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Former MP Hilson ‘Brother B’ Baptist Remembered as Community Giant at Emotional Public Viewing
Hundreds gathered at the Bolands basketball court last evening to pay their respects to the late Hilson “Brother B” Baptist, former Member of Parliament for St Mary’s South, who passed away at the age of 77.
Baptist, a four-term MP first elected in 1994, was remembered for his decades-long commitment to public service, grassroots development, and his larger-than-life personality that endeared him to constituents across political lines.
The solemn event began with family members filing past the casket for a final farewell, followed by a steady stream of community members, political leaders, and friends who packed the venue.
A stage erected at the court featured tributes, poems, and personal memories shared by those closest to him.
UPP Political Leader Jamale Pringle described Baptist as “a patriot, a statesman, a constituency representative and community advocate.
” He added, “Hilson Brother Baptist has left us but left us richer for having known him, worked with him and been loved by him.”
Chester Hughes, a relative and member of the Integrated Workers Union, praised the former MP’s legacy, recalling his pivotal role in transforming St Mary’s South into one of the most economically vibrant areas of Antigua.
“He developed tourism, agriculture, and touched every household,” Hughes said. “He loved people.”
Current MP for St Mary’s South, Kelvin “Shugy” Simon, spoke of Baptist’s profound influence on his own political journey: “He saw politics in me before I saw it in myself. He paved the way for me. Even after he left office, he never left the community.”
Simon shared memories of Baptist’s support for local youth, especially through sports, and promised to honour his legacy with a future community initiative.
“He was always with the people—Labour, UPP, it didn’t matter. He was everyone’s MP.”
Among those in attendance were former Prime Minister Baldwin Spencer, former MP Nat Moses, and many members of the United Progressive Party and the wider political community.
Baptist’s daughter, in an emotional tribute, described her father as a man of action and integrity.
“He didn’t wait for permission to help. His legacy isn’t measured in wealth, but in the lives he touched, the hands he shook, and the meals he shared.”
Nicknamed “Brother B,” Hilson Baptist was known not only as a politician, but also as a restaurateur, martial arts instructor, and advocate for youth and agriculture.
His contribution to national development included the promotion of the Antigua Black Pineapple, launching festivals to celebrate local produce, and aiding in hotel expansion in the south.
As night fell, hymns and tributes continued to echo through the Bolans court, where the community came together not just to mourn, but to celebrate a life of service.
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A true son of the soil—his impact will never be forgotten.
Brother B was one ah dem man who walk wid de people. Real community man.
Thank you, Brother B, for your years of service and heart.
Man like Brother B nah easy fi come by again. He was one of a kind.
His legacy lives on through all the lives he touched.
Where was Jacqui Quinn?
“my office was picketed by a bunch of RAG TAGS”
Broda B was always sharing. As a youth my sister and I would go to his restaurant and get something to eat after school. He was my sister’s Godfather and even with his political position he still remembered me. He didn’t act like he was better than anyone. Very down to earth and humble man. May you rest in peace.