Feb. 25, 2002 – Well-known St. Croix resident Malcolm K. Plaskett died Sunday in Washington, D.C. He was 58.
"He was Derek Hodge's right-hand man," said Gregory L. Davila, spokesman for Lt. Gov. Gerard Luz James II.
Plaskett served for eight years as special assistant to Hodge, who was lieutenant governor in the Alexander Farrelly administration. Plaskett also was a member of the Elections Board, the Economic Development Commission and the Territorial Committee of the Democratic Party.
"Members of the Plaskett family were staunch Democrats, particularly Raymond and Malcolm, who were driving forces witin the Unity Party, a precursor to what is now the Democratic Party," James said in a press release. He said Plaskett was recognized as a "consummate parliamentarian" and was well-versed in labor relations.
James said that Plaskett also was a civic-minded person — a dedicated member of Caribbean Light Lodge No. 101, Free and Accepted Masons, as well as of the Gentlemen of Jones.
Delegate Donna Christian Christensen remembered him as a classmate, friend and adviser. "I will miss his counsel and his friendship," she said.
James said that Plaskett grew up on Hill Street in Christiansted behind St. Mary's Catholic School. Plaskett's family stretches far and wide. In addition to his wife, Corine, and his daughter, Nikki, he is survived by many other family members, including Planning and Natural Resources Commissioner Dean C. Plaskett, a nephew.
Information on services was not immediately available.
