John Babb, one of the stalwarts of Trinidad and Tobago’s media landscape, passed away on August 3, 2024, at the age of 91. His family confirmed his death in the hospital, marking the end of an era for a man who dedicated over 70 years to journalism.

Born in the post-colonial days of mid-20th century Trinidad and Tobago, John Babb emerged as a profound observer and a silent warrior with a keen eye for truth.

Former journalist Maurisa Findlay remembers him as a man who walked upright, spoke sensibly, and upheld journalistic principles with unwavering commitment.

“He was a beautiful human,” Findlay wrote in a remembrance.

John Babb’s career began in the 1950s at the Port of Spain Gazette, where he formed a close friendship with Therese Mills.

His political reporting during the late 1960s, particularly in the Mirror, inspired many young journalists. Known for producing swift and immaculate copy, Babb often owned the lead story of the day.

“A man with a bodybuilder’s physique who bench pressed sentences with effortless ease, he was an impressive figure who underlined his presence with a quiet authority,” recalled Mark Lyndersay, who met him as a young journalist.

“I don’t believe I ever heard John Babb raise his voice. He didn’t have to. His words were calculated and precise. His attitude gracious but uncompromising.”

“The man commanded the spaces he occupied, whether it was the front page of the paper or the frontline of the pan around the neck steelbands he played with”

Keith Subero’s admiration for Babb grew as they worked alongside each other at the Trinidad Guardian. “His political reporting was my inspiration,” Subero said, recalling how Babb’s fast work and clean copy set the standard in the newsroom.

Babb’s professionalism and style were unmatched, producing the daily lead story with consistency and his fluency with shorthand gave him a compelling advantage in verbatim court reporting.

Even as competitors on St Vincent Street, their mutual respect was evident. “My scoops had been his daily dread,” Subero admits, highlighting the competitive yet respectful nature of their relationship.

“JB had a major advantage; he was the only journalist that Prime Minister, Dr. Eric Williams, would speak with over the years.”

Beyond journalism, John Babb Subero remembers that Babb was also a recognised musician. He led “John Babb and the Highlites” and was a founding member of Tripolians, the first revived single pan band in Trinidad and Tobago.

John Babb joined Newsday as its founding News Editor in 1993 and played a pivotal role in its foundation and growth until his retirement on March 4, 2016. His contributions to journalism were recognised with a national award, a testament to his impact and legacy.