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The Independent
01-04-2025
- Sport
- The Independent
Usain Bolt's father dies aged 68 as tributes paid to ‘quiet force' behind Olympic legend
Usain Bolt 's father, Wellesley, has died at the age of 68, Jamaican media has reported. The father of three, who was an influential figure in Bolt's life, passed away on Monday in Jamaica after a long illness. He ran a grocery store alongside his wife Jennifer and maintained a low profile, but was instrumental in his son's now-legendary track career and his rise to an eight-time Olympic gold medallist. Jamaica's Prime Minister, Andrew Holness, was among those to pay tribute to Wellesley, writing on social media: 'I join with every Jamaican in extending my deepest and most sincere condolences to Usain Bolt, his beloved mother Mrs. Jennifer Bolt, and the entire Bolt family, following the passing of their patriarch, Mr. Wellesley Bolt. 'Mr. Bolt was the father of a global icon, and a strong, quiet force behind one of Jamaica's greatest sons. His presence, support, and guidance helped to shape a legacy that continues to inspire the world.' Olivia Grange, Jamaica's Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, also paid tribute. 'I offer my sincerest condolences to Jennifer, Usain, and the rest of the Bolt family,' she said. 'It is going to be a difficult time, but I encourage them to be comforted by the memory of a very good father.' Usain Bolt was said to be close to his father, who frequently cheered him on from the stands at races. Wellesley is survived by his wife Jennifer and three children, Usain, Sadiki, and Christine Bolt-Hylton. Usain has yet to comment publicly.
Gulf News
12-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf News
Cocoa Tea: Veteran Jamaican singer and songwriter dies at 65
Dubai: Jamaican reggae singer and songwriter veteran, Cocoa Tea, dies at 65 after suffering a cardiac arrest. Born Calvin George Scott, Cocoa Tea's death was confirmed by his wife Malvia Scott. According to Jamaican news outlet, The Gleaner, Cocoa Tea died in Broward, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on Tuesday, March 11. 'I got a call early this morning to say that he had been transferred from the facility to the hospital, which is like five minutes away, because he was vomiting. He was initially diagnosed with lymphoma in 2019, but for the last six months he was also struggling with pneumonia,' Malvia Scott informed The Gleaner. According to Malvia, Cocoa Tea was 'definitely very brave,' despite his health conditions. 'He was positive throughout it all. About three weeks ago when he was admitted in the hospital he asked if I was worried and said 'I am always worried.' He told me not to worry because everything was going to be all right. He was always very hopeful.' Known for hits such as I Lost My Sonia , Sweet Sweet Cocoa Tea and I Am The Toughest , the reggae icon last performed three years ago on a cruise. The Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport in Jamaica, Olivia Grange paid her condolences to the family. 'He has been a staple in the industry for so long. He is one of the greatest reggae singers who has ever lived and his work will stand the test of time. We salute him at this time… condolences to his family. It has been a pleasure working with him over these years and we are glad that we had the opportunity to give him some of (his) flowers while he was here with us. May his soul rest in peace,' Grange told The Gleaner. In 2008, Cocoa Tea had released a song titled Barack Obama , in support of the then-US presidential candidate. He is survived by his wife, Malvia Scott and eight children. Sign up for the Daily Briefing Get the latest news and updates straight to your inbox
