Governor Bryan, Roach Family Issue Separate Statements After Death of Violette Roach Browne

Governor Albert Bryan Jr. and the Roach family issued separate statements following the death of Violette Roach Browne, sister of Lieutenant Governor Tregenza A. Roach. The governor’s release conveyed condolences to the lieutenant governor and his family, while the family’s statement reflected on Browne’s role in the Roach family and her close, enduring presence in the lieutenant governor’s life.

In his statement, Governor Bryan addressed Lieutenant Governor Roach directly.

“My dear brother Tregenza,
I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of your beloved sister, Violette. Please know that my heart is with you during this time of profound loss.”

The governor said Violette Roach Browne, as the lieutenant governor’s older sister, helped shape the man he became.

“The bond between siblings is a sacred one, and as your older sister, Violette no doubt helped shape the man of strength, character, and compassion that you are today. Her presence, her guidance, and her love will forever remain a part of you.”

He extended condolences to the family as a whole.

“On behalf of the entire Virgin Islands, I extend prayers and heartfelt condolences to you, to your mother, your brother Ian, and to your entire family. May you all find comfort in one another, in cherished memories, and in the enduring love that Violette leaves behind.”

In a separate release, the Roach family said it is grieving the loss of a beloved sister, mother, daughter, and friend.

According to the family, Violette Roach Browne died on Friday. The statement said that throughout Lieutenant Governor Roach’s years of service to the people of the Virgin Islands, she remained a constant companion and a steady presence of love, strength, and support.

"Violette was not just my sister, she was my first friend, my confidante, and a constant in my life. Through every chapter, she stood by me with quiet strength and unwavering love. Her passing leaves a void that words cannot fill." — Lieutenant Governor Tregenza A. Roach

The family said Violette Roach Browne was part of the Roach family that migrated to the U.S. Virgin Islands from Sandy Point, St. Kitts and Nevis, and came to call the U.S. Virgin Islands home.

While she most recently lived in Orlando, Florida, the statement said she remained deeply connected to the territory and was a good friend to many across the community.

She is survived by her sons, Shaun and Troy Lynch; her brothers, Tregenza and Ian; and her mother, Iona Roach, along with extended family and community members who loved her dearly.

The family asked for privacy as they mourn and honor her life and legacy.

The release concluded by asking the community to keep Lieutenant Governor Roach and his family in their thoughts and prayers.