THE EDITOR, Sir:
THE NEWS of the untimely death of Jim Lim left my family and me in a state of disbelief for the past several days.
We met Jim shortly after he arrived in Jamaica in 1958. He joined Desnoes and Geddes as General Sales Manager and as assistant G.S.M we worked very closely together for several years. As colleagues in business, I was the beneficiary of his many fine examples. Very early in his period of stewardship, it became clear that he had the ability to deal with people at all levels, with an unusual ease. His manner in conversation on any subject, immediately made people with whom he interacted, feel a sense of ease.
Although I left Jamaica in 1975, I had been in touch with Jim on many occasions. Each time we met, it gave us an opportunity to reflect on several memorable events. It was always fun to recall the many successes we had at D&G, as the company expanded through the years. Without doubt, Jim played a very significant role in this growth and development.
Jim Lim made Jamaica his home, and in the process, developed many friendships, in business as well as socially. Knowing the man as I did, I know that anyone with whom he came in contact, will feel an immense sense of loss at his passing.
In many ways, he was unusually genuine, gentle and just a fine human being. He exuded the highest order of integrity as well as the characteristics of a fine gentleman.
Since his passing this past Sunday, I have had several calls from friends and business associates who have all expressed profound sadness on receiving the sad news. Without exception, they saw Jim Lim as a giant of a man, with qualities that are rarely encountered these days.
To Jennifer, his wife, and his daughters and their extended families, my own family joins in sending our deepest sympathy.
Jamaica has lost an outstanding adopted son.
I am etc.,
DUDLEY DELAPENHA
ddela@shaw.ca
Surrey, British Columbia
Canada
Via Go-Jamaica
