Ralph Boyce, leader in education, men’s advocacy, mourned

Barbados on Friday bid farewell to Ralph Hallam Boyce, a towering figure in education, social reform, and community development. The former chief education officer and credit union pioneer died on March 18 at the age of 85, prompting tributes from across the island.

Family, friends, and dignitaries gathered at the Ann Gill Memorial Methodist Church in Black Rock, to celebrate the legacy of Boyce, who, after a life in public service, including a stint as permanent secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture, went on to lead Barbados’ first male-centred campaign organisation, the MESA (Men’s Educational Support Association).

Boyce was remembered as a man of immense intellect, humility, and deep devotion to both people and purpose.

A eulogy delivered at his funeral service painted the portrait of a life wholly committed to nation-building, family, and faith.

“Mr Boyce became great because he lived a life of service,” said his younger sister Marcia Graham in a stirring tribute. “His life was one of purpose, principle, and deep compassion.”

As an education officer—and later as chief education officer for 15 years—he spearheaded far-reaching reforms, including the textbook loan scheme, upgrades to teacher training, and the development of school infrastructure and social facilities.

He also promoted a culture of respect and negotiation with educators’ unions and was widely admired for his openness to diverse views—often shared informally over a drink.

“He believed in progress and partnership, and he lived what he believed. Higher education, access, and equity—those were his constant priorities.”

Beyond education, Boyce played a transformative role in the credit union movement. After working with cooperatives in Jamaica, he returned home to help develop the Barbados Public Workers Co-operative Credit Union Limited—then a fledgling organisation with only 50 members and $5 000 in assets. Today it boasts over 117 000 members and $1.8 billion in share capital—a testament to his vision and stewardship, Graham said.

As permanent secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture, Graham noted that Boyce worked not from behind a desk but in the fields—listening to farmers, promoting unionisation, and encouraging credit union membership.

Later, upon retiring from the civil service in 2000, he launched MESA (Men’s Educational Support Association), which focused on empowering Barbadian men through legal clinics, fatherhood workshops, prison ministry, and men’s health initiatives.

“His passion was rooted in justice, support, and redemption. Mr Boyce became great because his life was one of ministry and service to men.”

He also remained a committed man of faith—serving in various ministries at Holetown Methodist Church—leading the men’s fellowship and supporting outreach efforts through YMCA, BARP (Barbados Association of Retired Persons), and other social institutions.

In his family circle, Boyce was known as a lively storyteller during festive gatherings filled with warmth and humour—none more memorable than the “duck story” where an attempted culinary venture ended in a feathery escape and a good laugh.

(SZB)