NICHOLAS JOSEPH BERESFORD CRIPPS
12 March 1942 – 22 April 2025
In Loving Memory of Nicholas Joseph Beresford Cripps of Orange Creek, Cat Island, The Bahamas, formerly of Cirencester, United Kingdom.
We, the family of Nicholas Joseph Beresford Cripps, announce with great sadness his peaceful passing at the age of 83. He departed this life surrounded by his beloved wife and family.
Nicholas was a fearless legend in the world of powerboat racing, whose enduring spirit and passion for the sport led to the introduction of The Bahamas Grand Prix on Lake Cunningham in the 1980s. Known for his vibrant energy, sharp wit, and zest for life, he left an indelible mark on all who knew him.
Having made The Bahamas his home for over 40 years, Nicholas lived in Abaco before settling in Cat Island, where he found his “forever home.” It was there he met and married the love of his life, Lillian Manette Poitier, with whom he shared 26 years of marriage.
He was predeceased by his parents, Joseph Wykeham Cripps and Joyce Cripps (née Wilkinson), and his sister, Lady Carolyn Elwes.
He is lovingly survived by:
- Wife: Lillian Manette Poitier-Cripps
- Twin Daughters: Theresa Hawkins and Sarah Lewis
- Sons-in-law: Richard Hawkins, and Gordon Lewis
- Grandchildren: Jack, Freddie, and Lucy Hawkins; Joseph and Olivia Lewis
- Stepdaughters: Christina Minardi and Francesca Beaumelou (Olivier)
- Brothers-in-law: Sir Henry Elwes, Spencer Poitier, Kenneth Turnquest and Brian Albury
- Sisters-in-law: Ida Poitier-Turnquest, Wendyi Poitier, and Melanie Poitier
- Nephews: Freddie Elwes (Amelia), John Elwes (Harriet), and Samuel Turnquest
- Nieces: Amber and Heather Turnquest, Felicia, BryAnne, and Mishelle Albury, and Charis Poitier
- Grandnephews: Will and Tom Elwes, Oliver and Ames Turnquest
- Grandnieces: Octavia and Jemima Elwes
- Aunts: Maureen Rahming, Astrid Brookes, and Jane Adderley
He will be dearly missed by a host of family and friends around the world, including Enrico and AnnMarie Gazaroli and family, Livingston (Jonesy) Wilson and family of The Bluff, Cat Island, Brian Ariel, Lisa Pellerin, Maragret Cleare, Curtis & Jacqueline Campaigne, Jean & Elisabeth Bizzari, Alan & Sherri Crawford, Gregor & Maria Eble, Frank & Gabi Wolff, Pamela Poitier, Kay Chriswell, the Orange Creek Clinic Staff, Rev. Kenris Carey, Rev. Carla Culmer, the Community of Orange Creek, and his cherished feline companions.
Nicholas lived boldly, loved deeply, and leaves behind a legacy of joy, adventure, and unforgettable memories.
A Memorial Service will be held on Wednesday, 28 May 2025 at Trinity Methodist Church, Federick Street, 6:30pm.
1 thought on “NICHOLAS JOSEPH BERESFORD CRIPPS”
Lillian, I am just learning of Nick’s departure. We shared a Christmas some years ago with you and Nick on Cat Island, and the kindness and graciousness you both showed us will never be forgotten. In fact, Nick taught me how to snorkel—a gift and a memory I will always carry with me. Please accept our deepest condolences.