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By Azara Lavia
Former Member of Parliament for St Mary’s South and beloved national figure, Hilson Nathaniel “Brother B” Baptiste, was laid to rest on Wednesday following a moving celebration of life and legacy at the Cathedral of St John the Divine.
The 77-year-old former government minister died on April 23, 2025 leaving behind a legacy of public service, cultural pride, and a profound love for the people of Antigua and Barbuda.
Tributes from all walks of life reflected the depth of respect and affection held for the man many considered not only a leader, but a mentor and friend.
In the packed cathedral the ceremony paid homage to Baptiste’s enduring contributions most notably as Minister of Agriculture and Social Transformation where his leadership helped shape transformative policies aimed at modernizing both sectors and most importantly promoting food security.
“He genuinely loved and cared for the staff,” a Ministry of Agriculture representative recalled in his tribute, praising his commitment to agricultural advancement and his efforts to support and uplift those he worked alongside.
Craig Thomas, National Specialist at the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture, remembered Baptiste as a champion of regional unity.
“His vision for agriculture extended beyond our shores. He understood the power of cooperation and was instrumental in pushing forward initiatives to strengthen food systems in Antigua and Barbuda and the region,” Thomas said.
Former United Progressive Party leader, Harold Lovell offered a stirring tribute, describing Baptiste as “one of the finest politicians Antigua has seen,” and commended his integrity, fearlessness, and passion for public service.
“Hilson ‘Brother B’ Baptiste was probably the realest politician I have had the privilege and pleasure to know and to work with, both at home here in Antigua and across the region. In Cabinet, he brought a sense of warmth, humour and generosity. One of his favourite jokes was teasing former Attorney General Justin Simon, reminding him that he climbed through the window to get there, so be careful. He was real, not perfect, but real, authentic and straightforward. You never had to guess where you stood with Brother B,” Lovell said.
But perhaps the most poignant moment came from his widow, Ithlaine Baptiste. Speaking with quiet strength, she offered a heartfelt reflection on the man she knew intimately — the husband, the father, the friend, the lawyer, the doctor, the chef, the hero.
“He had an exceptional relationship with staff wherever he worked. I can say without prejudice that Baptiste was the most caring, empathetic, committed and dedicated representative St Mary’s South ever had. He was called on for everything and he responded.
“I had to sometimes remind him that he was only one person. He was doctor, lawyer, counsellor, advisor, everything,” Ithlaine Baptiste said.
The sermon, delivered by Venerable Isaiah Phillip, echoed themes of loyalty and faith. Drawing from scripture, Phillip described Baptiste as a man who was unwavering in his principles. “Loyalty is a virtue not easily found,” he said. “But Brother B possessed it in abundance, steadfast in his beliefs, committed to his people, and faithful to his God.”
As solemn hymns filled the air, Baptiste’s casket was carried out of the cathedral — an emotional farewell to a man whose impact spanned politics, culture, and culinary arts. Known also as a charismatic chef and cultural icon, Brother B’s influence transcended traditional politics, leaving an indelible mark on national identity.
With more than three decades of service to Antigua and Barbuda, Hilson “Brother B” Baptiste is remembered not just for his public achievements, but for the kindness, humility, and unwavering loyalty that defined his life.
The late Honourable Hilson Nathaniel “Brother B” Baptiste served as Minister of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries and the Environment from 2009 to 2014, during which he significantly transformed the Ministry and the agricultural sector in Antigua and Barbuda.
His first initiative was the renovation of the Ministry’s headquarters, which improved working conditions and established a tradition of honouring past ministers. Under his leadership, the Ministry hosted its first staff awards banquet in 2010 and launched inclusive events for staff and their families.
Baptiste championed regional agricultural development, securing Antigua and Barbuda’s historic hosting of the 2012 Caribbean Week of Agriculture, and promoting youth engagement by including secondary school students in regional forums and facilitating their participation in a short course at the University of Guyana.
He spearheaded impactful initiatives such as the Buy Local campaign and the National Week of Agriculture, which featured exhibitions, symposiums, and community outreach. Baptiste also ensured the construction of the Barbuda Fisheries Complex and initiated the popular Urlings Seafood Fest. His leadership style earned him regional respect for being honest, direct, and results-driven, and his unwavering support for food security left a lasting policy legacy in the Caribbean agricultural landscape.
Beyond his professional achievements, “Brother B” was extremely loved for his warmth, humility, and genuine care for people.
He treated staff and their families as his own, fostering a familial atmosphere within the Ministry of Agriculture.
Known for listening with empathy and leading with respect, he inspired loyalty and admiration from colleagues across all levels.
Children of staff members remembered him fondly for his kindness and approachability. His leadership was never about power, but about connection, encouragement, and uplifting those around him.
He was also described as being gracious, and quietly powerful a man who brought compassion into every space he entered. To many, Brother B was not just a leader but he was also family, and his memory lives on in the lives he touched, the values he upheld, and the love he freely gave.
His legacy is a demonstration to the difference one person can make when they lead with heart. He is survived by his wife, children, extended family, and a grateful nation that now mourns the passing of one of its most cherished sons of the Antiguan soil.
Brother B was laid to rest at Our Lady of the Valley Anglican Church cemetery.
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