Fellow Citizens, Residents and Youth:
Our nation has been plunged into mourning having learnt of the passing of our fourth
Governor-General, Sir Samuel Weymouth Tapley Seaton GCMG CVO KC JP LLD. Sir Tapley who for
several decades served his country valiantly, embodied key principles including respect, fairness
and a love for law and justice which served as an inspiration for all. These were principles that he
sought always to impart to us as SKNYPArians as well as the wider community. Like many before
him, he was an avid supporter of young people finding every opportunity to inspire and advance the
development of our nation’s youth, particularly during his tenure in our country’s highest office.
Prior to his service as Governor-General, Sir Tapley contributed diligently to the growth of SKNYPA,
lending support through the provision of legal advice, assistance with legislative drafting and
reviewing items proposed for debate at Sittings of the Youth Parliament. During discussions and
courtesy calls, he vividly recounted his early support to the Association as well as his
commendation for the continuous work of SKNYPA. In the early 2000s, Sir Tapley was named an
Honourary Member of the SKNYPA, thereafter contributing time and time again to our collective
advancement.
Outside of the youth sphere, his dedication as a young Attorney drew him to serve as our nation’s
first and youngest Attorney General from 1980 to 1995. His love for community, service and
volunteerism will forever be cherished as we remember the life he led. Additionally, we note his
commitment to his dream of ensuring that Government House truly existed as “The People’s House.”
This commitment could be noted by the frequent events hosted there under his auspices, the
numerous visits by youth groups while for SKNYPA, his unwavering will to open the doors to
opportunities figuratively and physically. Sir Tapley’s love for youth development could perhaps be
said to be rivalled only by his abiding commitment to preserve the historical gems of our islands.
His support then for groups like the St. Christopher National Trust in addition to his service on
several National Committees, Boards and companies comes as no surprise given his tenacity for
embracing the stories that have shaped our land.
And so, as we bid farewell to one of our illustrious sons of the soil, SKNYPA pays homage to the
resilience, strength and determination of the man that was known simply to many of us as Sir
Tapley. The St. Kitts National Youth Parliament Association wishes to extend our deepest
condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of our former Governor-General. We pray that
during this difficult time strength from our Almighty Father may comfort you as you cherish the
legacy of an astute, powerful yet inspiring individual.
