THE GLEANER, THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2025 | www.jamaica-gleaner.com | B2 remarkable teachers like Professor Eddie Baugh (English), Carlyle Dunkley (religion), and Marcus Garvey III (mathematics). “Garvey had the kind of voice that could read the Yellow Pages and have us listening in rapt attention,” he said. “Not once did he mention his famous father – such humility earned our respect.” THE MAKING OF AN ENTREPRENEUR Even as a student, Sing showed ashes of leadership and enterprise. As Class Planner, he organised trips to Hope Gardens and the beach, coordinating every detail “like a professional tour guide”. He soon turned that energy into enterprise, producing and selling purple-and-white KC buttons during Champs season. “Those were life lessons disguised as fun,” he said. “I learned early that I could make things happen.” A JOURNEY THROUGH BUSINESS Leaving KC at 15, Sing’s rst job was at Joseph’s Department Store on Orange Street – earning a promotion his very rst week. He later joined Hand Arnold Ltd and T. Geddes Grant, mastering sales and customer relations. His career-de ning achievement came when he won the approval of Carl Chang, a major client known for his exacting standards. By 1970, Sing leased a small shop in Havendale and stepped into business ownership. From there, he built a formidable retail group: 1974: Founded Super Valu Supermarket 1988: Established Manor Park Pharmacy 1998: Opened Super Valu Home Centre 2020: Launched Fresh Foods, expanding the Super Valu Group of Companies Through discipline, integrity, and innovation, Mr Chin transformed a single store into one of Jamaica’s most trusted retail enterprises. QUIET PHILANTHROPIST, PROUD FORTIS A man of few words but generous deeds, Mr Chin has consistently supported his alma mater. He has contributed to major projects such as the Douglas Forrest Building and the PA/audio system in the school chapel. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Super Valu Fresh Foods donated gift baskets to KC teachers. Principal Dave Myrie remarked, “Mr Sing Chin is one of those old boys who has been quietly supporting the school over the years. His deep love for KC is not displayed by words but by actions. Reynold Scott, chairman of the Kingston College Development Fund, said, “He was a good man and a faithful and signi cant contributor to our alma mater. He will be missed.” Sing partnered with community organisations, including The University of the West Indies Dialysis Centre, extending his generosity beyond North Street. The Prime Minister of Jamaica, Dr Andrew Holness, said Sing was “a visionary entrepreneur, philanthropist, and dedicated Jamaican who devoted his life to building both business and community …”. The prime minister also added, “Beyond his business achievements, Mr Sing Chin will be remembered for his generous spirit and his commitment to national service. During the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl last year, he worked tirelessly to assist with the relief efforts, ensuring that essential supplies reached those most affected. His compassion and readiness to serve embodied the best of the Jamaican spirit.” HONOURED AT HOME In 2019, the KC family surprised him with a symbolic ‘graduation ceremony,’ presenting an honorary diploma in recognition of his decades of support. Four years later, Jamaica itself bestowed a tting tribute – the Order of Distinction (Commander Class) in 2023, for contributions to the business and economic development of Jamaica. “My success reflects this country’s determination to succeed,” he said. “Being awarded the Order of Distinction affirms those same beliefs.” A LIFE SHAPED BY KC Even after building an empire, the late Mr Sing Chin remained grounded in the Fortis values of discipline, service, and faith. He would often smile when reminded that he once rode a motorcycle to school – an early sign of his daring independence. Though he has passed on, Mr Sing Chin, CD, is fondly remembered as a national honouree and respected businessman who exempli ed the Kingston College motto: “The brave may fall but never yield.” His life stands as a lasting testament to the enduring power of a Fortis education and the generous heart of a true KC old boy. BD2 MR. SING SLUN CHIN We honn his memny, his legacy will be remembered with deep respect Tribute to MR SING SLUN CHIN, CD FROM HUMBLE BEGINNINGS TO NATIONAL HONOUR CONTINUED FROM D1
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