The tight-knit creative and tourism community of Saint Lucia is mourning the unexpected passing of one of its most cherished members, Pontinus Clery, who died on Sunday. Widely remembered by loved ones and colleagues as a vibrant, warm-hearted individual whose presence filled every room he entered, Clery leaves behind a decades-long legacy deeply woven into the island nation’s cultural and tourism sectors.
Clery spent the majority of his professional career at Saint Lucia Distillers, where he rose to the position of Assistant Marketing Manager. Beyond his official job title, he served as a key public representative for the company’s most iconic brands, including Bounty Rum and Chairman’s Reserve. His commitment to Saint Lucia’s national cultural life extended far beyond the workplace, as he played active roles in the island’s biggest signature events: the annual Lucian Carnival, the internationally renowned Saint Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival, and Jounen Kweyol, the island’s celebration of Creole culture.
For Lucian Carnival specifically, Clery was far more than a supporting organizer. He participated in the celebration both as a joyful reveller and as a road marshal, contributing to the event’s smooth operation and festive spirit from multiple angles.
In the days following his death, tributes have poured in from across the island’s leading industry groups, public figures, and cultural organizations. The Saint Lucia Hospitality and Tourism Association (SLHTA), which worked closely with Clery for years, released a public statement expressing profound sadness at his passing. SLHTA noted that Saint Lucia Distillers, a long-standing valued member of the association, has backed countless industry initiatives over the years, and Clery was the central liaison for that partnership.
“Clery played an integral role in the company’s work and was the main point of contact for the Association, with whom we worked closely on these engagements. He was a people person who valued relationships, welcomed new ideas and was always willing to help create opportunities for others,” the association wrote in a public Facebook post.
Saint Lucia Distillers also shared a heartfelt tribute to their late colleague on Instagram, highlighting the intangible magic he brought to the company every day. “In his time as assistant marketing manager, among his numerous other roles, he contributed not only his time and talent but also something far more difficult to put into words – his spirit,” the company wrote.
The official Lucian Carnival Facebook page echoed that sentiment, remembering Clery as “a beloved pillar of our Carnival family.”
Ernest Hilaire, Saint Lucia’s Minister for Tourism and Creative Industries, acknowledged the deep shock rippling through the carnival community, which is mourning two losses over the same weekend: Clery and Jahnn Sifflet of Xuvo Carnival. “Each of these gentlemen, little or big, had a profound impact on the sector,” Hilaire said.
As family, friends, and colleagues continue to offer their condolences to Clery’s loved ones, his legacy of warm collaboration, enthusiastic support for local culture, and dedication lifting up other members of the industry will leave a lasting mark on Saint Lucia’s cultural and tourism sectors.