Wilbert Menzie

September 7, 1953 – September 26, 2026

Wilbert Menzie (Minzie) Jr., 73, of Orlando, Florida, went home to be with the Lord on September 26, 2026. He was born the seventh of 13 children on September 7 to Wilbert Minzie Sr. and Mary (Lawrence) Minzie in Clarendon, Jamaica. From his early years in Jamaica to his life in the United States, Wilbert lived with a strong sense of responsibility, perseverance, and devotion to his family. He valued education, discipline, and hard work but also had a remarkable sense of humor.

Wilbert discovered his passion for cooking at an early age, developing a gift that would become an important part of his life. After completing his schooling in Jamaica, he began his culinary career at the prestigious Mr. Lee’s Restaurant and later worked with Grace Kitchens. His love for food eventually led him into entrepreneurship, as he opened his own grocery shop and restaurant in his local community that was known for his delicious jerk chicken. When he moved to the U.S., Wilbert continued his culinary career by excelling as both a chef and cook in various establishments — and also at home, where he enjoyed cooking for his family.

The first of his siblings to give his life to the Lord, Wilbert was a devoted man of God. Whenever he returned to his childhood church, he was often invited to sing and was affectionately recognized in the community as the Christian brother who played the guitar. To his nieces and nephews, many of whom lovingly called him “Uncle Gussie,” he was a source of laughter, encouragement, and wisdom. Wilbert leaves to cherish his precious memory his beloved wife, Paulette Y. Gordon Menzie; his children, Nicola A. Menzie and Mark E. Menzie; and his surviving siblings, Gloria Minzie, Festus Minzie, Paul Minzie, Suzan Minzie, Perline Minzie, Novel Minzie, and Minister Marie Minzie. He is also lovingly remembered by more than 50 nieces and nephews, extended family members, friends, church brethren, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Though Wilbert’s earthly journey has ended, his legacy will continue through the meals he prepared, the songs he sang, the laughter he shared, and the faith he demonstrated. Wilbert will be deeply missed. His family takes comfort in knowing that he is now at peace with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Family and friends are invited to honor and celebrate the life of Wilbert Menzie on Saturday, October 24, 2026, at Mission of Hope Worship Center in Orlando, Florida.

● Viewing: 9 a.m. – 11 a.m.

● Celebration of Life Service: 11:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

● Funeral: 3 p.m., Woodlawn Funeral Home & Memorial Park, 400 Woodlawn Cemetery Road, Gotha, Florida

● Repast: 3:30 p.m – 5:30 p.m., Woodlawn Funeral Home & Memorial Park