Local Leaders Mourn Passing of Former Senator Edgar Iles: 'We Have Lost a Dedicated Community Leader'

Local leaders have been sharing memories of former Senator Edgar Iles, describing him as a stalwart of the community whose legacy will live on. He died on Saturday at the age of 93.

Governor Albert Bryan in a statement issued Wednesday, said, “We have lost a dedicated community leader with a long and storied legacy of service to the people of the Virgin Islands. As a St. Croix senator, a labor advocate, a Rotarian, a Legionnaire, a culture bearer – his life’s work centered on supporting families and improving the quality of life for his fellow citizens. His contributions to numerous non-profit organizations are immeasurable and will not be forgotten. Yolanda and I offer our sincere condolences to his family, especially his daughters Kisha and Juanita and son Ray. He was a true Virgin Islander and will be sorely missed by our entire community.”

Delegate to Congress Stacey Plaskett on Tuesday stated, “St. Croix, particularly the Frederiksted community, has suffered a great loss in the passing of Edgar Iles. A faithful Rotarian, having served as a President of Rotary West and former 2 term member of the Virgin Islands legislature, he truly lived out the motto, “Service above Self” with his life. Mr. Iles was also an active member of the American Legion, having served our country in the U.S. military during the Korean War. In the words of one of his sons, he was a true statesman, community-oriented. He also took the helm of the Crucian Christmas Festival, sharing his love of and high regard of Crucian culture. Most importantly, Mr. Iles was a devoted father, grandfather, husband and friend.

“I give the condolences of myself, family and staff to Mr. Iles’ wife Dolores, his beloved children—5 sons and 3 daughters—and grandchildren, along with his extended family and friends who mourn his passing. May God’s peace comfort your hearts during this time.”