A revered orator, scholar, and politician, Dr. John served the constituency of Laborie from 1992 to 2006 for the Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP), and his contributions to national life have left an indelible mark on the island’s political and cultural landscape.

On the weekend, Deputy Political Leader of the SLP and Acting Prime Minister, Dr. Ernest Hilaire, paid tribute to the late statesman, calling him “a stalwart of the Saint Lucia Labour Party.”

“Velon John served Laborie and the Labour Party with distinction, first in the Senate and then as an elected MP. He even served as Leader of the Opposition up to May 1997. His commitment to his ministry and his work was unwavering. He helped define the very personality of the Labour Party,” he said.

Dr. Hilaire also extended heartfelt condolences to Dr. John’s family and the people of Laborie on behalf of the SLP and Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre, who is currently out of state.

“We will always remember him for his immense contribution to the Labour Party and to Saint Lucia,” Hilaire added.

Dr. John, known for his commanding mastery of the English language and his powerful public addresses, most recently appeared in public in April 2025 to launch what he called his final literary work, Ramblings of a Mind and Pulsations of a Heart. The publication, which delves into themes of love and personal reflection, was hailed as a poignant farewell from a man who had long made peace with his life's journey.

Born in Laborie on April 19, 1942, Dr. John dedicated his life to the service of Saint Lucia as a senator, parliamentarian, minister, and social activist. He was an outspoken nationalist, often calling for Saint Lucia’s full independence from the British monarchy and urging his compatriots to deepen their love for country.