PASSING OF SIR ALBERT JOEL MILLER, FORMER DEPUTY COMMISSIONER OF POLICE, FORMER PRESIDENT & CO-CHAIRMAN OF THE GRAND BAHAMA PORT AUTHORITY AND ENTREPRENEUR EXTRAORDINAIRE
FREEPORT, GRAND BAHAMA ISLAND AUGUST 18, 2015 4:00 P.M.
Today is indeed a sad day in The Bahamas and particularly on the island of Grand Bahama, as we mourn the loss of renowned businessman, Sir Albert Joel Miller. Sir Albert Miller’s name has become synonymous with the Grand Bahama Port Authority where he served as President and co-Chairman for more than thirty years. However, many people are not aware that Sir Albert, as he was affectionately called, at the age of 89 leaves behind a legendary story and a remarkable legacy.
Sir Albert, formerly of Long Island, hailed from humble beginnings and eventually became one of The Bahamas’ most prominent and successful businessmen. His career journey started in the Royal Bahamas Police Force where he climbed through the ranks from detective corporal to deputy commissioner from 1943 to 1968. His impressive resume, although extensive, encompassed Director of the Solomon Brothers Ltd., Pepsi-Cola (Bahamas) Bottling Company Ltd., Grand Bahama Utilities Limited and the Freeport Oil Company. Additionally, he held the position of Chairman at The Grand Bahama Island Tourism Board, The Bahamas Electricity Corporation and The Bahamas Telecommunication Corporation.
However, it is my belief that of all Sir Albert’s accomplishments, he was most revered by the Bahamian people when he topped the Queen’s list of forty (40) Bahamians appreciated for their dedicated and outstanding contribution to the development of The Bahamas. They were each made a Knight Grand Cross of The Most Distinguished Order of Saint Michael and Saint George of The British Empire.
Sir Albert has indeed left an indelible mark on this nation and on the Grand Bahama economy, in particular.
Today, I stand with my parliamentary colleagues, extending condolences to his loving wife, Lady Laurie Miller and all of his children: Russell & Anthony Miller and Deborah Archer, who themselves, have become prominent, contributing members of society and will undoubtedly carry on their father’s legacy.
Sir Albert was truly an inspiration to Bahamians everywhere and will be sadly missed by many. It is our hope that this former deputy police commissioner turned astute businessman is resting in the arms of the Lord! May his soul and the souls of the dearly departed, rest in peace!
