Desiree John, the widow of Dominica's first prime minister, Patrick John, has died at the Dominica-Friendship Hospital in Roseau. She was 78 years old.
The cause of death has not been disclosed. Family members confirmed she passed away in the early hours of Tuesday morning.
Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit paid tribute to the family on Tuesday, expressing condolences to the relatives of the late Desiree John. The Prime Minister's message recognised the family's loss and the place the John family holds in the country's political history.
Patrick John served as Dominica's first prime minister, leading the island in the years following the attainment of Associated Statehood in 1967 and through the early period of nationhood. He remained a significant figure in Dominica's modern political story, and his wife Desiree stood beside him through those formative years.
The death has drawn condolences from across the island, with Dominicans at home and in the diaspora recalling the family's contribution to public life. The John family has long been associated with the Roseau area and with the early years of the country's parliamentary democracy.
Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced. The family has requested privacy during this period of mourning.
Desiree John is survived by relatives and loved ones who have asked for the public's understanding as they grieve. Further details on memorial services are expected to be released in the coming days.