A former manager at Grotto Bay Beach Resort and Spa who rose from his start as a bellman has been hailed as a champion for tourism.

Clyde Darrell, who passed away recently, was celebrated this week as a man who helped to build up his colleagues and promote the island.

Stephen Todd, the chief executive of the Bermuda Hotel Association, described Mr Darrell as a “consummate professional” who went above and beyond to ensure visitors received the best possible service.

“He served as a role model for his industry colleagues and was responsible for coaching and mentoring a number of individuals who went on to pursue careers in the hotel and other key industry sectors,” he added.

Mr Todd knew Mr Darrell from Churchill Secondary School and they went on to work together frequently.

“What I remember most about Mr Darrell was his outgoing personality and keen interest in always seeking to assist his colleagues in the industry,” he said.

“You could always call on Mr Darrell and his wise counsel to give advice and guidance on the best way of meeting and exceeding the expectations of guests.”

Mr Darrell started at Grotto Bay as a bellman on July 1, 1973, and was promoted to bell captain the next year.

He later became the superintendent of guest services in 1979, rooms division manager in 1980, hotel operations manager in 1988 and resident manager in 1994.

Mr Darrell went on to serve on the Liquor Licensing Authority after retiring from the resort in 2018.

Mr Todd said: “The contributions of Clyde in no small way ensured that Bermuda remained at the forefront of the repeat guest selecting Bermuda and the hotel for their travel experiences and that of their family members.”

JP Martens, the managing director of Grotto Bay, worked with Mr Darrell for decades. He recalled his likeability and unflagging willingness to help.

Mr Martens said: “He was respected by all those in the travel industry and a champion for Bermuda.

“There was no one who loved the country, its people and its tourism product more than him — he would take to the streets selling Bermuda and Grotto Bay.

“Bermuda and Grotto Bay have lost a true ambassador for tourism and we’re sorry to have lost him.”

Clyde Darrell, who worked at Grotto Bay Beach Resort and Spa for almost 50 years, was born on July 11, 1953. He died in 2025, aged 71