Tony “Pan Jumbie” Williams passed away after a long and courageous battle with diabetes, a fight marked by strength, resilience, and quiet determination despite the many complications he endured.
His passing is a profound loss to his family, friends, and, most notably, to the Steelband and wider musical community, where Tony was revered not just as a musician, but as a legend whose influence will echo for generations.
Known affectionately as Pan Jumbie, Tony devoted his life to the steelpan, an instrument that became an extension of his spirit. From an early age, music was not simply a passion for him it was a calling.
Over the years, he built an extraordinary career as a performer, arranger, and teacher, shaping the sound and future of steelband music through his talent and tireless dedication.
His mastery of the pan, combined with his deep understanding of rhythm, melody, and cultural expression, earned him immense respect both locally and internationally.
Tony’s impact went far beyond the stage. As an arranger, he had a unique ability to bring out the soul of a piece, blending technical brilliance with emotional depth. His arrangements challenged musicians to grow while honoring the roots of the music he loved so deeply.
As a teacher and mentor, Tony was generous with his knowledge. He invested countless hours guiding young musicians, encouraging discipline, creativity, and pride in their cultural heritage.
Many who learned under him credit Tony not only for their musical skills, but for instilling confidence, purpose, and a sense of belonging.
Despite facing significant health challenges, Tony continued to give back to the music community for as long as he was able. His battle with diabetes was fought with remarkable courage, and even in difficult moments, he remained committed to music and to those around him.
His strength in the face of adversity inspired many, serving as a reminder of his unwavering love for life and art.
At the heart of Tony’s life was his family. He was a devoted husband, and his wife Lisa stood by him with love and support throughout his illness.
Their bond was a source of comfort and strength, and Lisa, along with the rest of Tony’s family, now carries the weight of this loss while also holding onto the immense pride of his legacy.
During this difficult time, the family deeply appreciates the outpouring of love, prayers, and support from the community Tony cared for so deeply.
A service celebrating Tony Pan Jumbie Williams’s life will be held on Saturday, February 7th, at 11:00 a.m. (Trinidad local time). This gathering will be an opportunity for family, friends, fellow musicians, and admirers to come together to honor a man whose life was dedicated to music, culture, and community.
Though Tony’s physical presence is gone, his legacy lives on in the rhythms he created, the musicians he shaped, and the vibrant steelband tradition he helped sustain.
His music will continue to play, his lessons will continue to guide, and his spirit will forever remain a part of Trinidad’s cultural heartbeat.
