

“We will miss him deeply but will always treasure his memory.  His passing, as well as Glenroy Sinclair’s, has left a void in our   profession. May God be with us at this extraordinary time of grief.”

Director of Production, Enthrose Campbell, who was Manager for Radio, when Mr. Spaulding joined the department, said he immediately made an impact.

He became the point man for information on parliamentary procedures and related matters, and pioneered The Economy and You series, which is still a JIS radio feature.  “Gary remained our friend and mentor even after he had moved on to The Gleaner.  We will surely miss him,” Miss Campbell said.

Managing Editor, Godfrey Barnes, remembered Mr. Spaulding as a consummate professional, who took pride in his work.

He was very knowledgeable about political issues and was quick to share tips and advice with younger journalists.

Radio Manager, Lorraine Walker Mendez, recalled that Mr. Spaulding took her under his wings when she interned at RJR, where he worked for several years.

“I remember we were coming back from Parliament and an incident happened and he coached me into writing my first news story. He was genuinely happy for me when the story made it into radio news.  His death is really a big loss for journalism in Jamaica,” Mrs. Walker Mendez said.

JIS Public Relations Manager, Andrea Braham noted that with Mr. Spaulding’s death, Jamaica has lost a true professional.  “Gary was a decent human being and a genuine friend. He will be greatly missed,” she added.

Special Projects Manager, Andrine Davidson, said Mr. Spaulding was a remarkable journalist.  “Those who worked with him knew his passion and drive for excellence. He was certainly one of those persons to look to as a standard bearer in the profession. He will also be remembered for his care and concern for young reporters. The profession has suffered a great loss and I grieve with our colleagues at his passing,” she lamented.

Radio Editor and friend, Athaliah Reynolds Baker, in her tribute, said that Mr. Spaulding was not only a talented journalist but a truly generous human being.

“He had a big heart and sincerely cared about people. As a young journalist, I could always count on Gary’s guidance. I would call him from time to time for counsel and he always found time to steer me in the right direction. Walk good, my friend. You are sorely missed,” she solemnly expressed.

Mr. Spaulding is survived by his sons, Andre and Cavaughn; daughters, Kerry, Kayla, Kelsie and Kendra; brothers, sisters and other relatives.

Last Updated: June 8, 2016

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