It is with a profound sense of personal loss that I mark the passing of one of my dearest friends, Mr. Henry “Trottie” Woods, the Managing Director of our nation’s national flag carrier, Bahamasair.

I was at Mr. Woods’ bedside at the University of Miami Hospital when he passed away earlier today, attended by his wife, "Teddy" (Gayle), his daughter, Phylicia, other family members and friends, including perhaps his closest friend, Deputy Prime Minister Philip Brave Davis, and Minister Shane Gibson.

Mr. Woods was a towering figure in Bahamian aviation for decades. He was a superb professional who led by example, putting in exceptionally long hours and demonstrating an unswerving commitment to productivity and efficiency. Imbued with a deep understanding of Bahamasair’s mission and a determination to master its many challenges, he was, in every sense of the term, the heart and soul of the flag carrier. His interest in the welfare of its workers at all echelons of the organization, his sense of duty to the travelling public, and his absolute insistence on adherence to the most rigourous safety standards were just some of the many things that distinguished Mr. Woods’ stellar stewardship of Bahamasair all through the years.

In addition to all that, Mr. Woods was a loyal and faithful friend of many years. I will miss him enormously.

On behalf of the government and people of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas and on my own behalf and that of my family, I extend condolences to Mr. Woods’ widow and daughter.

The nation mourns the loss of one of its finest citizens and dedicated nation builders. May this outstanding Bahamian rest in peace.

Source: Bahamas Information Services