Governor General Sir Rodney Williams on Saturday paid tribute to Sir Aziz Hadeed as one of Antigua and Barbuda’s most distinguished citizens, describing him as a businessman, patriot, philanthropist and close friend whose influence extended far beyond the corporate world.

Delivering the eulogy at the official funeral service at Holy Family Cathedral, Sir Rodney reflected on a decades-long friendship with Sir Aziz, whom he described as “my brother and my friend.”

“We gather today with hearts that are heavy, yet filled with gratitude, as we celebrate the life and legacy of a truly remarkable man,” Sir Rodney said.

He traced Sir Aziz’s journey from Syria to Antigua and Barbuda, where he arrived as a young boy with his family and went on to help build one of the country’s most successful business enterprises. Sir Rodney said the values of hard work, perseverance and loyalty shaped Sir Aziz’s life and career.

The Governor General highlighted Sir Aziz’s contributions to national development, including his service as a senator, minister of state and ambassador to Bahrain, as well as his role as the inaugural chairman of the University of the West Indies Five Islands Campus Council.

Among the achievements singled out was Sir Aziz’s involvement in negotiations that resulted in the forgiveness of approximately EC$500 million in debt owed by Antigua and Barbuda to Italy.

“Few private citizens have had such a direct and measurable impact on the economic fortunes of Antigua and Barbuda,” Sir Rodney said.

He noted that despite his accomplishments, Sir Aziz rarely sought recognition for his contributions and viewed public service as a duty rather than an opportunity for praise.

Sir Rodney also spoke of Sir Aziz’s devotion to family, describing him as a father figure to many of his nieces and nephews and a steadfast supporter of those closest to him.

In recalling their friendship, the Governor General said it was rare for more than a few days to pass without the two speaking by telephone.

“His advice was always practical, his judgment was sound and his humor was refreshing,” he said.

Sir Aziz, who died on May 23 in Chicago, was knighted by Prince William at Windsor Castle in October 2025 for his contributions to business, education, philanthropy and national development.

Sir Rodney said Antigua and Barbuda was bidding farewell to “one of its most distinguished sons,” whose legacy would endure through the institutions he strengthened, the people he mentored and the lives he touched.

The official funeral concluded with tributes from family members, government officials and friends before Sir Aziz was laid to rest at St. John’s Cemetery.