The UK Independent has reported that Wellesley, father of Usain Bolt, has passed away at 68 years old.
He died in Jamaica on Monday after battling a prolonged illness. Wellesley and his wife Jennifer ran a grocery store and kept a quiet lifestyle.
Despite his low profile, Wellesley was instrumental in Usain Bolt‘s success, as the sprinter went on to win eight Olympic gold medals.
“I join with every Jamaican in extending my deepest and most sincere condolences to Usain Bolt, his beloved mother Mrs. Jennifer Bolt, and the entire Bolt family, following the passing of their patriarch, Mr. Wellesley Bolt.
“Mr. Bolt was the father of a global icon, and a strong, quiet force behind one of Jamaica’s greatest sons. His presence, support, and guidance helped to shape a legacy that continues to inspire the world,” Jamaica’s Prime Minister, Andrew Holness, wrote on social media.
Wellesley is survived by his wife Jennifer and three children, Usain, Sadiki and Christine Bolt-Hylton.
