The entire board, management, and staff of the Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM), was thrown into mourning with the passing of the company’s statistics manager, Henri Laurence, on Sunday.
"We are all devastated by this tragic news," said managing director, Regina LaBega who described Laurence as a "hard-working, dedicated and competent member of the management team."
Laurence began work as an accounts clerk at SXM Airport on December 1, 1986 at the age of 25 and within 10 years, worked his way up to Chief of Finance. He was the recipient of the Yearly Gratification Program under former PJIAE director, Hans Messelink. He was also acknowledged by drs. Eugene Holiday, former PJIAE president, for his special performance that enabled PJIAE to accomplish the important task of maintaining operations in the old facilities and preparing and ultimately starting operations in the new Terminal building.
Henri Laurence was a member of several PJIAE negotiating teams, committees and work groups and twice served as the company’s temporary replacement Manager of the Finance and Accounting Department.
"He was well-respected by his colleagues and remains a shining example of loyalty and commitment to the Princess Juliana International Airport, where he served with distinction for 27 years," said Clarence Derby, chairman of the Supervisory Board of Directors of PJIAE.
"On behalf of the board, I extend our sincere condolences to the family, friends and loved ones of Mr. Henri Laurence," he added.
Photo Caption:
The late Statistics Manager of SXM Airport, Henri Laurence, who passed away Sunday, August 25. (SXM photo)