This week, Hands Across the Sea and the greater Eastern Caribbean lost a dear friend. Sir Robert Barrett, a visionary leader and devoted philanthropist, passed away on March 6, 2025. He leaves behind a legacy of generosity, community-building, and unwavering dedication to the people of Antigua and Barbuda and the Caribbean.
Sir Robert was more than just a successful hotelier—he was a man who believed in the power of opportunity, education, and human connection. Through his leadership in the tourism industry, he helped shape Antigua and Barbuda’s economy, creating jobs and fostering a sense of pride in the local community. His resorts—including The Verandah, Pineapple Beach Club, Hammock Cove, and St. James’s Club—weren’t just destinations for travelers; they were sources of livelihood for thousands of Antiguans and Barbudans over the past four decades. Sir Robert Barrett’s impact as a hotelier expanded across the Caribbean, and included an impressive portfolio of resorts not only in Antigua, but also in Panama, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Saint Lucia, and Barbados.
But it was his heart for people, especially the most vulnerable, that truly defined his impact. Sir Robert was deeply committed to supporting children, particularly those with special needs, ensuring they had access to the resources they needed to thrive. His generosity extended far beyond business—his investments in education and literacy, including his steadfast support of Hands Across the Sea, helped bring the joy of books and reading to countless children. In 2001, Sir Robert and Elite Island Resorts established the Wishing Well Foundation which continues on as a powerful vehicle for helping underprivileged children and adults throughout Antigua and the rest of the Caribbean.
“Sir Robert Barrett was deeply devoted to building his community. On any given day, you could meet someone whose life had been touched by him,” shared Amanda Sherlip, Executive Director of Hands Across the Sea. “His care and dedication to the personal development of individuals and the broader community were a true reflection of his generous spirit.
We were profoundly inspired by his commitment to serving vulnerable communities, especially children with special needs. Through his friendship and generosity, Hands Across the Sea has been able to bring the joy of new books, reading, and literacy support to thousands of children in Antigua and Barbuda.
Sir Robert Barrett helped build a better Antigua, and we are deeply grateful for the countless children and families he uplifted through his kindness and love.”
Leah Garratt, a close friend of Sir Robert and Board Chairperson of Hands Across the Sea, spoke of the profound ways Sir Robert changed lives:
“Because of Rob, so many lives were changed and saved. A friend called me from Antigua crying, remembering how he had helped her and her children. There are so many stories of his generosity and love for his employees and friends. He was a dear friend, and I was honored to collaborate with him over the years, working to provide care and support to the hundreds of lives he touched. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten.”
His commitment to Antigua and Barbuda was recognized at the highest level when he was knighted in 2023, a reflection of the immense gratitude and admiration felt by those he served so selflessly.
We at Hands Across the Sea were fortunate to call him a friend and partner in our mission. His generosity helped us establish and sustain school libraries across Antigua and Barbuda, ensuring that thousands of children not only had access to brand-new books but also welcoming spaces to read, learn, and dream. Through his support, we strengthened literacy programs, provided critical resources to students and teachers, and helped build a culture of reading that will continue to inspire generations to come.
Sir Robert Barrett’s passing is a tremendous loss, but his impact will endure through the lives he touched and the institutions he strengthened. His kindness, vision, and dedication to uplifting others will never be forgotten.
We send our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and the many who loved him. Today, we join thousands of friends throughout the world in recognizing and memorialzing Sir Robert Barrett. Rest in peace, dear friend. Your legacy lives on.
