Sportspeople and administrators paid special tribute to the late Johnson St Louis, President of the Grenada Amateur Boxing Association (GABA) who died on Monday (March 01, 2021) after a long illness.
The former Ministry of Agriculture Senior Fisheries officer spent more than four decades in boxing, serving in just about every capacity.
St Louis’ involvement in boxing dates back to the late 1970s when he officiated as judge, scorer and later a referee. In the last 25 years, he functioned as a leading administrator, eventually succeeding Ralph James as President and continued until sickness forced him to give up the top position.
On Facebook, dozens of sportspeople and fans of boxing and other sports described him as a genuine and passionate lover and promoter of boxing who will be missed.
St Louis managed several Grenada teams to the Annual OECS Championships and Caribbean Amateur Championship and was highly respected. As President, he was noted for organizing big “Welcome Home” VIP treatment for successful boxers upon arrival at the MBIA.
Under St Louis’ Presidency, Grenada debuted in the World Amateur Championship in Russia in 2018. Throughout his years of service to boxing he worked dedicatedly with the likes of senior veteran coach Norbert Grant and was successful in establishing in Carriacou and Petite Martinique a Boxing GYM to develop the sport there.
Long-serving treasurer of the Boxing Association Johnson Dion described him as a very decent, amiable, honest and highly trustworthy human being. “Johnson’s passion for the combat sport of boxing was incomparable,” said Dion who was elected treasurer in 2013.
“He was neck-deep into boxing affairs. Johnson was a trusted lieutenant. I tapped into the Johnson St Louis’ circle of friends and business associates to raise funds.”
Dion said Johnson excelled at fundraising initiatives and obtained commendable results. “Johnson was a rare gem of divine creation. In all my years I have been blessed on earth, I have never come across another human being with a Johnson St Louis personality.”
According to Dion, “he was incapable of being upset, annoyed or angry, and if he was ever, his countenance never portrayed it outwardly.” He possessed a wholesome and harmonious personality. He was at peace with himself.”
Minister of Sport Yolande Bain-Hosford speaking in Parliament on Tuesday paid tribute to Johnson, describing his contribution to fisheries and boxing as being most outstanding. She noted his great drive and energy in promoting both his passion and achieving success. She also revealed that it was while on a trip to Iceland on the Dept of Fisheries business that he fell sick.
He passed away when he succumbed to cancer at the General Hospital.
