For James Alves, the achievement of this task was not all. In 1922, he fell in love and subsequently married a Trinidadian, Maude Enisnore Boddie. Following the marriage, the family took up residence at Woodbrook, a section of Port-of-Spain, where he spent the rest of his life. The union produced one offspring – a daughter, Stephanie Alves.
James Alves was also well known for his extensive involvement with the Methodist Church as an Educator and Pianist. He was also involved in community affairs and regarded as a man of strong will and determination to succeed.
In August 1969, he succumbed to complications following surgery at the Port-of-Spain General Hospital.
For the blind in Trinidad and Tobago, in particular, and the entire Caribbean, in general, the late James Augustus Alves holds pride of place for his sterling contribution in pioneering the introduction of services for the welfare, vocational training and education of persons who are blind.
Researched by: Raphael Maule – Trinidad & Tobago
Presented by: Frank L. Bowen.
“Preventing blindness and visual impairment; while restoring sight and creating opportunities for persons whose sight cannot be restored”.