Daviot Kelly, Staff Reporter 
Olga Lebedev (right), widow of the Russian Ambassador, is consoled by a friend at a memorial service at the embassy on March 31. - JUNIOR DOWIE/STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
HE PASSED as quietly as he arrived. Russian Ambassador Igor Lebedev died of an apparent heart attack on Friday, March 24, at his residence on Norbrook Drive, St. Andrew.
The passing of the 61-year-old ambassador surprised many. His widow Olga remembers him as a man with a good sense of humour.
"His favourite joke was that Jamaica has a two-party system there are two parties every night,"
she joked.
MAGNETISM
An active man, she recalled how he liked to hunt, fish and even play billiards with the drivers. That's why even though he was here for less than a year, it was this kind of magnetism that drew all to him. He was an active member of the Diplomatic Corps, participating in various cultural projects and exhibitions, representing his country ably.
Names penned into the condolence book that was set up at the embassy, and the turnout at the small memorial service on March 31 at the embassy were testimonies to persons who respected him.
"Although we were only here for a short period, he became a part of Jamaica," Mrs. Lebedev said.
Politicians, fellow ambassadors and consuls all came to pay their respects and gave support. Even his predecessor, Edward Malayan, sent words of comfort as they had worked closely for 20 years. Mrs. Lebedev is philosophical about her husband's passing.
"This year would have been our 34th anniversary but God decides when it's time. We thank God for the beautiful year (we had)," she reflected.
POSTINGS
Ambassador Lebedev was also non-resident ambassador to Antigua and Barbuda, as well as Dominica, at the time of his passing. For 32 years he worked within his country's Foreign Ministry.
Journalism was one of his earliest professions but he also served as director of history and records in the Russian Foreign Ministry. Before being posted in Jamaica, he was General Consul of the Russian Federation in Canada.
Ambassador Lebedev leaves behind two sons and one grandson. His ashes have been flown
to Russia.
