Desiree John, wife of Dominica’s first Prime Minister Patrick John, died at 78. PM Roosevelt Skerrit paid tribute in Parliament.
Dominica: Desiree John, the wife of the late Patrick John, Dominica's First Prime Minister, has died at the age of 78 on Tuesday, September 22, 2026. Desiree John passed away while she was in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the Dominica China Friendship Hospital (DCFH) shortly after 01:00 a.m.
During the pivotal years leading up to Dominica’s independence, Desiree remained a steadfast source of support to the late Patrick John as the country moved toward political independence in 1978.
Her oldest son, Nayree John, described her as a loving and compassionate woman who dedicated her life to serving others.
My mother was the type of person that would do anything for anyone—loving, compassionate, kind and friendly. She was the type of person who would feed the hungry and clothe the naked. I love her and the love I have for her will continue until the end of time, Nayree John stated.
Speaking in Parliament during the Second Meeting of the Fourth Session, Prime Minister Dr. Roosevelt Skerrit, extended his condolences to Desiree John's family and loved ones on behalf of the Government of Dominica.
I rise to first of all extend, on behalf of the Government and the entire Parliament, our heartfelt condolences to the family of Mrs. Desiree John, the wife of our former Prime Minister of Dominica, Honourable Patrick John. I want to extend to the entire family, the children, siblings, especially Thomas Kentish and the Kentish family for their service to Dominica, expressed the Prime Minister.
Skerrit recognised her immense impact on the nation, stating that although she never held public office, being the wife of the Prime Minister was a great service to which she remained steadfast.
"Even if she did not hold any public office, but by virtue of being the wife of a Prime Minister, that in itself is a serious responsibility and during very difficult periods of our country history, she stood steadfast in the service of Dominica and we're very grateful for her service," Skerrit acknowledged.
Moreover, Prime Minister Skerrit has called for new legislation to formally provide benefits to the widows of deceased Prime Ministers.