Shock as Observer photojournalist Michael Gordon dies

The journalism fraternity has been hard hit by the sudden passing of Observer photojournalist Michael Gordon

Gordon, who was 67, died at his St Andrew home today.

The award-winning media stalwart had been freelancing with the Beechwood Avenue-based newspaper since his retirement as head of the photography department in 2013.

He joined at its inception in 1993 after serving for several years at the Jamaica Information Service in a career that has spanned more than 45 years.

In 2016, Gordon was conferred with the Order of Distinction (Officer Class) for his contribution to the field of journalism.

"Michael’s passing has left us in shock at the Jamaica Observer," said Vernon Davidson, the Observer’s executive editor for publications.

Davidson said Gordon was still mourning the loss of his wife Angela who died just over a year ago.

"To me, he was more than a colleague, he was a true friend, someone I could always depend on to give a listening ear and support in tough times," Davidson said.

The Observer editor said, as a photojournalist, Gordon was exceptional at capturing many of Jamaica’s historic, best, and most challenging moments.

"It is not by accident that he was conferred with the Order of Distinction for his outstanding service to photojournalism in 2016," said Davidson.

Gordon is survived by two sons.

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