Sen. Craig W. Barshinger expresses his deepest condolences to the family of Mr. Arnold “Morty” Golden, who passed away Saturday at his home on St. Croix.
“I was very saddened to have learned of Morty’s death,” Barshinger
said. “He was a pillar in this community and a mentor and inspiration to
me. It gave me great pleasure to work alongside this honorable gentleman as we served together as delegates to the 5th Constitutional Convention.”
Barshinger said he first met Mr. Golden in the 1990’s when he explained to him the concept of numbered seating as a step towards better accountability in our electoral system. This led to an attempt at an initiative, which garnered 2,900 signatures on St. Croix, 500 on St. John, and 400 on St. Thomas. Although it did not meet the threshold to be placed on the ballot, his initiative raised consciousness about electoral reform.

Mr. Golden was very committed to his community, Barshinger said. This was evident in his long career of public service as commissioner of public works, senator, St. Croix administrator, commissioner of commerce, candidate for lieutenant governor and delegate to the Fifth Constitutional Convention. Most importantly, Golden was also very dedicated to his wife, Carmen, and their children.
“He truly loved the Virgin Islands and saw our potential for growth,”
Barshinger said. “Those who shared in his life can hold in their hearts
and minds the memory of an honorable and devoted man who led a purposeful life.”