The Deputy Mayor of New Amsterdam Hyacinth James died on Sunday. She was 83. She took ill some time on Sunday evening during celebrations for her 83rd birth anniversary at her Pope Street, New Amsterdam home.
According to Secretary to the Mayor of New Amsterdam, Camille Reid, Mrs James was immediately rushed to the New Amsterdam Hospital where she died some time after midnight.
Reid stated that Mrs James’s death has plunged the municipality into deep shock and mourning. She said that she had spoken with the Deputy Mayor earlier on Sunday to wish her a happy birthday.
Mrs James was said to be in very high spirits all day on Sunday.
She was described as a very active person and someone who
had the Council’s interests at heart. Reid also stated that James even volunteered to pay municipality officials out of her own pocket a few years ago when the Council was unable to pay workers for November and December. She agreed to pay once the Council had paid her back, Reid said jokingly.
Mrs James joined the New Amsterdam Municipality in September 1994 as a councilor. She became Deputy Mayor of the town in August 2002 and served on a few occasions as Mayor. She leaves to mourn three children.
According to Reid, a book of condolence has been opened to the public