1926 — 2024
Sir Leton Thomas was the first principal of the Sir Arthur Lewis Community College, from 1987 to 1995. The hallmarks of his tenure include the establishment of the College's Vieux Fort campus, the procurement of scholarships for aspiring teachers, and the delivery of programmes tailored specifically to lifelong learners.
Sir Leton's principalship was preceded by 50 years of distinguished public service, during which he fulfilled the roles of educator, teacher trainer and school inspector.
Most notably, Sir Leton served as the Chief Education Officer and Permanent Secretary within the Ministry of Education and Culture. During this time, he spearheaded the deployment of secondary schools across Saint Lucia, thereby enriching the educational sector and ensuring school access among children and teenagers island-wide. He also pioneered the adoption of innovative teaching practices alongside his wife, Lady Marjorie Thomas.
Sir Leton Thomas is considered a model citizen and devout patriot, whose love for Saint Lucia will inspire its people for generations to come.
"Sir Leton drew on his rich and varied experience to craft the foundation that continues to support The Sir Arthur Lewis Community College in its expansion of teacher training and academic programmes.
We pray that the Good Lord will grant his soul peaceful and eternal rest, and that perpetual light will shine upon him."
Sir Leton's indelible contribution to the college cannot be ignored. I remember in 1995 when Kendel Hippolyte decided to lead a contingent from SALCC to Carifesta.
He had no idea how we would raise the funds required, but Mr. Thomas confidently remarked that he would get the funds from somewhere; he insisted that we concentrate on perfecting our craft and leave the financial worries to him.
That year we hit it out of the park in Trinidad. We had no choice but to perform. His blatant support for the Arts made a major difference. I never forgot that feeling.
By all accounts Mr. Thomas was a noble and humble icon. Heartfelt condolences and prayers extended to his family; May his soul rest in perpetual peace.
Condolences to Sir Leton's blood relatives, as well as his SALCC family who remember him.
I share the sentiments of my colleagues in recognizing his contribution and sharing his legacy.
May his soul rest in peace.
Dolores Menald
May he rest in peace. Sir Leton was a great principal! I met him when I first started working at SALCC.
Even after retiring, he continued to support our students through his generous graduation prizes, awarded each year to the top CAPE student.
He will be remembered.
Debora Dolor
Condolences to the family and friends of Sir Leton Thomas. What a purposeful life he lived, contributing to both education and the arts!
Our National Anthem stands head and shoulders over many, and his impact on our education system will be felt for generations to come.
May he rest in peace.
Milissa Emmanuel
The funeral service for Sir Leton Felix Thomas can be viewed below.
