POLITICAL colleagues from the Government and Opposition joined in an outpouring of grief at the tragic death of Lisa Morris-Julian, Minister in the Ministry of Education and MP for D’Abadie/O’Meara after her tragic death in a house fire at her Arima home in the early hours of December 16. Two her children also perished – Jesiah Julian, six, and Xianne Jacqueline Julian, 25, while her husband and son-in-law were hospitalised.
Her immediate colleague Education Minister Dr Nyan Gadsby-Dolly was at the scene with her head bowed in grief. In a brief Facebook post, she said, “Not too sure how to process today. Thanks for the prayers and support. Sorry if I don’t respond immediately. Today is too much.”
The Prime Minister posted a personal tribute on Facebook, after an earlier tribute from the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM), titled, On the Tragic Passing of Minister Lisa Morris-Julian. Dr Rowley lamented, “My family and I are devastated at the awful tragedy that took the lives of Lisa and her children.”
Extending his deepest condolences to the entire Morris-Julian clan, he joined Arima and the national community in coming to grips with this shocking reality that “we have lost more than we think we can bear.” He related, “Lisa was family to all of us, humble and caring.
“Only just over 24 hours ago she and her husband shared the Christmas spirit with a wide cross section of the national community who attended our annual Christmas celebration.
“To have her and her children snatched away under such horrible circumstances makes today one of the saddest days of my life.”
Rowley said the PNM has lost one of its finest representatives.
“On behalf of our members and supporters I extend condolences from an organisation in shock and tears.
“We will support each other and be there to provide the family with what it takes to help them make it through the difficult days ahead.”
Opposition Leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar in a personal post on Facebook said, “The nation awoke to the horrific news of the tragic passing of MP Lisa Morris-Julian and her two relatives earlier this morning. As a colleague and as a Trinbagonian, I join with the national community in offering my prayers and condolences to the family and friends of Lisa and her relatives.
“It is my sincere wish that all those whose lives were touched by Lisa and her relatives find comfort and strength at this most difficult time.”
Planning Minister Pennelope Beckles said, “Words cannot express the depth of sadness and devastation that I feel at this moment.”
She said Morris-Julian’s death was a profound tragedy for her family, the people of D’Abadie/O’Meara, the people of Arima, and the nation.
“Lisa was more than a colleague; she was a shining light of hope, strength, and service.”
Saying Morris-Julian was a true patriot and a remarkable daughter of TT, Beckles said hailed her life of tireless dedication to her community, family, and beloved country.
“I first met Lisa many years ago when she was a young teacher, full of enthusiasm and an unwav
