ISLANDERS have been paying tribute to Constable Sadie Le Sueur-Rennard, who died on Friday.
Mrs Le Sueur-Rennard was taken ill in the morning and her death was formally announced by the Bailiff, Timothy Le Cocq, in the afternoon.
She was elected as St Saviour Constable in 2011 before being returned unopposed in 2014 and 2018.
A St Saviour parish spokesperson said: ‘Sadie has always had a strong passion for arts, environment, and her beloved farm. Sadie will be remembered by parishioners for her hard work to introducing recycling in St Saviour, and more recently successful Island Plan amendments to restrict more development in the parish.
‘As a governor of a schools, she was also committed to improving school conditions for children, collaborated with the Infrastructure Department to provide safer routes to schools and supported the Battle of Flowers in St Saviour. She will be remembered as a true member of the people who was always there for her parishioners.’
The Constable, who was a member of the Environment, Housing and Infrastructure Scrutiny Panel, is perhaps best known for her Liberation Day renditions of Beautiful Jersey, which became a tradition of the celebrations.
Mrs Le Sueur-Rennard said in October that she planned to step down in June, explaining that she felt that, at the age of 76, she no longer wanted to deal with a Council of Ministers who she criticised for failing to listen to the general public.
St Saviour Deputy Jess Perchard said that the parish had ‘lost its mother’.
She added: ‘I’ve known Sadie for over 20 years. When I was a child, we performed at the Opera House together as mother and daughter on stage. She was a force of nature then, being firm but incredibly protective of her “stage children” and that very much set the tone for our relationship in politics.
‘She was a stalwart of Jersey life, always putting her parishioners front and centre of her political thinking. She cared deeply about St Saviour, her Jersey heritage and has been an advocate for the vulnerable, particularly more senior citizens, throughout her public service.
‘Always ready to challenge injustice and to fiercely protect her beloved island, Sadie never held back from making her voice heard. It’s a trait that has been a huge source of strength and inspiration for others and one that I know is appreciated by her colleagues. She will be sorely missed and fondly remembered.’
States Members took to social media to pay tribute to Mrs Le Sueur-Rennard.
Deputy Chief Minister Lyndon Farnham wrote: ‘So very shocked and saddened to learn of the sudden passing of the Connétable of St Saviour. Sadie was one of Jersey’s great characters, a true force of nature, straight-talking yet kind, compassionate and talented. She will be greatly missed. RIP Sadie.’
Senator Sam Mézec added: This is absolutely shocking and so very sad. Sadie was one of the most colourful characters I’ve ever met and I just can’t imagine the States without her. My thoughts are with her family and frankly the whole Island, who will miss her dearly.’
Senator Ian Gorst posted: ‘I am shocked and deeply saddened at the news that Sadie Rennard has passed away.
‘Sadie was always so warm, friendly and kind. She was so proud of our Island and traditions and always stood up for St Saviour.
‘I know many people will miss her greatly, as will I. RIP Sadie.’
