The Sports Writers Association of Liberia (SWAL) says it is shocked by the death of versatile journalist, senior member of SWAL, mentor and trainer, Horatio Bobby Willie.
Willie’s death came less than a month after the media community in Liberia began recovering from the death wounds of two of its fallen colleagues: Yede Allison and Prince Kromah, both of whom were broadcast journalists laid to rest a weeks ago.
Horatio, a devoted Christian from the Catholic faith, died July 13, 2021 at the age of 44, following a brief illness.
Before his demise, the well-schooled and experienced sports journalist, mentor, trainer and sports commentator worked for the defunct Independent Star Radio, Radio Veritas and many others.
Willie was, among other things, known for showcasing excellence and professionalism, passion and commitment.
Up till his demise, Willie was always providing mentorship for young sports reporters as well as attending SWAL’s activities.
According to SWAL’s President, Kolubah Zayzay, Horatio Bobby Willie’s death, which he branded as untimely and saddening, is also an irreplaceable lost for the sporting sector of the media community.
Willie also served as assistant minister, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, during President Sirleaf’s administration and communication director at the Gender Ministry.
He further served other media positions and chaired a series of committees at the level of the Press Union of Liberia (PUL), notable among them the 2018 awards committee of the Press Union of Liberia.
His death news surface in the media sector as a surprise after his colleagues, a few days ago, began calling on all journalists and friends in the media to wish him a speedy recovery.
Nesta, as he was affectionately called among his sports colleagues, was an experienced sports analyst and senior reporter and editor. He was also a strong supporter of Chelsea and AC Milan clubs, England and Italy, respectively.
The veteran sports reporter was born on October 5, 1977 and died on Tuesday July 13, 2021. The cause of his death remains unknown.