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JAM | Dec 12, 2024

PNP mourns the loss of Montego Bay businessman Robert ‘Ducksie’ Russell

/ Our Today

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Josef Bogdanovich, CEO of Downsound Entertainment and Robert Russell (Contributed Photo).

The People’s National Party is mourning the loss of Robert “Ducksie” Russell, a prominent, multifaceted Montego Bay businessman and co-founder of Reggae Sumfest, who passed away on Wednesday, December 11 at the age of 76.

In a joint statement of condolence to the families of Russell, Opposition Shadow Spokespersons on Tourism, and of Culture and Creative Industries, Senator Janica Allen and Dr. Deborah Hickling Gordon described Robert Russell as a key figure in Jamaican culture, known for his significant contributions to music and tourism through Reggae Sumfest, forays into media through HOT 102, and as the patriarch of the popular Pier One Restaurant.

Deborah Hickling Gordon

“Beyond playing a significant role in developing the entertainment industry through his various investments in enterprise, he was a believer in the sector and of the true value of its people. Robert Russell was a man of action. His passing is a major loss to the Jamaican entertainment and business communities, with many remembering his legacy as a leader in the entertainment industry,” said Deborah Hickling Gordon. “Robert ‘Ducksie’ Russell was an outstanding Montego Bay businessman and a giant in the entertainment and tourism industries.

Opposition spokesperson on Tourism, Senator Janice Allen. (Photo: Facebook @janice.allen.3705)

“He helped to solidify Montego Bay on the map with the popular eatery and club, Pier One, that continues to be a must-go for visitors and Jamaicans alike. His family’s foray into the accommodations sector of tourism with the acquisition of Hotel Montego, that has now become Deja Hotel, showed his commitment to our city’s development and confidence in its tourism product,” said Senator Janice Allen, who is also caretaker for the St. James Central Constituency.

The PNP shadow spokespersons extended condolences to his family & to the Sumfest and Pier One families on behalf of the party.

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