The members of the 34th Legislature are saddened by the news of the passing of the Former Governor Charles W. Turnbull, and joins the Virgin Islands community in mourning his loss. The 6th elected Governor of the Virgin Islands, was a gentle giant that served the Virgin Islands in many capacities. He served as teacher, principal, of Charlotte Amalie High School, Commissioner of Education, Member of the Virgin Islands Board of Education, and eventually serving in the highest office in the territory, Governor of the U.S. Virgin Islands. He was a proud Virgin Islander that served the Virgin Islands with distinction, grace and humility.
“It was on the 13th Board of Education where I met his acquaintance when we both served. And over the years our professional relationship transitioned to a friendship,” stated Senate President Donna Frett-Gregory. The Virgin Islands has lost a renowned historian who always made himself available to our community to provide historical context. We are comforted in knowing along his journey he generously shared historical knowledge of his beloved Virgin Islands, as he was often called upon by persons here and in the diaspora. “Former Governor Turnbull was always willing to provide wise counsel, words of wisdom and encouragement to those of us who serve as leaders throughout the Virgin Islands community,” said Frett-Gregory.
To his family, friends and loved ones, there are no words we can offer that will lessen your grief, however it is my fervent hope that you find solace in knowing he made a profound impact on our territory and its people. May God provide you strength in the upcoming days and in your time of grief. The people of the U.S. Virgin Islands has lost a giant of a man.