Sir Aziz Hadeed to Receive Official Funeral After Sudden Death

Sir Aziz Hadeed will receive an official funeral after his sudden death in Chicago on Saturday. His passing has shocked Antigua and Barbuda.

He collapsed while visiting the United States. Notably, his wife, Dr. Mahasen Hadeed, previously worked there as a medical doctor.

He was expected to return to Antigua over the weekend. However, those plans ended after his sudden death.

As news spread, grief grew across the country. In many tributes, he was described as a leading businessman and philanthropist.

Early Life and Education

Sir Aziz was born to the late Fares and Ramza Hadeed. Importantly, he arrived in Antigua in the early 1960s.

He attended St. Joseph’s Academy. There, he overcame language barriers through strong mathematics skills.

Afterward, he joined F.E. Hadeed and Sons. He worked closely with his brother, Sir Ramez Hadeed.

Together, they expanded the family business across several sectors. As a result, the company grew into a major national enterprise.

Business and Energy Contributions

He helped build the Hadeed Group of Companies. Over time, it became the largest business conglomerate in Antigua and Barbuda.

In addition, he played a key role in energy development. He helped establish the Antigua Power Company (APC).

Today, APC supplies most of the island’s electricity through its arrangement with APUA. It has also explored hybrid diesel and LNG projects.

Public Service and National Work

Beyond business, he served in public life. Previously, he was an Independent Senator and later a Cabinet member under former Prime Minister Baldwin Spencer.

At the same time, education remained central to his work. He served as Chairman of the UWI Five Islands Campus Council.

There, he supported expansion efforts and funded student education. Moreover, he assisted many students and families privately.

In addition, he supported healthcare, housing, and business needs across Antigua and Barbuda. Notably, many of his contributions were done quietly.

Legacy and National Tributes

He also supported the arts. For example, he donated land to the Antigua and Barbuda Youth Symphony Orchestra.

Earlier this year, he received the KCMG honour from Prince William in London. As a result, many saw it as recognition of his lifelong service.

Prime Minister Gaston Browne paid tribute on his radio programme. He called him “Comrade Aziz” and extended condolences.

Finally, officials say funeral arrangements will be announced in the coming days.