Nedburn Thaffe, Gleaner Writer

Family members and well-wishers of the late NEM Insurance Company chairman, George Magnus, gathered at a thanksgiving service on the grounds of the St Mary's Parish Church in Port Maria on Saturday to bid farewell to a man some described as a pioneer in Jamaica's insurance industry.

Among those present at the service were general manager of Jamaica National Building Society (JNBS), Earl Jarrett, NEM staff members and Prime Minister Bruce Golding.

Magnus was deputy chairman at JNBS and also served as senior partner in the legal firm Abendana and Abendana. He was celebrated for the sterling services he rendered while in these capacities.

Easy-going and insightful

Magnus was described by Jarrett as an easy-going and insightful individual who served well in his capacity as deputy chairman of JNBS. Jarrett added that Magnus steered the organisation through turbulent times in the 1980s when it was hit with economic instability.

"Through the building of strategic alliances, he was able to assist JNBS to weather these decades," Jarrett said.

Chris Hinds, of NEM, in his tribute said the company was particularly grateful for the defining role he played in its development while describing him as a chairman who ensured that the company aspired to excellence and integrity.

Interment for the late George Ivanhoe Magnus later followed in the St Mary Parish churchyard and was attended by more than 800 mourners.

Magnus is survived by his wife, Carol, and children Christopher, Patrick and Yolande.