ST. JOHN’S, Antigua and Barbuda – 14th August 2025 – The Offices of the Financial Secretary and the Budget Office within the Ministry of Finance will close today, Thursday, to allow employees to attend the funeral service of 24 year-old Jhavarcy Dorryl Tonge, son of Budget Director Carolyn Charles-Tonge.
The Ministry of Works, where Jhavarcy was last employed, will also close its Headquarters for the morning to allow staff members to be present at the service and pay their respects.
Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, the Hon. Gaston Browne, and Minister for Works, the Hon. Maria Browne, who are both off island, have expressed their deep regret at being unable to attend the funeral in person. They extended their heartfelt sympathies and words of comfort to Mrs. Carolyn Charles-Tonge and her family during this period of mourning.
Both Prime Minister Browne and Minister Maria Browne noted that family, friends, and work colleagues have spoken warmly of Jhavarcy, sharing how deeply saddened they are by his passing and describing him as a wonderful individual and a dedicated worker who will be greatly missed.
“We are truly saddened that we cannot be there in person to share in this moment of remembrance and support,” Prime Minister Browne and Minister Maria Browne said. “We pray that God will comfort Carolyn and her family during this time of sadness, and may they find peace and strength in the love and memories they hold of Jhavarcy.”
The Funeral Service for Jhavarcy Dorryl Tonge will be held today, Thursday at the Ebenezer Methodist Church in St. John commencing at 11 a.m.
