Gary Errol Protain, a man whose life spanned distinguished careers in diplomacy, public relations and music, died peacefully on April 8, 2025, at his home in Aurora, Illinois, following a lengthy battle with illness. He was surrounded by his loving family when he passed, holding to the unshakable faith that defined his character through every chapter of his 85 years of life.
Born mid-December 1940 at St George’s Colony Hospital in the Caribbean nation of Grenada, Protain was the only child of Errol Protain and Gertrude (Blackman) Protain, MBE. From his early school years at Grenada Boys Secondary School (GBSS), it was clear Protain was an exceptional talent: he stood at the top of his class academically while also dominating regional tennis competitions. In 1958, his perfect scores on University of Cambridge external examinations earned him the prestigious title of Island Scholar, opening the door for him to pursue higher education first at Trinity University in Ireland, and later earn professional diplomas in piano performance and composition from Trinity College London.
Upon his return to his home country after completing his studies, Protain stepped into public service, playing a key behind-the-scenes role in preparing for Grenada’s historic independence from British rule in February 1974. His skill and poise quickly elevated him to senior diplomatic posts: he was appointed Deputy Ambassador to both the United Nations and the United States, representing Grenada’s interests on the global stage for years.
After retiring from Grenada’s Foreign Service, Protain relocated to Toronto, Canada, where he pivoted to a new career in media and public relations. He joined the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) as a public relations manager for the network’s top celebrity television programs, before going on to serve as the private public relations manager for legendary Canadian jazz pianist Oscar Peterson.
It was not long before Protain returned to his first love of music, launching a successful solo career as a cruise line pianist performing for audiences across the Caribbean and North America with Carnival Cruise Lines. His tender, expressive playing style earned him enduring nicknames including “the Poet of the Piano” and “the Romantic Pianist” — praise echoed by celebrated American pianist Roger Williams, who publicly hailed Protain as a true master of his craft. Protain recorded a full studio album titled *The Poet of the Piano: A Sentimental Journey*, which remains available for music lovers to enjoy today.
Protain is survived by his devoted wife Diane, two stepdaughters Stephany (married to Ray Mason) and Jennifer (married to Jose Zendejas), seven grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, and a wide network of cousins and lifelong friends spanning the globe.
In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that memorial donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association and the American Stroke Association, organizations that advance research and care for the illnesses Protain battled in his later years.
*This obituary was published by NOW Grenada, which notes that it does not take responsibility for contributor-submitted content. Readers may report alleged inappropriate content via the outlet’s official reporting channel.*