Ambassador Lorne McDonnough has died

Ambassador Lorne T. McDonnough, CD, a distinguished diplomat who dedicated his life to the service of Jamaica and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), has died.

“Ambassador McDonnough passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones,” the family said in a statement today.

Ambassador McDonnough's diplomatic career spanned several decades, marked by significant contributions to regional integration, trade negotiations, and economic development.

He was appointed the first Chief Executive Officer of the CARICOM Development Fund (CDF) on November 3, 2008, and led the CDF from its start-up phase to a fully operational CARICOM Treaty-based organisation.

He guided the CDF as it implemented Country Assistance Programmes (CAPs) across eight beneficiary member states, with commitments totalling almost $50 million. These assistance programmes helped to reduce regional disparities, enhance competitiveness, and drive investment across the Caribbean.

Before his tenure at the CDF, Ambassador McDonnough served Jamaica in various capacities, including High Commissioner to Trinidad & Tobago, Barbados, the Eastern Caribbean States, and Ambassador to Suriname.

His diplomatic postings also included serving as Jamaica's Permanent Representative to the Association of Caribbean States (ACS) and Deputy Permanent Representative in Jamaica's Mission to the Organization of American States (OAS).

In 1994, the OAS Secretary General appointed McDonnough interim Executive Secretary of the Inter-American Council for Economic and Social Affairs. Later, he became the first Director of the Inter-Sectoral Unit for Tourism. His leadership in these roles was instrumental in shaping economic and social development across the Americas.

Ambassador McDonnough's legacy is an unwavering dedication to the Caribbean. In him, one found an unfaltering advocate for regional cooperation for progress, prosperity and the upliftment of the Caribbean people.

His efforts were recognised in 2011 when the Jamaican Government conferred the Order of Distinction (Commander Class) for his distinguished service in regional and hemispheric affairs.

On retirement from his outstanding diplomatic career, Ambassador McDonnough found joy in real estate where he worked alongside his daughter Kaili Scott at Coldwell Banker.

Ambassador McDonnough held a M.A. degree in International Relations from the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University, an MBA in International Business from Long Island University, and a BBA from Pace University. His academic and career achievements were a testament to his commitment to excellence and service.

Ambassador McDonnough is survived by his beloved wife, Michelle Gyles McDonnough; his children, Kaili Scott, Lyndsey McDonnough, Sydney McDonnough, and Liam McDonnough; and his sister, Grace Lyon. He is also survived by his foster daughter, Camille Patterson.

“The family remains immensely proud of his contributions and the legacy he leaves behind,” the McDonnough family said.

Funeral arrangements will be announced at a later date.

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