Alexander Moorhead, former Senate Minority Leader and Board Chair Emeritus of the University of the Virgin Islands, has died. He was 77. By. UVI
Following the news of the passing of Alexander Moorhead, a former senator, Chamber of Commerce president and chair emeritus of the University of the Virgin Islands Board of Trustees, tributes and accolades have been pouring in from officials across the territory.
“Alex was iconic in stature and grace,” said Governor Albert Bryan Jr. via a statement issued on Sunday morning. “I always looked up to him as a young Virgin Islander working in the refinery. At this age, I understand he was at the table to make pathways and represent us when few could. I will miss him, and the Virgin Islands surely will.”
Delegate to Congress Stacey Plaskett said on Monday, “Alex Moorhead, was a refined and dignified gentlemen – courteous and honorable. His height only magnified his courtly demeanor and I was saddened to hear of his passing. Mr. Moorhead served in various capacities within our community—he served three terms as a Senator in the Virgin Islands Legislature (1971 – 1976), then went on to work at the Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority and finally Hess Oil/HOVENSA as the Vice President of Government Affairs, Community Relations. Ultimately, Mr. Moorhead’s life was marked by his deep commitment to the advancement of our home, these beautiful Virgin Islands.
“Although we mourn his passing, I am grateful for the tremendous example of service to one’s community set by Mr. Moorhead. In addition to his excellence in the professional public and private sectors, he was well known for his decades of service as a member of UVI’s Board of Trustees. He exuded a level of discipline and commitment that inspired other board members and our larger community.
“I send my prayers for comfort and peace to his loved ones, family and friends.”
Dr. Havid Hall, UVI President, called Mr. Moorhead “the most meticulous Board member and lead whom everyone relied upon for excellence and leadership.”
During the 24 years he served on the UVI Board, “few have dedicated more personal time and interest to the advancement of the University than Moorhead,” Dr. Hall continued.
A message from Senate President Novelle Francis called Mr. Moorhead “a consummate statesman and public servant,” saying the three-term senator “always put the Virgin Islands first before politics.”
“Our territory has certainly benefited from Mr. Moorhead’s leadership, economic and business acumen and his service, to include serving on the UVI Board of Trustees for five consecutive terms,” Senator Francis noted.
Alexander Moorhead died on Friday at the age of 77.
