July 26, 2001 – Gov. Charles W. Turnbull has extended the condolences of the government and the people to the loved ones, surviving relatives and friends of three long-time Virgin Islands residents who recently passed away.
The governor added his voice in mourning the passing of historian, hotelier and author, Samuel Boynes. He was the owner and operator of L'Hotel Boynes, who made a difference in the lives of many Virgin Islanders through his undaunted desire to document his research into his local family ancestry. "He has helped to encourage an awareness in the community on the importance of preserving our culture and history," the governor said.
Gov. Turnbull also mourned the passing of Jean Jorgensen Brown-Hendricks, who was one of the first tour operators in the development of the tourism industry in the Virgin Islands. During her outstanding career as a journalist she contributed to President John F. Kennedy's successful campaign in 1960 as a speechwriter, and was a writer for WSTA Radio "Town Crier" program. She and her late husband former police captain, Jens Hendricks, owned and operated several successful businesses including the Caribbean Travel Agency, Tropic Tours and Palm Passage Liquor Store. She was unwavering in her commitment to improve her surroundings, the governor noted.
The governor also cited the passing of Milton "Mac" Penn, former director of the Office of Civil Defense and Emergency Services (presently VITEMA). Penn was instrumental in the development of the Civil Defense Volunteer Corps, which later became the St. Thomas Rescue Squad. He was also a deeply spiritual and gentle individual. He dedicated his life to initiatives, which improved the quality of life for the people of this territory
Turnbull extended his deepest sympathies and prayers for comfort for those who mourn the passing of these three individuals, who gave freely of their time and energies to the benefit of this community. "May their souls rest in peace," the governor concluded.
