JLP lauds legendary Stephen Francis for transforming Jamaican athletics

The Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) has joined the nation in mourning the passing of Vincent Stephen “Franno” Francis, a legendary figure in Jamaican athletics. Francis, who was 64, died on Saturday after a period of illness.

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His work in repeatedly guiding some of our most stellar men and women sprinters to glory is unparalleled not only in Jamaica, but across the globe. He was unique in his ability to consistently bring previously unheralded athletes to international acclaim.

In a statement, JLP Communication Taskforce Chairman Senator Abka Fitz-Henley paid tribute to Francis, describing him as "astute and diligent" in his coaching career. Fitz-Henley highlighted Francis's unique ability to consistently elevate both heralded and unheralded Jamaican sprinters to international success, a feat he deemed unparalleled globally. "His work in repeatedly guiding some of our most stellar men and women sprinters to glory is unparalleled not only in Jamaica, but across the globe," Fitz-Henley stated.

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On the regretful occasion of him being visited by quietus, the Jamaica Labour Party salutes his contribution to our country and gives thanks for his life and work, which were characterised by distinction and excellence.

Fitz-Henley acknowledged that Francis, like many accomplished individuals, was a complex personality. However, he stressed that Francis's dedication to Jamaica and the positive impact he had on numerous lives through his coaching were beyond question. The JLP official also recognized Francis's understanding of sport's power to bridge political divides and foster national unity. "The words icon and legend are oftentimes misapplied. However, there can be no doubt that they are applicable to Stephen Francis," Fitz-Henley remarked.

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The words icon and legend are oftentimes misapplied. However, there can be no doubt that they are applicable to Stephen Francis.

The JLP extended condolences to Francis's family, thanking them for sharing his talent with Jamaica and the world. Fitz-Henley noted that the conferral of the Order of Jamaica on Francis in 2017 was a fitting recognition of his outstanding contributions. "May the soul of Vincent Stephen Francis rest in peace, and light perpetual shine upon him," he concluded.

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We thank his family for allowing him to share his talent with Jamaica and the world. We offer them our condolences in this, their time of great bereavement. May the soul of Vincent Stephen Francis rest in peace, and light perpetual shine upon him.