Jamaica is poorer for the passing of stalwart educator and advocate Eric Downie.

As the Ministry of Education, Youth and Culture bids him farewell, we reflect on his sterling contribution to nation building and give God thanks that he had allowed him the capacity to give service of distinction to his country.

Mr. Downie belonged to an exceptional cohort of hardworking and committed educators who foster excellence in the education system even at great personal sacrifice.

A Graduate of the Mico College, Mr. Downie has served at various levels of the system.

We remember him as an outstanding lecturer of History at the Mico College where he later served as vice principal for 13 years before he joined the Jamaica Teachers Association as the Secretary General.

Mr. Downie was instrumental in the development of the preliminary programme at the Mico College because he believed firmly in giving students a second chance at academics. Such was his support of the programme and the students that he was dubbed the 'Godfather of Prelim.'

His selfless service was characterised by humility and passion.

As an advocate, he served as president of the Jamaica Teachers Association defending the interests of his colleagues, but more focused on promoting their professional development.

It was his concern for this area of the teaching profession that led to him giving impeccable service on several education related boards and commissions including the Teachers' Services Commission, National Council on Education, Mico College Board of Directors and the Jamaica Association of Teacher Educators.

His love for God and love for humanity also led him to serve as moderator for the Lluidas Vale Baptist Church, Lay Preacher and Senior Deacon at the Boulevard Baptist where he was loved and respected as an astute and humble leader.

Certainly, his death is a poignant loss to the education sector.

We honour him for being an excellent role model; for devotion and professional integrity, for commitment to hard work. He was fair, just and unscrupulous in his exuberance for honesty and service to his country.

The Ministry of Education Youth and Culture extends sincere condolence to his wife Cordella; his sons Omar and Varick; their wives Ruth and Suzette and his grandchildren Abigail and Jhana.