The Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association (JHTA) is mourning the loss of Jamaican logistics and protocol consultant Merrick Needham while extending condolences to his wife Camille, children and other family members.
Needham, 89, died on December 29, three weeks after being admitted to the University Hospital of the West Indies.
In a statement, the JHTA said Needham was “a true patriot” who steered Jamaica for decades along the path of “correctness” for state and national events, international conferences and special occasions.
Stated the JHTA: “Many leaders of the island’s diplomatic corps, corporate executives, government representatives and event planning specialists owe their proficiency to Merrick Needham who was well regarded as the ‘go to man’ whenever there was a question or uncertainty about correct form and protocol.”
“Merrick unselfishly shared his knowledge and experience working in England and Jamaica with successive governments ensuring there were no missteps as we welcomed royalty, heads of state and other dignitaries attending conferences and national events.”
Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association
The association added: “His planning and management skills were also legendary, including his penchant for using military 24-hour times – a nod to his long association with the Jamaica Defence Force. His outstanding support of the JDF over several decades earned him the title of Honorary Colonel, Jamaica’s first.
“Merrick unselfishly shared his knowledge and experience working in England and Jamaica with successive governments ensuring there were no missteps as we welcomed royalty, heads of state and other dignitaries attending conferences and national events.”
Said the JHTA: “In many ways, he was one of Jamaica’s most constant tourism ambassadors as he supported the JHTA and other Caribbean tourism entities in mounting major high-level events. Thankfully, Merrick has left a legacy of trained nationals who continue in his footsteps. Walk Good Merrick!”
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