Obituary for Harold Green
Harold GreenWe regret to report the death of Harold Green, who passed away on Monday 27th January 2025, aged 90 years.
Harold was born on 15th February 1934, youngest of six children of parents John and Sophia Green (née Rogers). Harold married Amy Glass on 9th April 1957, and they had two children, Richard and Pamela.
Harold was a capable, prominent and widely respected member of the Tristan community. He was chosen to join the Gough Island Scientific Survey in 1956 and at 22 was the youngest islander member of the team, valued for his lively personality, skilled seamanship and physical energy. He got to know Gough and its wildlife well and returned many times especially with Gough botanist Nigel Wace. He also forged friendships with other Gough team members who kept in touch through correspondence and personal visits to Tristan over many years. Michael Swales was a particular friend who would phone Harold most Sundays whilst he was able.
Returning from exile in the UK, Harold's house was overshadowed by the ash cone and black lava of the 1961 volcanic eruption, which caused severe damage to his older brother Dennis' dwelling, immediately behind Harold's home. Dennis and his family decided to return straight to England in 1963, and Harold's family followed them back to Hampshire when they left Tristan again in 1966. However, they changed their mind, so in 1967 they returned to re-settle permanently on Tristan.
Harold worked for the Public Works Department and fished for the fishing company on suitable days. He always spoke his mind and was often a leader when the fishermen were seeking better working conditions. It was no surprise that he was elected to the first formal Island Council in 1970 and then chosen by his fellow-councillors to become the first elected Chief Islander, when Willie Repetto retired that same year from what had previously been a ceremonial post simply referred to as 'Chief'. Harold was re-elected as Chief Islander in 1979 to serve a second three-year term of office.
In January 1983, Harold joined the Denstone Expedition to Inaccessible Island, renewing his friendship with its leader Michael Swales. At 47, he was the youngest of the three island guides, and in the official expedition report Harold's physical strength, devout faith, strong character, fishing skill, seamanship and expertise with the beach braais were all noted.
Harold remained fit and active for many more years, keeping his house spic-and-span, tending his attractive garden and giving an assured welcome to any new or old friends. Harold's widespread and deep knowledge of the Tristan da Cunha islands, together with his openness to engage in conversation, established him as a great character in the island community. Harold will be remembered with great affection by many friends overseas and by all on Tristan. Many will be disappointed that he never received an honour that his distinguished life seemed to warrant.
Harold is survived by his wife Amy, daughter Pamela and son-in-law Thomas Swain, grandchildren Sonia Williams, Damian and George Swain, daughter-in-law Francesca, grandson Rodney and great-grandchildren Natasha, Mia, Esme and Connor.