Soleta Thomas remembered for quiet influence, professional excellence at JPS

Soleta Thomas was remembered on January 24 during her funeral service at East Queen Street Baptist Church in Kingston as a professional of rare steadiness and quiet influence — someone whose work shaped not only the public voice of Jamaica Public Service (JPS) but also the people around her.

Colleagues, media partners and friends gathered to honour a career marked by excellence, integrity and an unassuming humanity that left a lasting imprint on Jamaica’s communications fraternity.

Thomas, who died in 2025 after a brief, but courageous battle with cancer, served in JPS’ corporate communications department as communications assistant – media and PR unit. Over a 16-year tenure that began in the customer care centre, she became both a trusted colleague within the organisation and a respected partner to the media, known for bringing clarity to complex issues and composure to moments of intense scrutiny.

For those who worked alongside her, Thomas was far more than a communications specialist. She was the steady hand behind countless media interviews, the calm presence during high-pressure moments, and an effective bridge between institution and public. Colleagues recall her rare ability to combine strategic insight with emotional intelligence, enabling her to manage sensitive narratives without losing sight of the people involved.

Throughout her career, Thomas earned a reputation for professionalism that was as consistent as it was admired. She approached her work with meticulous care, always prepared and guided by firm ethical standards. Media partners came to rely on her for accuracy, clarity and honesty; colleagues, meanwhile, valued her for mentorship, guidance and unwavering support.

Her contributions did not go unnoticed. An award-winning team member, Thomas received several commendations during her years at JPS, reflecting not only her technical skill, but also her wider impact on the organisation and the communications landscape. Despite these achievements, she remained notably humble, consistently placing collective success above personal recognition.

Her manager, Audrey Williams, described Thomas as exceptional in both competence and character.

“Soleta was the kind of professional every leader hopes to have on their team. She was dependable, thoughtful, and deeply committed to excellence. Beyond her competence, she brought warmth and integrity to everything she did. Our department, and our organisation was better because of her.”

Others within JPS echoed those sentiments, noting that Thomas’ influence extended well beyond her formal responsibilities. While, she earned the respect of senior leadership, customers and peers alike, it was her humility and generosity of spirit that left the most enduring impression.

Shenee Anderson, brand experience and special projects officer at JPS, a colleague and close friend, reflected on Thomas’ understated, but powerful presence.

“She never needed to be the loudest voice in the room. Her work and presence spoke for itself. She worked without fuss, supported without being asked, and always made time for others. Working with her was a privilege and an honour. For me, she was beyond a colleague, she is my dear friend, and she is greatly missed.”