April 11, 2009 — Condolences began Saturday for former Sen. Claude "Tappy" Molloy, who died Friday.
"Claude Molloy was a strong believer in the Virgin Islands and served the people of the Virgin Islands for years in both the Legislative and Executive Branches of government," Gov. John deJongh Jr. said in a statement issued late Friday.
Molloy served three terms in the Legislature and was president of the 10th Legislature. He also served as the Legislature's post auditor, administrator of the Government Employees Retirement System and commissioner of the Property and Procurement Department.
He also spent several terms on the V.I. Water and Power Authority board and held several other government positions.
"Tappy and I also worked together at the Department of Finance during the administration of the late Governor Alexander A. Farrelly," deJongh recalled.
DeJongh said he was shocked at the news of Molloy’s sudden death.
"It was just this past Monday that Tappy, Juel and I exchanged pleasantries at the funeral of another political giant in our community, former Sen. John L. Maduro," the governor said, referring to Molloy's wife, Juel Rhymer Molloy.
The governor said that a grateful community is once again mourning the loss of a man who contributed to making the Virgin Islands a better place for everyone.
Sen. Shawn-Michael Malone said in a statement Saturday that Molloy was one of the more significant and inspirational legislative leaders.
"He was a notable public figure who exemplified decency, proficiency and good character. He was definitely an influential member of the V.I. community who commanded the respect and admiration of everyone," Malone said.
Malone also spoke about the trio of V.I. greats that died in the past month. Former Sen. Elmo Roebuck died March 17 and Maduro on March 23.
He said the community was dealt a swift and strong blow with the death of these three leaders who gave of themselves tirelessly to better serve the community.
"They paved the way for younger political leaders such as myself to continue the duty of bringing forth positive and effective change within our beloved Virgin Islands," Malone said.
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