Boynes remembered for his generosity, founding ferry business that improved lives of St. Johnians

Family and friends of boat captain Noel Ulysses “Breeze” Boynes Sr. remembered him on Wednesday as a beloved brother, father, grandfather and fourth generation St. Johnian, who left behind a legacy of love and civic service.

Boynes died Tuesday in Washington, D.C. at age 86.

In 1975 Boynes and his wife, Bernice Mahoney Boynes, started a business with two small vessels, the M/V Jimmy and the M/V/ Cheri-B with the support of family, and in 1980 they founded Boyson Incorporated. The company provided a vital connection between St. Thomas and St. John, by transporting vehicles, food, fuel, emergency vehicles, construction material, mail and even tourists. “Boyson Inc. will remain in the history of the Virgin Islands as a beacon of hope, service, and commitment,” his niece Monique Matthias told The Daily News. “Like his father, he pioneered and revolutionized the marine industry of the Virgin Islands.”

Boynes would often utilize his business to give back to the community. He assisted the Fire Department with the fire on Water Island, provided the Federal Emergency Management Agency with ongoing service during and after hurricanes Hugo and Marilyn, provided emergency services to the St. John Health Center when patient transports to St. Thomas were required, and gave community donations to support St. John students.