Western Mirror reporter Volney Barrett dies

The journalism fraternity is mourning the sudden passing of Western Mirror reporter Volney Barrett.

Barrett, 32, died at his Montego Bay, St James home this morning, after complaining of severe pain he started experiencing following his regular dialysis treatment.

"I am not exactly sure about my feelings right now,” said a visibly shaken Janet Silvera, president of the Western Jamaica Media Association and also friend of Barrett. 

"It was only a few days ago when he told me about a frightening incident where gunmen unsuccessfully tried to hold up and rob a taxi in which he was a passenger. He was so grateful to have survived the ordeal that he took a solemn promise not to leave his house without praying. That conversation seems so surreal right now I am really having a hard time dealing with this."

Silvera remembered Barrett from their days at the University of the West Indies where he studied Integrated Marketing Communications, describing him as a very hard worker who was very family-oriented.

"He remained involved with the institution, and up to a few days ago was planning a recital at the school for the popular artistic group ASHE,” Silvera added.

He was a member of the King’s Chapel Pentecostal Church, where he taught bible quiz.

Barrett suffered kidney failure about two years ago and spent time in and out of the hospital.

Publisher of the Western Mirror Lloyd B Smith said Barrett started working with the newspaper after graduating from Cornwall College at age 17. 

"Volney was an integral part of the Western Mirror where he began his career in journalism," Smith said.

He was a very diligent and competent member of staff who was loved by his colleagues and friends. He will be sorely missed."

He is survived by his mother Leonie.

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