The Government and people of Saint Lucia are mourning the death of world renowned chef and philanthropist, Edward ‘Chef Harry’ Joseph, who passed away at the age of 78.

Chef Harry touched many lives through his unflinching generosity, and left an indelible mark on friends, employees, and various organizations who benefitted from his kindness.

Former employees, many of whom were first introduced to the hotel sector through employment at his establishment, speak of him with respect, affection and admiration.

During his lifetime, Chef Harry made an outstanding contribution to the Saint Lucia Hotel and Tourism Association (SLHTA), the tourism sector and the wider society. Owner of one of Saint Lucia’s most talked about and frequented small hotels, the Green Parrot, Chef Harry was renowned for his excellent culinary skills. Many remember him as the quintessential performer and entertainer, ever willing to please his admiring guests.

“The tourism industry mourns the loss of Chef, who was an icon in the sector, and in many ways helped to shape and transform what Saint Lucia tourism is all about,” Lorne Theophilus, Minister of Tourism, Heritage and Creative Industries said.

The interests of Chef Harry went beyond tourism. He played a vital role in creating awareness about the island’s national bird, the Amazona versicolor, particularly at a time when it faced extinction.

Chef Harry is the first recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award for Entrepreneurial and Private Excellence from the Saint Lucia Industrial and Small Business Association (SLISBA), and was officially inducted as an Honorary Member of the Saint Lucia Hotel and Tourism Association in July 2011.

In his honor, the Government of Saint Lucia named the road leading to his establishment “Chef Harry Drive.”

He was also the recipient of an MBE, awarded by Her Majesty the Queen. 

The Government and people of Saint Lucia extend condolences to the family and friends of the late Edward ‘Chef Harry’ Joseph.

“The sorrow and anguish of Chef Harry’s family is felt and shared throughout the length and breadth of Saint Lucia,” Prime minister Dr. Kenny Anthony said. “We have lost an exemplary son who gave freely for the development of others.”

May he rest in eternal peace.