Compton Desmond Kowlessar

Compton Desmond Kowlessar was born on December 2, 1935, in British Guiana (now Guyana) to his beloved parents, Lena Hyderkhan and Harry Kowlessar. He was the second of seven siblings namely Jean (deceased) Thelma, Walter a.k.a Bing, Gloria, Monica, and Bernadette. Educated in Guyana, Desmond relocated to the United States in the 1950’s full of ambition and determination to build a better life. He took on various jobs and gradually began fulfilling his dreams of becoming a businessman. With deep intellect and unwavering dedication, he earned his U.S. Citizenship and eventually became a successful entrepreneur. During this journey his first love Lolita Frances Pile, were united in Holy matrimony in 1959 and had three beautiful daughters: Marcia, Monique and Denise.

A devoted family man, Desmond was also a gifted educator in accounting. He guided countless students with wisdom, patience and integrity. He invested in real estate becoming the landlord

of several apartment buildings and three private schools in Brooklyn, N.Y., one of which was Magic Kingdom and Arista Prep that he and his 2nd wife Marcia Co-founded together in Brooklyn. Their outstanding contribution to the community via hundreds of graduates lives on. Additionally he will be remembered as a generous soul, always willing to help provide a place of refuge to family and friends—especially those arriving from Guyana until they settled into their new lives. His business ventures flourished until his retirement, after which he relocated to Miami, Florida in the early 2000’s.

In his later years, despite facing health challenges, Desmond remained disciplined in his daily exercises and was a devoted reader of the scriptures; praying daily.

Although distance often separated him from his children, he adored them deeply and took great joy in hearing about their lives and growth of his beloved family, particularly his 12 grandchildren,19 great grands, and 2 great, great grands. He is survived by his siblings Thelma, Walter a.k.a Bing, Gloria, Monica, and Bernadette. His youngest beloved daughter, Denise and his cherished bonus son, Douglas Kowlessar, a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, dear friends, and especially his companion and caregiver Gillian Paul. Desmond’s gentle spirit, sharp mind and quiet strength left an indelible mark on the hearts of many; that is sure to continue to inspire all who were blessed to know him. He will be dearly missed and remembered not only for his professional accomplishment, but also for the warmth, kindness and humility he brought to every

interaction. His memory will be cherished and celebrated as a life well lived—a legacy of knowledge, love, and quiet perseverance. Until we meet again, we are comforted in knowing that Desmond is resting in heavenly peace.

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self seeking. It is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts,

always hopes, always preserves. Love never fails.

1st Corinthians 13: 4-8