The University of the West Indies community is mourning the death of former Deputy Principal and distinguished chemist, Baldwin Stephen Mootoo, who died at his home in Lopinot on Tuesday, May 12, surrounded by family. He was 89.

Professor Mootoo devoted more than three decades of service to The University of the West Indies, earning recognition as one of the institution’s leading academics and administrators. During his career, he served as lecturer and researcher in Chemistry, Head of Department, Dean of the Faculty of Natural Sciences, Deputy Principal of the St Augustine Campus and later Pro Vice-Chancellor for Research.

Born on April 30, 1937, Mootoo was the son of Randolph Mootoo and Elizabeth Chinnia. He was predeceased by his wife, Joyce Lodenquai-Mootoo. He is survived by daughters Judy and Karlene, grandchildren Daniel, Patrick, Samantha and Liam, and siblings Myrtle, Winston, Kelvin and Randy.