Premier Michael Dunkley has extended his condolences to the family of Alpheus “Artie” Black who died earlier today.

Mr Black, a blacksmith, entrepreneur and pillar of the community, was awarded a Member of the Order of the British Empire in the 2005 Queen’s New Year Honours.

Premier Dunkley said of ‘Artie’, 89: “Artie Black truly made a difference in his community. For more than six decades Artie had served residents through various successful business endeavours, starting out as a blacksmith, and then ultimately opening a carpentry business and also an auto garage. ?He showed what determination and hard work could achieve.

?”He was a strong representative of his neighbourhood. He was passionate about helping young men advance in the trades, as well as encouraging economic empowerment within his community. He was also an accomplished entertainer and musician, and a testament to that fact was his induction into the Music Hall of Fame. He persevered throughout his life and made it his mission to provide a helping hand to those along the way.

“He was a legend in his own right and on behalf of the Government I wish to extend my condolences to his entire family for their loss.”

See the full obituary in tomorrow’s Royal Gazette.