Ambassador Curtis Ward remembered for deep commitment to public service

Ambassador Curtis Ward is being remembered as a distinguished ‘son of the soil’ who served Jamaica with care and integrity and was someone who was committed to public service.

Ward, who was Jamaica’s former representative at the United Nations, died last night at his home in Maryland in the United States.

Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness, in a post on his social media accounts, said Jamaica is grateful for Ward’s service and the example he left behind.

“Ambassador Ward’s work at the United Nations reflected his deep sense of duty and his belief in respectful dialogue and principled engagement,” he said.

Noting that Ward remained connected to Jamaica and committed to its progress, he said he will be remembered for “his calm presence, thoughtful counsel, and the steady way in which he carried the responsibility of representing our nation.”

Stating that Ward’s life and work “reflected a deep commitment to public service, international engagement, and principled global discourse”, Donna Scott-Mottley, Opposition Spokesperson on Foreign Affairs, said his contribution to Jamaica’s understanding of international affairs was both exceptional and enduring, particularly at a time of growing global instability and uncertainty.

“Ambassador Ward was a voice of reason, depth, and perspective in an increasingly complex world. He brought intellectual rigour and moral clarity to discussions on global affairs, and he did so with courage and conviction,” Scott-Mottley said.

She noted that Ward was widely respected for his ability to place international developments in proper historical and geopolitical context, making complex global issues accessible and relevant to national conversations.

“He was someone whose insight could always be relied upon. On virtually any international matter, you could reach out to him for thoughtful analysis and clear explanation. His understanding of global dynamics strengthened public debate and informed policymaking at the highest levels,” she added.

She extended her condolences to his wife and other family and friends, colleagues, and all who were influenced by his work and wisdom.

Ward was born in Treasure Beach, St Elizabeth, and attended Manchester High School and later Howard University in the US.

He joined the Jamaican Foreign Service in the 1970s before settling in the United States, where he worked as an attorney for many years.

He resumed serving the Government of Jamaica in an official capacity when he was assigned the UN role and remained active in regional and international security matters over the last two decades.

Ward, the founder of the Ward Post, was a prolific writer and a major contributor to The Gleaner newspaper.

Follow The Gleaner on X, formerly Twitter, and Instagram @JamaicaGleaner and on Facebook @GleanerJamaica. Send us a message on WhatsApp at 1-876-499-0169 or email us at onlinefeedback@gleanerjm.com or editors@gleanerjm.com.