19/06/2026
A Tribute to Our Beloved Colleague Mr. Leroy Richardson (""Bro Lee" “Whitty")
On Saturday, 6 June 2026, the Environmental Health Unit within the Department of Health Protection, Ministry of Health, Government of Anguilla, lost a remarkable public servant, mentor, colleague, and friend, Mr. Leroy Richardson, affectionately known as “Bro Lee or Whitty" to those closest to him. His passing marks the end of an era in public health and environmental protection in Anguilla. However, the legacy he leaves behind. One of dedication, service, innovation, and unwavering commitment to the wellbeing of others - will continue to inspire colleagues, public health professionals, and future generations for years to come.
Mr. Richardson dedicated much of his life to protecting the health and wellbeing of the people of Anguilla. From 1975 to 2016, he faithfully served the Government of Anguilla in various capacities, including Aedes Inspector, Squad Leader, Assistant Public Health Inspector, Environmental Health Officer, Senior Environmental Health Officer, and Acting Principal Environmental Health Officer.
Throughout his distinguished career, Leroy demonstrated dedication, professionalism, and commitment to public service. His work extended far beyond inspections and enforcement. He was an educator, innovator, mentor, and advocate for healthier communities and a cleaner environment.
One of his significant contributions was his role in the management and operation of the Corito Landfill Site. He was instrumental in advancing the Glass Recycling Programme, which successfully facilitated the export of a shipment of recycled glass to Trinidad. This initiative contributed to waste reduction efforts and helped extend the lifespan of the landfill. He also championed community environmental initiatives, including the memorable slogan, "Don't Litter Anguilla with Glitter." Working alongside community groups such as Project HANNDS, he supported the removal of bulky waste and derelict vehicles, helping to eliminate pest and vector breeding sites throughout the island.
Leroy's passion for public health began with his first appointment as an Aedes Inspector in 1975. During those early years, he traversed virtually every district and neighbourhood in Anguilla, inspecting homes and premises in pursuit of a healthier environment. His dedication to mosquito control and disease prevention was unmatched. Alongside fellow public health pioneers, including Mr. Oliver Hodge, he developed an intimate understanding of Anguilla's environment. During the mosquito eradication programme, when international consultants proposed complete eradication, Leroy and his colleagues explained that this would be impossible due to the island's numerous rock holes, which provide natural breeding habitats for mosquitoes. Their local knowledge contributed to scientific studies and journals documenting these unique ecosystems.
Never one to stand still, Leroy was always eager to share innovative ideas and practical approaches to public health education. In 1999, alongside Squad Leader Mr. Vincent Carty, he helped launch the now well-known "Veto the Mosquito" campaign. What began as a mosquito awareness initiative evolved into one of Anguilla's most successful public health education programmes, expanding its focus to include the prevention and control of other public health pests and vectors such as rats, cockroaches, flies, ticks, and fleas, along with the diseases they can transmit.
Through a variety of community engagement activities, including preschool jingle competitions, poster and theme contests, Inter-House Spelling Bee competitions, Best Kept Cemetery competitions, walkathons, and community breakfasts, the programme educated thousands of residents on vector control, environmental sanitation, and disease prevention. These outreach efforts fostered greater community participation and awareness while promoting healthier and safer environments throughout Anguilla. The programme's success was made possible through the support of numerous businesses and sponsors, including its long-standing Platinum Sponsor, Caribbean Commercial Bank.
Leroy firmly believed in teamwork and often reminded staff that, "There is no 'I' in team." This philosophy guided his interactions with colleagues and shaped his approach to public service. Whether supporting the Food Handler Education and Certification Programme, conducting health and safety inspections, mentoring junior officers, or encouraging staff during difficult times, he consistently demonstrated a commitment to excellence, collaboration, and professional development.
His passion for public health education extended beyond the workplace. Leroy used his experiences and creativity to write songs that conveyed public health messages and served as a radio talk show host on Kool FM 103.3, reaching audiences across the island with information, education, and encouragement. He understood that effective public health communication required connecting with people where they were and speaking in ways they could understand and embrace.
Mr. Leroy Richardson leaves behind a legacy built on service, innovation, and compassion. His contributions have helped shape the Environmental Health Unit, strengthen public health programmes, improve environmental management, and educate countless individuals throughout Anguilla.
There are some people who bring a light so great to the world that even after they are gone, their light remains. Leroy was one of those people. His wisdom, humour, dedication, and unwavering commitment to protecting the health and wellbeing of others will never be forgotten.
On behalf of the Department of Health Protection and all those who had the privilege of working alongside him, learning from him, and benefiting from his service, we extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, former colleagues, and all whose lives he touched.
May he rest in eternal peace, and may his legacy continue to inspire us to serve with the same passion, commitment, and love for our community that he demonstrated throughout his life.
