It is with profound sadness and a heavy heart that I join with our community to mourn the passing of a true English Harbour legend, Paget ‘Jacko’ Weste, whose lifeless body was discovered on Monday 22nd September 2025.
To write that our community is reeling would be an understatement. A special, irreplaceable light has gone out in our village.
Jacko was the life of English Harbour. He was more than just a familiar face; he was a character in the very best sense of the word, a thread woven into the vibrant fabric of our daily lives. He will long be remembered for his unforgettable personality, his faithful donkey and the unique attraction that came with it; a sight that brought a smile to all who witnessed it.
What made Jacko so special was his beautiful authenticity. He was real. He did not hide his feelings about anything, yet he bore no malice. His honesty was refreshing, his spirit genuine. He commanded the attention of all who knew him, or of anyone he chose to engage in his own charming way. He was ordinary, yet extraordinarily special.
I will miss him dearly. He never came to Liberta without stopping by my office to see me. His last visit was this past Saturday, when Mambo advised him that I was traveling. True to form, he promised to visit again upon my return; a promise that now leaves a poignant ache and a visit we will sadly never share.
Our community is once again feeling the sharp pain of death as yet another loved one departs. But while we grieve, we also cherish. Rest easy, my friend. I will forever hold dear the memory of all those jokes we shared and your unwavering insistence that I ‘am the best’ This is a simple but profound and heartfelt encouragement that will continue to inspire me to serve our beloved community.
Thank you, Jacko, for the laughter, the honesty and the friendship. English Harbour will not be the same without you.
Rest in Peace, Jacko. You will never be forgotten.
