A taxi driver who went above and beyond as a tourism representative for Bermuda has won commendation from the Ministry of Transport as a classic of his industry.

Quinton Bean, a former accountant, went on to become a “beloved taxi owner and a true ambassador of Bermuda’s hospitality industry”, the ministry said.

The subject of glowing online reviews posted by visitors who flocked to his touring service, Mr Bean was described in 2011 by one as “the most kind, caring individual and has a quite unique background”.

“He loves showing off his Bermuda and welcomes tourists with open arms.”

The review was a typical one for Mr Bean, whose deep knowledge of the island ranged from history to the natural world and the best places to take pictures.

An integral member of the old Bermuda Tourism Board, announced in 2010, Mr Bean had to step down a year later because of work commitments.

Saying he was deeply reluctant to leave the team, Mr Bean cited obligations to his clients.

Widely known as “QB”, Mr Bean was previously a go-to taxi tour operator for the former Bermuda Board of Tourism.

Former board member Anthony Santucci described Mr Bean, who lived on St Mary’s Road in Warwick, as “Warwick through and through, and a Cedar Hill friend”.

Mr Santucci added: “I’ve known him my entire life. Mr Bean was super, just an amazing man — he served on the Warwick Parish Council and was a Progressive Labour Party stalwart.”

Mr Bean’s father, the PLP senator Q. Charles Bean who died in 1989, was a trade unionist who was among the party’s founders.

Mr Santucci said: “Mr Bean was one of those people who could always give you solid advice.

“If you had a problem, he could help you fix it, or he could send you to the right person — and if you were the problem he didn’t hesitate, in his own benevolent way, to tell you. You knew that it was coming from such a good place.”

A 1970 article in The Royal Gazette described Mr Bean as a keen member of the Salvation Army Band and an accomplished organ player.

A graduate of the Ontario Business School, where he obtained his accountancy certificate, Mr Bean managed taxis in his retirement and threw himself into the touring business.

Wayne Furbert, the transport minister, said last week: “For decades, Mr. Bean embodied the spirit of Bermuda, sharing his love for the island with countless visitors.

“His gracious and welcoming demeanour left a lasting impression on all who had the pleasure of meeting him.

“As the quintessential taxi driver, he set a high standard of service within the industry, representing his profession with pride, professionalism and a personal touch.”

Mr Furbert highlighted the ambassador’s easy manner with people and added: “Mr Bean forged strong relationships with visitors, many of whom became repeat guests, drawn back to Bermuda by the warmth he displayed.

“His ability to connect not only with tourists but also with business leaders highlighted his exceptional rapport and dedication.

“Mr Bean was known for his generosity and willingness to support his fellow colleagues.

“He touched the lives of many and was always available to offer a helping hand.”

Mr Furbert said the veteran cabbie would be “deeply missed by all who knew him”.

He added: “The Ministry of Transport acknowledges the invaluable contributions Mr Bean made to Bermuda’s tourism and transport sectors and honours his legacy.”

• Quinton Bernell Bean, a taxi operator and tourism ambassador, was born on November 22, 1946. He died in October 2024, aged 77