Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit says the death of veteran businessman McMillan “Mr. Mac” Jno-Baptiste has created a major loss for Dominica’s private sector after almost seven decades of commercial activity.
John Baptiste died at his home on Cross Lane on Monday morning at the age of 90. He had been involved in business for approximately 69 years and was widely known as “Mr. Mac.”
Skerrit described him as an extraordinary Dominican who remained in the country, persevered through challenges and invested in several businesses while providing employment for people over many decades.
“I’d like to also extend my sincere condolences to the family of Mr McMillan John Baptiste. No doubt Mr John Baptiste was an extraordinary Dominican who stayed in Dominica, who persevered and was able to do a number of investments in the country and provide jobs for people over several decades,” the Prime Minister said.
He remembered John Baptiste as a quiet and humble businessman who contributed to national development without seeking public attention.
“A very quiet and humble man who went about doing his part in nation building, and so his passing will no doubt create a void in the business community in Dominica,” Skerrit said.
John Baptiste began his career in 1956 and later developed the Macmillan All-in-One Service Station in Castle Comfort. He also owned and managed several fuel and service facilities and became Dominica’s longest-serving petrol reseller.
The Prime Minister expressed hope that John Baptiste’s sons and other family members would continue the entrepreneurial work he began.
“We do hope that they will carry on his legacy of business spirit and innovation,” Skerrit stated, while extending sympathy to the businessman’s relatives, friends and associates.
The Dominica Association of Industry and Commerce has also described John Baptiste as a pioneer who served customers, employed community members and contributed to the national economy throughout his long career.
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