Government of Jamaica mourns the passing of Stephen Francis

Sports Minister, the Honourable Olivia Grange says the Government of Jamaica joins family, friends and supporters of the late track and field coach and entrepreneur, Stephen Francis, in mourning his passing.

Minister Grange says:

“Stephen Francis is responsible for a large part of the pride and joy which Jamaicans feel when our athletes do well on the international stage. He was a unique person who used his talents to bring glory to our country and to improve the lives of countless athletes who benefitted from his guidance and tremendous expertise. Our country owes Stephen a debt of gratitude”.

Minister Grange says she is shocked at news of the passing of the iconic coach who also understood the business side of sports.

Minister Grange says part of Stephen Francis’ legacy is his commitment to contribute to improving the lives of multiple generations as he positioned his athletes to dominate on the global stage and also encouraged them to give back to their families, communities and Jamaica on a whole.

“Stephen was not merely an excellent coach. He played a pioneering role in the formation of the MVP Track Club. On behalf of the Government of Jamaica, I express heartfelt condolences to his brother, Paul, his friends and colleagues, including Bruce James and the entire team at MVP. We are deeply saddened at the passing of Stephen and celebrate his contribution to Jamaica”.

Stephen Francis died last night at age 64.

He had been battling illness.

In 2017, the government conferred the nation’s fourth-highest honour, the Order of Jamaica, on Mr Francis in recognition of his outstanding contribution to track and field through coaching, particularly for his work in building the MVP Track Club and guiding a host of Jamaicans to glory.