Named as a “Former Legislator and Father of the House”, Mr. Thomas William Farrington, CBE, JP (1900 to 1978) was a great contributor to the Cayman Islands community.

Early life and education

Born on 25 June 1900 to William Farrington and Elizabeth Melencia Parsons of West Bay, Cayman Islands. He became one of Cayman’s most outstanding citizens. He was a man of wisdom, persuasiveness and sincerity, especially in matters involving his beloved district of West Bay.

Career

“Mr. Willie” as he was commonly known, exemplified what Caymanians represent. He became a civil servant in 1921, and until today he remains the longest-serving representative in the Legislative Assembly, having held his seat for 55 years. Mr. Willie was also the first elected member to be responsible for finance.

During the 1940s, he supported the establishment of what is today the John Gray High School. In 1959, he was among the first to be elected to the Executive Council after the first constitution was signed and in 1965, he became the first Caymanian to be honoured by Queen Elizabeth II as a Commander of the British Empire.

As a pioneer in the Cayman Islands Government, Mr. Willie led the House in legislation matters and was a founding member of the Christian Democratic Party. He was named ‘Father of the House’ both for his lengthy continuous service and for the wisdom and insight he displayed in matters of public interest. He was also a founding member of Cayman International Airways and played a major role in the development of Cayman’s first airport and in discussions regarding Cayman’s participation in the West Indies Federation.

His name was heard and known in every corner of the Islands because in the truest sense, he was a proud Caymanian, one who played a major role in crafting the Islands into the success it is today. For his accomplishments as a husband, father, Justice of the Peace, Law Agent, church elder and civic leader, he will always be honoured.

Personal life

He married Vivian Myrtle Ebanks, daughter of Hubert Lee Ebanks and Hannah Arabella Henning. They were the parents of five - Owen, LAwrence, Myrtle, Grace, and William.

Death

Mr. Willie died on 13 May 1978, aged 77. He was predeceased by his wife Vivian Myrtle Ebanks, who died in 1972.