The Progressive Labour Party paid tribute to the former independent senator Michelle Simmons, who died last week.

A spokeswoman said that the party had been “saddened” by news of the death of the veteran educator and politician.

The spokeswoman said: “Mrs Simmons dedicated most of her life to education working in the UK, Nigeria and Bermuda. Appointed as the sixth principal of her alma mater, The Berkeley Institute, in 1993, she was the first female to hold this leadership position and oversaw significant changes to the school including its relocation. She served in this capacity for 20 years, retiring in June 2013.

“As an independent senator for five years, she gave distinguished service to the people of Bermuda and was respected for being well prepared, fair and open-minded.

“A woman of great faith and grace, Mrs Simmons committed her life to sharing the Lord's teaching. In 2020, she authored her first and only book, The Guild of the Good Shepherd and Bermuda's Forgotten Anglican Missionaries.

“The book highlights how the guild movement was ‘critical in the development of the Black community’ as it was formed during a time when Bermuda and its churches were still segregated.

“Michelle Simmons has left a great legacy through her distinguished careers in the community and the thousands of students whose lives she touched.

“The Progressive Labour Party extends its deepest condolences to her husband, Reverend Dr Erskine Simmons, her sister Sonia and other family members and friends.

“May she rest in eternal peace.”