Allan Cruickshank remembered as humble, generous, and a party stalwart

Former New Democratic Party (NDP) Parliamentarian, Allan Cruickshank is being remembered by one of his sons as a “very humble and generous family man”, and by the NDP as a “beloved party stalwart”.

Cruickshank died at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital on March 1, 2025 at age 73.

In a brief interview with SEARCHLIGHT, Allanson Cruickshank recalled his late father as also being “very jovial”.

The younger Cruickshank shared that last year his father and mother, Deborah Cruickshank, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary.

Allanson said his father had been ailing since around November, 2024, and was recently diagnosed with a terminal illness.

He said prior to falling ill in November, his father seemed fine and showed no symptoms of any ailment.

Allanson, an environmental consultant, said his father passed away around 4.15 a.m last Saturday.

Announcing the death in a Facebook post, Allanson wrote, “We give thanks for the life he lived, the majority of which was spent in service to the nation of St Vincent and the Grenadines”.

Cruickshank, entered elective politics at age 33, and represented the South Central Windward Constituency in Parliament from 1984 to 2001. He served in several capacities within the NDP administration, including as Minister of Health; and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Tourism and Information.

“Mr. Cruickshank’s transformative impact on South Central Windward remains a cornerstone of his legacy,” a release issued by the NDP on Cruickshank’s passing states.

“During his tenure, he constructed the Greiggs and New Grounds Primary Schools, providing quality education to countless children in the constituency. He built hard courts in San Souci, Lauders, Lowmans, and Greiggs, as well as playing fields in Lauders and North Union, fostering community development and youth engagement through sports. His commitment to improving living standards ensured that pipe-borne water was accessible to every home in his constituency. Additionally, he oversaw the construction of village roads throughout South Central Windward, connecting communities and enhancing accessibility for all. These achievements stand as a testament to his dedication to improving the lives of his constituents,” the party release also states.

Before entering politics, Cruickshank was a teacher and principal. Former teaching colleagues also have been expressing condolences on social media, and posting about his contribution as a member of the teaching profession and the nation on a whole.