Jones P. Madeira, a distinguished journalist and communications professional from Trinidad and Tobago, passed away on January 10 at the Mount Hope Medical Complex.
He was 80 years old and had been hospitalized for a week following prolonged health challenges.
In a statement, Madeira’s family expressed gratitude to the staff at Mount Hope for their compassionate care during his final days. He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Melba, his daughters Melanie and Lorilee, and his son Justin.
Born in Arima, Madeira’s journalistic career spanned decades, marked by significant contributions to Caribbean media and public communication. Affectionately known as “Jones P.,” Madeira’s defining moment came during the 1990 Jamaat al Muslimeen coup attempt, when insurgents led by Imam Yasin Abu Bakr held him hostage at Trinidad and Tobago Television (TTT). Despite his captivity, Madeira facilitated critical communication between the insurgents and the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force, averting further bloodshed. This role earned him the prestigious Chaconia Gold Medal, the nation’s second-highest honor, and an Honorary Doctor of Letters from the University of Trinidad and Tobago.
Madeira’s career began in the early 1960s as a young reporter. He later worked with the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) Caribbean Service in London, gaining experience that shaped his influential career in regional media. Over the years, Madeira held key positions at institutions such as the Caribbean Broadcasting Union, the Caricom Secretariat, and the Trinidad Broadcasting Network. He also served as Head of News and Current Affairs at TTT during the 1980s and was Editor-in-Chief at both the Trinidad Guardian and Trinidad Newsday.
Beyond journalism, Madeira dedicated himself to public communication. He served as Communications Director at the Caribbean Epidemiology Centre (CAREC), where he spearheaded regional efforts to combat the spread of HIV/AIDS. He also worked as Communications Manager for the Trinidad and Tobago Judiciary and the Ministry of Health.
Throughout his career, Madeira mentored generations of journalists, leaving an indelible mark on Trinidad and Tobago’s media landscape. His legacy as a storyteller, crisis communicator, and advocate for regional unity will endure as an inspiration for future media professionals.
