Tributes have been paid to a respected microbiologist who capped off a distinguished career by becoming the hospital’s Chief of Pathology.

Clyde Wilson was responsible for all laboratory services at King Edward VII Memorial Hospital, and took a lead in setting up early Covid-19 testing at the facility after the virus struck in 2020.

Born in Trinidad, Dr Wilson came to Bermuda as a child. He was raised on Cobbs Hill Road and attended Warwick Academy before he moved to Britain to begin his medical studies.

He earned a degree in microbiology from the University of London in 1982, and went on to gain his doctorate in 1987.

Dr Wilson spent the next 17 years in London, becoming a senior research fellow in the Infection and Immunity Department of his university, focusing on the role of infection in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases.

In 2004, he returned home to work as a consultant microbiologist with the Bermuda Hospitals Board.

Two years later, he was appointed as the Director of Undergraduate Development at the hospital and was promoted to Chief of Pathology in 2014.

Describing his work in 2021, in the wake of the Covid virus, Dr Wilson said: “I would like to thank and congratulate the pathology staff who work tirelessly every day to meet the highest standards to ensure our tests are accurate and timely.

“Through the year we have had to adapt constantly to the changing restrictions of the pandemic as the surges have come and gone and included new testing for Covid-19.

“We undertake about 3.5 million tests a year in the lab, but every one is significant to the individual patient, and at the heart of accreditation is our focus on patient care, doing the best we can for the people who need answers about their health.”

In a tribute to Dr Wilson, R. Scott Pearman, the BHB’s chief executive, said: “As BHB’s Chief of Pathology, he led and developed services and staff for a decade, as well as taking a lead in setting up early testing for Covid-19 for all admissions and staff.

“Our early ability to test all incoming BHB admissions meant we could identify infections early and ensure precautions were in place to keep others safe. This no doubt saved many lives.

“He was also a passionate supporter and advocate for young Bermudian scientists and healthcare professionals.

“He has been a mentor to many, which means his legacy in healthcare services will be with us for many decades to come.

“We are grieving as his BHB family and will find ways to continue cherishing his memory.”

Alicia Stovell-Washington, the board’s Chief of Surgery, described her colleague as “a remarkable person”.

She said: “He touched many lives with his kindness, generosity and commitment to BHB.

“Clyde was dedicated to Bermuda’s future through his involvement with and development of summer medical students.

“His legacy of commitment and compassion will live on in all of us.”

Dr Wilson was a highly accomplished author and co-author of more than 50 peer-reviewed scientific publications in international journals.

He was also a contributor to six textbooks on the role of micro-organisms as trigger factors of autoimmune diseases.

Dr Wilson was deeply respected for his intellect and “beautiful mind”. But colleagues and friends also recognised his compassion, humour, calm and sense of fun.

At Dr Wilson’s funeral service, fellow pathologist Takawira Mubako said his colleague left a legacy of kindness, generosity, and co-operation.

Dr Mubako said: “Despite his high intellect he was able to distil ideas down to a level I could understand.

“I found him to be a man with exemplary manners, a calm and reassuring presence and an unwavering positive outlook.

“He approached every situation with a measured and thoughtful demeanour, ensuring that his words and actions never caused offence but instead fostered harmony and understanding.”

The sentiments were echoed by Kerry-Ann Longmore-Bailey, a medical technician who worked under Dr Wilson.

She said: “He had utmost respect for the laboratory staff and willingly served his profession with compassion and a genuine love for people.

“Though he was a learned stately man, Dr Wilson was relatable to all people regardless of class or creed.

“He would often have his lunch with us in our conference room where he would engage us in conversations that were thought-provoking, educational and most often very humorous. Dr Wilson loved to laugh.

“Dr Wilson was a kind soul, selfless and thoughtful. He was the epitome of kindness, loyalty, integrity and honesty.”

• Clyde Donald Dyett Wilson, Chief of Pathology at the Bermuda Hospitals Board, was born on April 20, 1954. He died on June 15, 2024, aged 70