Statement on the passing of Mr Emery Robertson Barrister- at- Law Solicitor- Notary Public

By René M. Baptiste CMG

I mourn the loss of Senior Mr. Emery Robertson. I knew Mr. Robertson since I was a High School student. I am acquainted with him through my cousin Elroy Joseph. I knew him to be soft spoken, suave, sophisticated man. He was an Anglican during those early days.

When I came to the Bar of St Vincent and the Grenadines in 1976 he stretched a hand to me as a Senior. We have worked well together over the years. Even when he was appointed a Senator in the Mitchell Administration and served as Attorney General, we maintained a fair relationship and would banter and tease about Political matters.

I have heard young lawyers remark very often that he was most kind to them and would either assist or challenge them from time to time. He appeared at the Court of Appeal and Civil Counsel.

A few years ago, when the OECS Council was meeting in St Vincent, it was determined to honor the Veterans at Bar who all happened to have served as Attorney General in this State:- Mr Arthur Williams OBE, Mr Carlyle Dougan QC and Mr Emery Robertson. I feel satisfied that they knew they were held in high esteem among their colleagues.

Senior as he were called was also a favorite of the ladies of Soroptimist International of St Vincent and the Grenadines, as he often would accompany his wife Dr Shirley Robertson to Soroptimist functions. She was most active as a President and on Programme Action Committee, and that meant he was a ‘Soroptimister’, always present always supporting.

His Law Firm was one of those that embraced their children as members of the Firm – Robertson & Robertson with all his offspring being Legally trained.

We all know his daughter Samantha was his Right Hand Partner in the Firm. His other daughter Mrs. Sandra Drayton and his son also for short spells were with him.

Several Bar Associations across the Region sent their expressions of the condolences within hours of his passing. Mr. Robertson had close to 50 years at the Bar.

We extend our deepest sympathy to his Family, other Relatives, Colleagues and Friends.

May he rest in peace.