It saddened my family and me to learn of the recent passing of Sen. Earle B. Ottley who must be counted as the "man of the century" for the U.S.Virgin Islands. Very few have gone down to the trenches to lend a hand to the common man as he did throughout his political career.
I was privileged to have benefited from his mentorship throughout my political career in the Virgin Islands. From the formation of the Unity Party which was the forerunner of the Democratic Party, he led the valiant fight with other well known politicians who have passed on, such as Valdemar Hill, Oswald "Skinny" Harris, Weymoth Rhymer, Joseph Gomez and a host of other pioneers.
I came to appreciate Sen. Earle B. Ottley as one who constantly kept his mind on raising the living standards of his people. Regardless of the origin of a person, providing he was a resident of the Virgin Islands, he had the sympathetic ear of the senator. He teamed with the late Gov. Ralph M. Paiewonsky to enact legislation to create an economic development climate which attracted such industries as Hess Oil and the former Harvey Aluminum Plant. He led the fight for the elected governor legislation along with the right of the legislature to set its own session days and salaries as well as apportionment of that body.
Housing development was his grand concern. Wherever there was a piece of idle government real estate he would urge that that parcel be used for low cost housing. He inspired the building of homes in Nadir, Tutu, Bordeaux as well as on St. Croix.
Above all, he was a humanitarian, and one who will never be forgotten.
Sen. Earle B. Ottley will be missed by many who knew him. He was our giant.
Condolences to his wife Alma, her children and his brother Basil Ottley who allowed us to share in his contributions to the Virgin Islands a better place for all.
Eric and Betty Dawson
