Former St George’s Deputy Mayor Louis “Red” DeSilva has been honoured in wake of his death.

Mr DeSilva, who held multiple posts in the Corporation of St George’s and served as president of the St George’s Cricket Club, was hailed as a dedicated and principled member of the St George’s community.

Michael Dunkley, the Premier, called Mr DeSilva “larger than life”, saying: “Whenever you encountered him, he always greeted you with a welcoming word.

“Through his service at the Corporation of St George’s and his leadership and participation at the St George’s Cricket Club, ‘Red’ demonstrated his commitment and love for the people of the East End.

“On behalf of the Government, I wish to extend my heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Louis DeSilva. He made such an impact in so many lives and he will truly be missed.”

Meanwhile, Marc Bean, the leader of the opposition, noted that Mr DeSilva was a longstanding and staunch supporter of the Progressive Labour Party and had worked hard in the party’s St George’s branch.

“Mr DeSilva was a community organiser, trailblazer, and a proud St Georgian, and this only begins to describe a man that made a profound impact on the people he came in contact with,” Mr Bean said.

“Mr DeSilva has always been one to be forthright, and of high moral character, which is something many of us came to value and appreciate alongside his many contributions to the community. From Mr DeSilva we could each learn lessons in character, fortitude and wisdom, and our thoughts and prayers remain with his friends and family as they reflect upon the meaningful life he led.”

Lovitta Foggo, MP for St David’s, said Mr DeSilva was someone who made important contributions to the St George’s community in his roles with the St George’s Cricket Club and the Corporation of St George’s.

“His work contributions ensured that the traditions held dear were passed along to the next generation,” she said.

“Red DeSilva was well-liked and respected, and his departure from us will be a miss. It is not often in this life that one gets to share time with someone as sincere and direct as Red.

He has left an indelible imprint in the hearts and minds of those who were fortunate to know him. His memories will be cherished.”

And Renee Ming, a PLP senator and St George’s resident, said: “Louis ‘Red’ DeSilva was a proud Bermudian a man who was not afraid to tell you what he was thinking.

“Forthright, kind, generous and fair are attributes I would use to describe Uncle Red. St George’s mourns yet again as another soldier has fallen.

“Uncle Red, you have fought a good fight, you have finished the race, you have kept the faith. Aunt Sandra, Chelito, Chaka and the entire DeSilva family please accept my heartfelt condolence and sympathy on behalf myself, my family and the Bermuda Progressive Labour Party.”