Guy Ellis, former editor of THE VOICE Newspaper, passed away last night leaving behind a grieving nation, family, and friends.
Considered one of the finest print journalists Saint Lucia has ever produced, and mentor to several persons in and out of journalism, Ellis’ impact on journalism in Saint Lucia, particularly among budding reporters that started their careers at THE VOICE, will be eternally remembered.
Known in equal measure for his cool persona, Ellis was the consummate journalist/editor who combined his professionalism and ‘cool guy’ personality to his work, which stood out as shining examples to be emulated by upcoming journalists.
His ethical conduct and professionalism in the journalistic field was revered among his peers, both at home, regionally and beyond. His writing as a correspondent with some regional and international media outlets afforded him a wide knowledge within the media field.
Ellis also contributed to the literary field as an author and consultant, with works that included a comprehensive history of Saint Lucia, about its people, habitat, and the unfolding political issues.
He begun his career at THE VOICE on May 2, 1962, marking 60 years as a journalist last year.
Writing about his time as a journalist Ellis said his first assignment at THE VOICE Newspaper was a football match between St. Vincent and Dominica in the Windward Islands Inter-Secondary Schools tournament in which Dominica won 3-1.
Ellis said the timing of his entry into journalism was “just perfect.” And while he will be remembered for his work in print journalism, he did a stint with Radio Saint Lucia in his early days as a journalist and wrote news articles and features for the Associated Press (AP), Reuters, Caribbean News Agency (CANA) and other media organisations in the wider Caribbean and Latin America.
The media icon died last night surrounded by family members. He was 78 years-old.