The Voice- Community mourns ‘trailblazer’ Baroness Ros Howells
Community mourns ‘trailblazer’ Baroness Ros Howells
MOVING TRIBUTES have poured in from across Britain’s Black community following the death of retired Baroness Ros Howells of St David’s, who passed away this week at the age of 94.
The pioneering peer, who was born in Grenada in 1931 and settled in Britain at the age of 20, leaves behind a towering legacy of activism, community service and leadership that spanned more than six decades.
From her tireless work on race relations to her support for the families of Stephen Lawrence and the victims of the New Cross Fire, Baroness Howells was hailed as a “true champion for equality and justice” and a “quiet storm in the heart of our struggle.”
Baroness Howells’ grace, wisdom and kindness made her a beloved figure across Britain’s Black community
Her death marks the loss of one of the most influential figures of Britain’s post-Windrush generation — a woman who used her position in power to fight for those whose voices too often went unheard.
A life of service
Baroness Howells’ journey began in the parish of St David’s, Grenada, from which she later took her peerage title when she was made a life peer in 1999 by then prime minister Tony Blair.
After arriving in Britain, she trained and studied at St Joseph’s Convent in London, South West London College, and City College, before dedicating her life to social justice and community activism.
Her early career saw her take up leadership roles in grassroots organisations across London.
As director of Greenwich Council for Racial Equality, she championed the rights of Black Britons during a period of heightened racial tension.
She also worked closely with families seeking justice for victims of racist murders — including Roland Adams and Stephen Lawrence — and was later appointed a trustee of the Stephen Lawrence Charitable Trust.
In recognition of her tireless work, Baroness Howells was awarded an OBE in 1993 for her contribution to race equality policies and community development across Britain.
She went on to make history as the first Black woman to sit on the Greater London Council’s Training Board, the first female member of the Court of Governors of the University of Greenwich, and Vice Chair at the London Voluntary Services Council.
Her achievements culminated in her appointment to the House of Lords, where she became a respected voice on issues affecting Black and Caribbean communities, particularly healthcare for Black elders and pension inequality for Caribbean migrants.
A true champion of equality
News of her passing prompted an outpouring of tributes from leaders, campaigners, and community members who remembered her warmth, strength, and unshakeable commitment to justice.
Labour Mayor of Lewisham, Brenda Dacres OBE, wrote: “Saddened to hear of the passing of Baroness Howells of St Davids OBE. A true champion for equality and justice.
“The first Black woman on the GLC Training Board, former Chancellor of the University of Bedfordshire and lifelong advocate for race equality. My thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends.”
Patrick Vernon OBE, Windrush campaigner and social commentator, reshared a video tribute he made two years ago, reflecting on her influence.
“She had this demeanour of that generation — when she summoned you, you had to listen. She encouraged me to get involved in politics and later I became a councillor in Hackney.
“When she became a peer, she lobbied on healthcare for Black elders and on frozen pensions for Caribbean elders — issues still relevant today. She had compassion, she had this statesman-like, diplomatic quality.”
Lee Jasper, social justice advocate, described her as: “A woman of deep grace and unshakeable courage, the quiet storm in the heart of our struggle. When the world raged, she brought calm.
“Her contribution to racial justice cannot be overstated. Though her style was measured and her words delivered with grace, make no mistake — Baroness Howells was a real and effective Black freedom fighter.”
He added: “She battled in the corridors of power where genteel English manners often masked the most brutal form of political combat. She navigated that world with the calm precision of a diplomat and the moral courage of a revolutionary. She was both steel and sanctuary.”
Loved and respected across generations
Tributes have come from every corner of public life — from political leaders and academics to journalists and grassroots campaigners.
Former Voice Editor Lester Holloway wrote:
“Another giant of our age passes on to the ancestors. Campaigner for the Windrush generation, for healthcare for Caribbean elders, for opportunities for young people, and for justice for Stephen Lawrence. Go well. RIP.”
PR expert Ronke Lawal described her as “a significant figure who has left a legacy through her work and her presence,” while Sharon Thompson wrote on Instagram:
“This is such a sad and significant loss for our community and the UK at large. All she stood for and championed so graciously represented us all. Your work is done, and you must now rest peacefully, Baroness Howells.”
Roxanne Thinks, of the Commonwealth Girls Education Fund, where Baroness Howells served as a patron, added:
“She was a valued Patron of our charity. Her guidance and support were immeasurable.”
‘The girl from St David’s done good’
Among those paying tribute was Professor Gus John, who first worked with Baroness Howells and Sybil Phoenix in 1974 at the Pagnell Street Centre and Moonshot Youth Club in Lewisham.
He recalled her dedication to young people, particularly young mothers and girls.
“Ros’s was a life of service and she impacted the lives and careers of too many to mention. The girl from St David’s done good! May Sister Hilda Bynoe, David Pitt, Theophilus Albert Marryshow, Rupert Bishop, Maurice Bishop, Asquith Gibbs and all those other giants welcome her with fanfare to the realm of Ancestors.”
Baroness Doreen Lawrence, who campaigned alongside her in the fight for justice for her son Stephen, said simply:
“Ros’s family, I am so sorry to hear of Ros’s passing. She was a great help to me in my time of need.”
Professor Chris Mullard described her as “one of our strong and brave Black women” — “a true warrior and trailblazer.”
‘Her generosity of spirit was unmistakable’
Onyekachi Wambu, Executive Director of the African Foundation for Development (AFFORD), offered both a moving and humorous reflection on her life.
“She fully deserves recognition as a dedicated supporter and advocate of community issues and causes.
“Whenever we reached out — whether for African Remembrance Day or AFFORD — Baroness Howells would always answer the call. Her generosity of spirit was unmistakable.
Her impact was felt across so many fronts — from race relations legislation to the campaign for justice for Stephen Lawrence — she served our community with energy and distinction.”
He recalled one of her favourite stories from her time in the House of Lords, when an elderly peer beside her suddenly slumped over.
“She thought he was getting a bit frisky — until she realised he was no longer breathing. Later, when the news reported that he had died ‘across the river’ at St Thomas’ Hospital, she winked and reminded us never to take anything from empire at face value.”
Deep Caribbean roots
Despite her long life in Britain, Baroness Howells never lost her connection to Grenada. The “St David’s” in her peerage title honoured her birthplace, and she maintained close ties with the island throughout her life.
She served as a trustee of Grenada’s St George’s University UK Trust, the Windward Islands Research and Education Foundation, and the Jason Roberts Foundation, which provides sporting opportunities for young people in the UK and Grenada.
In 2009, she became Chancellor of the University of Bedfordshire, adding another milestone to a life devoted to education, equality, and empowerment.
A lasting legacy
Baroness Howells’ passing marks the end of an era, but her legacy endures through the lives she touched and the institutions she helped shape.
She paved the way for generations of Black women in public life and remained a moral compass for Britain’s ongoing struggle for racial justice.
Journalist Juliet Alexander said:“Ros has left a huge and important legacy.”
Grenadian community figure Mia Morris OBE described her as “a trailblazer, pioneer and a legend,” while journalist Michelle Matherson summed up the sentiments of many:
“A true community hero indeed — may she rest in peace.”
As Professor Gus John reflected: “The girl from St David’s done good.”
Baroness Howells of St David’s will be remembered not only for what she achieved, but for how she carried herself, with dignity, courage, and a boundless love for her people.