By the Barbados Workers’ Union Cooperative Credit Union Ltd .
The righteous perish, and no one takes it to heart; the devout are taken away, and no one understands they are taken away to be spared from evil. Those who walk uprightly enter into peace; they find rest as they lie in death.
Isaiah 57:1-2.
Bro LeVere Richards’ contribution to the advancement of the co-operative business model and the upliftment of the members of Barbados Workers’ Union Cooperative Credit Union Ltd must forever be remembered and appreciated. Bro LeVere stands out as a stalwart pioneer of the BWU Co-operative Credit Union Limited (BWUCCUL), having earned this distinction by his unparalleled contribution to the stability, growth and development of the credit union in its formative years.
He worked along with many other pioneers to lay a strong foundation for the cherished institution that has become a financial pillar in the Barbadian society. He also played a major role in the Credit Union acquiring its first home, the former Barbados Workers’ Union Headquarters, at the corner of Nelson & Fairchild Streets.
During his time with the BWUCCUL Bro. Richards held many positions including President (1995-1996), Vice President (1994-1995), Secretary (1990-1994), Director and Credit Committee Member serving on the first Committee with Bro Vere Rock and Frank Walcott who subsequently became The Right Excellent Sir Frank Walcott (now deceased). Additionally, not only was he officially, the first registered member of the BWUCCUL, he was also instrumental in encouraging many members to join the Credit Union movement.
Bro. Richards served the Credit Union selflessly as a volunteer espousing the principles and values of people helping people, volunteerism, and ethical business practices. He was rugged in his approach; but he was also the epitome of humility, integrity and service, and a role model worthy of emulation. He was loyal to the movement, did not suffer fools and kept his friends limited to progressives and deep thinkers. In any discussion he had a view and expressed it with conviction. He was a good canvasser and organizer for any cause or individual he supported.
During the period that the Barbados Cooperative & Credit Union League Ltd was experiencing severe financial challenges and its continuity as a going concern seemed rather doubtful, its survival and the subsequent turnaround of its financial position, was due in large measure to the strong support of all its affiliates. The Barbados Workers’ Union Cooperative Credit Union demonstrated what turned out to be decisive leadership as one of the first Credit Unions to agree to leave its funds in the deposit facilities of the League and forego interest revenue in order to provide fiscal breathing space for the League to help reduce its expenses our Bro LeVere gave full and unswerving support to the Credit Union’s position.
Bro. Richards represented the Credit Union on many occasions as a delegate at League meetings and served on its Credit and Supervisory Committees.
On Behalf of the Board of Directors, Committees, Management and Staff of the BWUCCUL, we extend sincerest condolences to his wife Cynthia, daughters Sharon Murray and Marsha Greenidge, who is currently the Assistant Secretary on the Board of Directors, and all other family, friends and associates of Bro. LeVere Richards.
Bro. LeVere will be missed by many, but never will he be forgotten by those who were fortunate enough to have known him!
May he rest in Peace and rise in glory.
Tribute written by Brother Ashton Turney