U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS — Governor Albert Bryan Jr. issued the following statement on the passing of St. Croix attorney, author and public servant Michael A. Joseph:
“I join the people of the Virgin Islands in extending heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, colleagues and loved ones of Attorney Michael Joseph.
Michael was not only a respected attorney and public servant, but also a personal friend whose counsel I relied on through the years. His passing is a loss I feel personally, and it is also a loss for St. Croix and for the broader Virgin Islands community.
Attorney Joseph was a son of St. Croix whose life and work were deeply connected to the law, public service and the history of our Virgin Islands. Over a legal career that spanned decades, he appeared in some of the Territory’s most important courtrooms, including the District Court of the Virgin Islands and the United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit. He also served as Acting Federal Public Defender and earned a reputation as a strong and committed advocate, particularly in criminal defense, where the work is often difficult but essential to justice.
His advocacy extended beyond the courtroom. In one notable civil matter, Attorney Joseph represented 86 employees in an early retirement case against the Government Employees’ Retirement System, helping secure millions of dollars in relief for workers who had relied on promises made to them. That case reflected his understanding that the law is not abstract. It affects people’s paychecks, their liberty, their families and their futures.
Attorney Joseph also served the public as a member of the Virgin Islands Board of Elections representing the St. Croix District, contributing to one of the most important institutions in our democracy. He was also an author, and through Fountain Valley 1972, he added to the public record on one of the most painful and consequential chapters in St. Croix’s modern history.
Michael Joseph was a lawyer, writer, public servant, Crucian and friend who made his mark on the legal and civic life of this Territory. His work, his voice and his service will remain part of the Virgin Islands’ story.
On behalf of the Government of the Virgin Islands, Lieutenant Governor Roach and our entire administration, I extend my deepest sympathy to Attorney Joseph’s family and to all who mourn his passing. May they be comforted by the memories of his life, his service and his contributions to the Virgin Islands.”
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