Linden says goodbye to former bauxite chief, Horace James

Feb 10, 2019 News

Returning for the last time to the place that had become his home, Horace James was simultaneously given a hero’s welcome and farewell by residents who had embraced him as a colleague, brother, friend and mentor.

Saying goodbye: At the funeral yesterday in Linden.

The siren at the old Alumina Plant blew repeatedly- welcoming him to the Mackenzie Sports Club Ground for the last time. But somehow those blasts sounded more like wailing.
Lindeners turned out in their numbers to bid farewell to one of the bauxite Company’s biggest stalwarts, who succumbed last week. He was in his late sixties.
Horace James had indeed etched his footprints in the bauxite of Linden, and had somehow impacted the lives of all he came into contact with.
He was probably one of the most down to earth men, never too big or too busy to “buss a lime with the boys.”
On the other hand, he rubbed shoulders with those in the highest offices in the land.
And so they came -from all walks of life, to see him one last time.
Among those paying their respects was Minister Keith Scott, who extolled the virtues of James pointing to his numerous accomplishments.
Scott revealed that James was chosen out of fourteen persons shortlisted for the position of CEO of NICIL,as he was identified as the most suitable candidate.
Pointing out that James was very instrumental in the establishment of the Linden museum, Scott called it “a commendable feat”, adding that he had gone too soon, “but that his work and achievements are so dynamic, that he will live on for many generations to come.”
“The community of Linden is what it is today because of the tireless input of pioneers like Comrade James,” Scott stated.
He expressed the hope that the younger generation would emulate the virtues and standards set by James.
Pointing out that James was bestowed with the Arrow of Achievement, Scott said that James was not only an outstanding person, and not only a game changer but was also a trail blazer and standard setter, both in economics, community and at National development.
Former colleague and former Prime Minister Samuel Hinds was also there, along with Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs Basil Williams, and Regional Leaders.
Hinds, who had worked with the bauxite Company before delving into politics, reminisced about life back then, with Horace holding down numerous executive positions, but yet never losing the common touch.
Meanwhile Former APNU Region Ten Party Chairman Derron Adams in a facebook post noted,
“Today while saddened by his passing, it’s an honour to be a part of the thanksgiving service of this leader.
Horace James was a great man, an incredible intellect, a man of matchless courage, one of the great men of Linden and Guyana.
Mr. James has left behind a rich legacy that could serve us at this chaotic hour. Our reminiscence of this legendary man carries special significance.
“His demise has left a huge void in our politics.
Mr. James’ contribution to the progress and development of Guyana and Region #10 will be long remembered.”