Jay Bodden: A True Caymanian Pioneer

By: Flynn Bush

Undoubtedly, one would have seen, or heard, that the new “Airport Connector Road” has been officially opened. This much anticipated stretch of highway will help to alleviate traffic and to improve connectability in George Town. While those among us who have been in Cayman for at least three decades would understand the choice of name, there may be some who are wondering why it was named the Jay Bodden Highway. Who was this Mr. Bodden, after all? Well, perhaps some enlightenment is in order.

Born in 1931, the youngest of three sons born to Harold Bodden and Pearl Dean Jackson Bodden, Harold Alfred “Jay” Bodden went on to become one the country’s premier pioneers. Even contracting Rheumatic Fever as a young child, a diagnosis that was often fatal at the time, did not stop Jay from going on to become a successful entrepreneur. He along with his brothers managed to become the main suppliers of marl and crushed rock in Grand Cayman, and to found Island Paving as well. That company is still, today, the premier road paving and development company in the country.

It should also be pointed out that the major area of industrial park, located way in the back of CUC and near to where the new highway culminates, is the beginning of a major town center, Jay’s dream; after Jay acquired the land and initially placed the office for his company, CAYMARL, Ltd there. Mr. Bodden’s accomplishments, and his contributions to the community, also led to his being awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM), in 2001, an award that was presented by Prince Andrew in person.

Of course, to his five children, he had four daughters and one son with his wife, Mary, he was more than a successful businessman. He was a loving and inspiring father who encouraged his children to do their best and to be the best that they could be. He instilled honesty, respect for the environment, and a strong work ethic in each of them. In 2001, his daughter, Heather, said, “Our father is a shining light for us and for this country. His vision and drive will never let him rest while there is work to be done and people he can help. He could be a millionaire many times over but he chooses to give it away helping others. We are blessed to have him as our father, and Cayman is much richer because of his foresight and determination.”

Well, although Mr. Jay Bodden is now enjoying his eternal rest, it behooves us to remember his legacy. Each one of us has a choice in our lives to do something, or not do something, that will have a positive impact on our community. He chose the former. He chose to contribute positively, and in the process, he set a great example for his children and for the country as a whole.