Date: 29 June 2001
Contact: Kanchan Paser
Tel: 212-963-0343
Fax: 212-963-1395
For Immediate Release
SUNSHINE AWARDS® MOURNS PASSING
OF BOBBY THOMAS
Teaneck, New Jersey, 29 June 2001…………… The SUNSHINE Awards®
organization today released the following statement:
It is with great sadness that the SUNSHINE Awards® has learned of the
untimely passing of Bobby Thomas. "Bobby was a good friend and a strong
supporter of the SUNSHINE Awards® over these many years", said Gil Figaro,
Sr., the organization's Founder and Chairman. "I am personally saddened by
his death and share a grief, which I know is felt by his many friends and
admirers. With his passing, I have lost a dear friend and a friendship, which
spanned many years. He will be sorely missed.
"In 1989 Bobby was my co-host at the very first SUNSHINE Awards®, held
in New York. His support of the Awards throughout the years was a reflection of
his unwavering commitment to enhancing our art forms and promoting our culture.
It was also a reflection of his love for his people and his heritage.
"Bobby was an individual who was well liked and admired by many, both in
his personal and professional life. As a television announcer, he exhibited a
high level of professionalism and imprinted his personal style on his job. He
set a standard, which undoubtedly was an inspiration for a younger generation
aspiring to that profession. As a pilot captain with BWIA, Bobby stood out as a
professional who always strove for excellence, and anyone who had the pleasure
of flying with him can certainly vouch for his capabilities as an excellent
pilot. Trinidad & Tobago has lost a true role model, someone of whom we can
all be quite proud.
"The SUNSHINE Awards® extends to his wife, children, family and
friends, its heartfelt condolences and sincere sympathy in this time of grief.
To this I add my personal expression of sympathy and pray that they will be
given the courage and grace to keep them strong during this period of great
sadness".
