“He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” — Revelation 21:4
Former Trinidadian Central Bank Governor Ainsworth Harewood, Professor Baldwin Mootoo and I were members of the University of the West Indies (UWI) Senior Cup cricket team at Mona, Jamaica, in the early 1960s. We were privileged to play alongside Sir Frank Worrell, who was then Warden of Irvine Hall.
The three of us were also privileged to serve on the Sir Frank Worrell Memorial Committee in Trinidad, which organized, among other initiatives, the commemoration of the 50th anniversary of his death in 2017.
Another connection — and a matter of record — is that Professor Mootoo inherited my secretary when I relocated from UWI, St. Augustine, to Barbados in 1974.
In reflecting on the life of Baldwin Mootoo, Ainsworth Harewood recalled a friendship that stretched back to our days as cricket colleagues, remembering him as a man of humility, intellect and unwavering dedication.
A distinguished scientist and educator, Professor Mootoo earned his undergraduate degree at UWI Mona before completing doctoral studies in chemistry. He went on to devote much of his professional life to the UWI St. Augustine campus in Trinidad, where he influenced generations of students through his scholarship, mentorship and commitment to academic excellence.
Baldwin Mootoo also found enduring companionship with his wife, Dr. Joyce Lodenquai, whom he met in Jamaica. Following her passing in 2025, he was sustained by the love and support of their daughters, Judy and Karlene, who reside in Canada.
“Professor Mootoo’s life reflected a profound dedication to learning, to his country, and to community. He will be remembered as a scholar, a cricketer, a husband and a father who gave generously of his time and expertise. May his memory be a blessing to his family, his students, and all who had the privilege of knowing him,” Ainsworth Harewood stated.
As I reflect on Baldwin’s life and our shared experiences over many decades, I give thanks for the privilege of having known him as a fellow student, cricketer, colleague and friend. He represented the very best of the Caribbean tradition of scholarship, service and humility. While we mourn his passing, we celebrate a life well lived and a legacy that will continue to inspire all who were touched by his example. May he rest in eternal peace.
Dr. Basil Springer, GCM, is a corporate governance adviser. His email address is basilgf@marketplaceexcellence.com. His columns may be found at www.nothingbeatsbusiness.com.