Popular businessman Robert ‘Ducksie’ Russell has died at the age of 76 and condolences are pouring islandwide, including from Prime Minister Andrew Holness

A close family member confirmed that Russell died at Hospiten Hospital at approximately 5:45 pm on Wednesday, December 11, 2024.

He was the owner of the Pier One open-air restaurant, bar, and entertainment centre a family-owned establishment in Montego Bay that has been in operation since 1986. The venue is widely regarded as a cultural and entertainment mainstay in western Jamaica.

In 1993, Russell co-founded Reggae Sumfest, now one of the premier music festivals in the Caribbean. The festival has gained international acclaim for showcasing top-tier Jamaican and international reggae and dancehall talent.

In 2017, he was invested into the Order of Distinction in the rank of Commander (CD) for his impact on Jamaica’s culture and economy​.

“Don’t look left or right until you get there. And then set another target and keep moving ahead and moving upward so you can contribute to Jamaica and to employment, and to the economy,” he said in an interview with Jamaica Information Service (JIS) after receding his OD.

News of Russell’s passing has resulted in the expression of sympathy island-wide, with members of the various government ministries and industries sharing condolence posts of Russell, lauding his influence in Jamaican cultural and entertainment spaces.

“Robert’s vision and dedication to Jamaica’s music and heritage were exemplified through his founding of Reggae Sumfest and his stewardship of Pier One, both of which became iconic pillars of our culture,” the Prime Minister posted on X.

“His impact on the lives of many and his invaluable contributions to promoting Brand Jamaica on the global stage will forever be remembered. My prayers are with all who mourn this profound loss.”

“My deep condolences to the family of Robert “Ducksie” Russell who sadly transitioned earlier today. Robert was a trailblazer in the entertainment and tourism industries,” wrote Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture, Olivia Grange. “Duckie’s walked with Kings, but never lost the common touch with everyday Jamaicans.”

“R.I.P. Robert Russell, #Jamaican entrepreneur. Calabar High and St. George’s College alumnus,” posted chairman of SuperPlus Food Stores, Jamaica’s Southern Regional Health Authority and Institute of Workplace Education & Development Wayne Chen. “

“He was a dear friend and a source of wise counsel. His passion for Jamaica and his unwavering commitment to nation-building were an inspiration to us all,” Minister of Tourism Edmund Bartlett posted.

Details regarding funeral arrangements have not yet been announced and Pier One could not be reached for comments.