Sir John Augustus Fitzroy Watts (born 1921 or 1922 – 11 May 2015) was a Grenadian dental surgeon and long‑time public servant who played a prominent role in his country's parliamentary life. He is best known as a co‑founder of the Grenada National Party and for serving two separate terms as President of the Senate of Grenada, from 1988 to 1990 and again from 1995 to 2004.

Background and professional life

Watts was born in the parish of St. Patrick on the island of Grenada. Trained and practising as a dentist, he combined a health‑care profession with civic involvement. Like many professional figures of his generation in the Caribbean, he used his standing in the community as a base for wider public engagement and political activity.

Political career and roles

As a politician, Watts helped establish the Grenada National Party, a party that became part of the island's multi‑party landscape. He served as President of the Senate— the presiding officer of Grenada's upper parliamentary chamber— on two occasions. In that capacity he was responsible for chairing debates in the Senate, enforcing rules of procedure, and representing the chamber in official matters. His periods in office covered important years of Grenadian governance following independence and political realignments.

Honours and recognition

Watts received several formal honours for his public service, including appointments to the Order of the British Empire (CBE) and as a Knight Commander of the Order of St Michael and St George (KCMG). These distinctions are part of the British honours system and are often awarded to citizens of Commonwealth countries for distinguished service in public, diplomatic or community roles.

Legacy and later life

Sir John Watts remained a respected figure in Grenada until his death in St. George's on 11 May 2015 at the age of 93. Observers and colleagues recalled his long engagement with parliamentary institutions and his contributions to public life across decades. His career illustrates the way professional expertise and civic leadership intersected in mid‑20th and late‑20th century Caribbean politics.

Key facts

  • Co‑founder of the Grenada National Party — an active force in Grenadian politics.
  • President of the Senate: 1988–1990 and 1995–2004.
  • Professional dentist who practised in Grenada and engaged in community affairs.
  • Honoured as CBE and KCMG for public and community service; see details here.
  • Biographical overviews and parliamentary records can be found through national and regional resources such as Grenadian historical summaries and legislative archives.
  • Died in the capital, St. George's, on 11 May 2015.