It is with deep sorrow and profound respect that the Kingston College Old Boys Association (KCOBA) mourns the passing of Errol Franklyn "Jiggs" Ennis, a remarkable Fortis whose life was a model of resilience, leadership, and service to his country. A trailblazing parliamentarian, a pioneering economist, a stalwart Fortis, and a champion for the people of Jamaica, Errol Ennis embodied the very best of the Kingston College spirit.
Errol's journey with Kingston College began on Monday, January 4, 1954, when he entered the school from Windward Road Government School, later known as Windward Road Primary School. Registered as Student No. 1847, young Ennis quickly distinguished himself through his competence in both academics and sports. A true Fortis in every sense, he represented Kingston College proudly on the football field in the Manning Cup competition and was dominant in the field events in track and field athletics, winning the Class One Shot Put at Boys' Championships in both 1959 and 1960. In 1960, he set a new record in the Shot Put, a symbol of his strength, focus, and competitive spirit-qualities that would define his life thereafter.
Upon leaving Kingston College in 1960, Errol charted an ambitious course abroad, joining the Royal Air Force (RAF) in the United Kingdom, before pursuing studies in Economics at the University of Reading. He later undertook further academic development at the prestigious Economic Development Institute of the World Bank. Throughout his journey, he remained deeply rooted in the Fortis ideals of discipline, courage, and service to others.
Errol's professional life was marked by significant achievements. As Vice-President of the Jamaica Development Bank, he played a key role in the nation's economic development, helping to stimulate growth and opportunity, especially in rural Jamaica. His entrepreneurial spirit later led him to co-found a management consultancy firm with distinguished partners Pat Francis, Bill Eaton and his younger brother Michael Ennis, before he made a fateful decision to move to Portland to farm-a bold move at a time when many were fleeing Jamaica's shores. In Portland, he found not only fertile land but also his true calling in public service.
In 1989, Errol "Jiggs" Ennis defied political expectations by capturing the traditionally Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) stronghold of Portland Western for the People's National Party (PNP). He would go on to win re-election three more times, serving until 2007. His time in Parliament was marked by a commitment to education, community development, and social upliftment. His most cherished achievement was seeing over 400 students from West Portland move from primary school to university education, becoming lawyers, doctors, nurses, educators, and entrepreneurs. He personally mentored many, always believing that education was the true key to empowerment.
As Minister of State for Finance and Planning under Prime Ministers Michael Manley and P.J. Patterson, and later Minister of State for Agriculture under Prime Minister Portia Simpson-Miller, Errol contributed significantly to national development. Notably, he chaired the parliamentary committee that successfully piloted the landmark General Consumption Tax (GCT) reform bill, a testament to his sharp economic mind and his commitment to good governance.
Even after glaucoma, compounded by diabetes, took his sight, Errol's spirit remained unbowed. Far from retreating into the shadows, he remained active in politics, community affairs, agriculture, and broadcasting, hosting a music show on Styles FM in Portland. He was a passionate advocate for political reform and good governance, calling for a new civic movement to demand better from Jamaica's leadership. His rallying cry for integrity, accountability, and service over partisanship remains as relevant today as ever.
In the Fortis community, Errol's contributions were equally profound. He served as President of the Kingston College Old Boys' Association from 1976 to 1980 and Vice-President thereafter (1980-'82). His leadership helped strengthen the bonds among Fortis men during a critical period in Jamaica's history. Not content merely with titles, he actively provided boarding and mentorship to KC students, ensuring that the next generation had the support needed to excel. Fortis Cadere Cedere Non Potest-The Brave May Fall But Never Yield-was not just the school motto for Errol Ennis; it was the way he lived every day.
Errol was a family man, proud of his wife Sandra and his five children. He made sure that the Fortis tradition continued, with his two son Brent and D'Angelo attending Kingston. His life was rich with music, friendship, and laughter, as reflected in his close, lifelong friendships that crossed political lines-proof of his warm personality and deep humanity.
His passing at the age of 83 leaves a void not only in the Kingston College fraternity but across Jamaica. We have lost a true son of Fortis, a patriot, a mentor, and a servant leader. Yet, we find solace in the knowledge that his life was one of great purpose and achievement.
On behalf of the Kingston College Old Boys Association, we extend our deepest condolences to the Ennis family, his friends, colleagues, and all who mourn his loss. We celebrate a life that has set a sterling example for generations to come-a life that has truly honoured Kingston College and the nation it serves.
Sleep well, Brother Jiggs!
Your vision, though dimmed in your latter years, was always clear when it came to what truly matters. Your life's work shines bright in the Fortis firmament.
Fortis forever! Forever Fortis!
Patrick S. Dallas
Former President, Kingston College Old Boys Association (KCOBA)
April 28, 2025