MIAMI – Jamaicans and friends in the Florida community will be afforded the opportunity to pay respects to the late Herb McKenley, O.M., Jamaica’s renowned sports icon, as a condolence book was opened today (Dec. 5) at the Jamaica Consulate General in downtown Miami.
Mr. McKenley died last Monday (Nov. 26) at the age of 85 at the University Hospital of the West Indies.
Consul General Ricardo Allicock said, “it was an honor to pay tribute to Jamaica’s first Olympian describing him as the progenitor of Jamaica’s Olympic achievements.”
The book condolence remains open until Friday (Dec. 7) from 9 a.m. through 5 p.m
He was known for his relentless efforts spanning a career of track and field. Upon retirement from sports, he remained involved in sports administration serving as President of Jamaica’s Amateur Athletic Association, and was coach for the national sports team (1954 – 1973).
At the time, he also led a youth group that produced Jamaican born international sports greats like Donald Quarrie, Lennox Miller and Merlene Ottey.
He will be accorded an official funeral on Saturday (Dec. 8) at the National Arena and will be buried in National Heroes Park.
A graduate of Calabar High School in Kingston, Mr. McKenley also earned a Bachelor’s degree from Illinois.
He is survived by his wife, Beverley, four children and other family members.
