Tributes have been paid to a beloved receptionist at the Cabinet Office, who has died, aged 69.

David Burt said in the House of Assembly on Friday that Beunice Crockwell’s spirit would “brighten even that place”.

The Premier told MPs: “She was kind to every person who came into the Cabinet Office, regardless of party or who you were. She loved life.”

Craig Cannonier, the Leader of the Opposition, said that Ms Crockwell was a “lovely and spirited person” with a love of travel, and offered condolences to her fellow Cabinet staff.

Leah Scott, the Deputy Leader of the Opposition, said Ms Crockwell was a “ray of sunshine — an always welcoming woman”.

Renée Ming, the Progressive Labour Party MP for St George’s North, said Ms Crockwell was “an avid St George’s supporter” at Cup Match.

Christopher Famous, a PLP backbencher, called her “a Belco mom” to Garrett Crockwell, his colleague at the power plant.

Michael Weeks, of the PLP, told the House that Ms Crockwell would “always remind us that we are doing the people’s business”.

Scott Simmons, a government MP, hailed her “mischievous wit, big smile and deep laugh”.

Tinée Furbert, the Junior Minister of Disability Affairs, said her passing was a loss to the community at Duck’s Puddle in Hamilton Parish.

Ms Furbert added: “She was my aunt, as the stepsister to my mother.”

Jamahl Simmons, the Minister without Portfolio, called her a close family friend and “cruising buddy” to his parents.

Michael Scott, the PLP MP for Sandys North, said that Ms Crockwell had been a close friend of the late PLP leader Dame Lois Browne-Evans.

Both were now gone, Mr Scott noted. “Love conquers death,” he added.

Ewart Brown, the former Premier, recalled Ms Crockwell as “the only Cabinet office receptionist with whom I ever worked as Premier”.

Dr Brown added, in a statement sent on Monday: “She was also the only person I can recall who wore a bright, wide smile everyday no matter the climate in the office.

“I clearly recall the day when angry demonstrators against the Uighurs being allowed into Bermuda filled the Cabinet grounds and employees were concerned.

“Ms Crockwell remained calm and with that ever-present smile said, ‘Premier, don’t worry, you can handle it.’”

Dr Brown added: “She was a delight to work with and I will always be grateful for her love and support.

“Wanda and I wish her family strength and understanding during this difficult time.”

UPDATE: this story has been amended to include the statement from Ewart Brown, the former Premier.