Former Cabinet Minister Samantha Marshall has penned a moving tribute to her father, Hugh Charlesworth Marshall, in honour of his 88th birthday. The touching message reflects on his remarkable journey from humble beginnings in Ebenezer Village to his influential role in shaping Antigua and Barbuda’s economic and political landscape.
Marshall, who served as Minister of Social Transformation and Gender Affairs, shares personal memories and highlights her father’s contributions to national development, including his tenure as Parliamentary Secretary and his pioneering efforts in industrial and financial reforms.
The tribute, published in full below, celebrates not only his public service but also his enduring commitment to family and community.
Tribute to Hugh Charlesworth Marshall on His 88th Birthday
Today, we gather to celebrate and pay tribute to a remarkable man, my father, Hugh Charlesworth Marshall, as he reaches the incredible milestone of 88 years. Throughout his life, Dad has not only been a witness to the dynamic changes in our world but has also played a vital role in shaping the future of Antigua & Barbuda.
Born on May 24, 1937, to Ms. Ann Rebecca Marshall, Hugh grew up in the village of Ebenezer, where he learned the values of hard work and determination from a young age. Raised by a single mother, he faced challenges that would forge his resilient spirit. With only a formal education up to the age of 15, he began to contribute to his family by helping his mother make coal and delivering milk on foot, experiences that instilled in him a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for the value of perseverance.
At 17, Dad embarked on his professional journey as an Agricultural Ranger with the Peasant Development Corporation. His adventurous spirit led him to immigrate to London in 1960, where he worked in the railways and the British Postal Service. It was in this bustling city that he and Lucille Henry married and started to build their loving family. His entrepreneurial spirit shone through as he and Lucille opened a chain of grocery stores, serving the West Indian community with dedication and pride.
In 1971, fulfilling a promise made to the late Sir Lester Bird, Dad returned to Antigua, where he became a key figure in the Antigua Labour Party. His commitment to the country’s development was evident as he advocated for significant changes, including the abolition of personal income tax and the establishment of the National Insurance Company. Despite facing challenges as a candidate, he was appointed a Senator and later served as the Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Economic Development, Tourism, and Energy, where his leadership helped shape the economic landscape of our nation.
Dad’s tenure as Minister saw the establishment of the Coolidge Industrial Park, generating thousands of jobs and turning Antigua into a regional exporter of goods. His vision and dedication led to technological advancements, including the upgrade of the ABS TV network and the introduction of affordable color televisions. He championed the creation of the Eastern Caribbean Securities Exchange, leaving a lasting impact on our financial landscape.
Beyond politics, Dad’s personal life reflects the same resilience and strength. Following the end of his first marriage, he found love again with Naomi Farquhar in 1986, and together they have created a beautiful family. Dad’s has a total of seven children, 13 grandchildren, and one great-grandchild, without a doubt his legacy continues to grow.
As we celebrate Hugh Charlesworth Marshall today, we honor not only his achievements but also his unwavering spirit, kindness, and dedication to family and community.
Happy 88th birthday, Dad! Your journey is an inspiration to all your children, and we are grateful for the love and wisdom you share with us every day. Here’s to more years of happiness and continued cherished memories!❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️