Nelson L Barrett

Dedicated to My Family and Friends:

Forget Me Not ............

Now that I close my eyes for the last time, I no longer see the light of day ...

But I still envision a bright future that has only just begun.

One journey ends only for the sake of starting another,

And I do not shed a tear at the end.

Tears are not necessary; for I am happy ... as my next journey begins.

I know my sudden passing shocked all of you. I did not want to leave you this way, and I will miss all of you very much. I want you to know that I am at rest now. Please do not worry. I want you to find comfort in knowing that when the gates of Heaven swing open, I will be able to walk right in. Be of good cheer and know I am okay resting in my Father's arm. I leave with you my smile and most of all, my laughter. May it be uplifting to you and dissolve your pain. As we celebrate my life today, take a moment to reflect on the wonderful times we've shared.

The story of Nelson Lloyd Barrett Sr. is one of a life well lived. Nelson was born in Big Bridge Westmoreland, Jamaica to the late Mary and Benjamin Barrett on January 30, 1950. Nelson attended Savanna La Mar Primary School in Westmoreland, Jamaica. As a young man, he displayed an incredible aptitude for hard work. During his childhood he worked in the rice fields to help his father. Nelson gave his life to Jesus at an early age at the Big Bridge Presbyterian Church in Westmoreland, Jamaica. His commitment to his family, his Maker and friends was a guiding principle of his life. His father was an avid fisherman and was a great influence in his life. It is through his father that Nelson developed a love of fishing and farming.

Nelson was very ambitious. In the late 1960s, at a very young age, Nelson migrated to Nassau, Bahamas to pursue a better life for himself. He worked as a mason at Lynden Pindling International Airport. He was a vibrant and handsome young man with a contagious laugh. He had a life-long determination to be successful and subsequently earned his way as an honorable seaman for eighteen years on board the S.S. Emerald Seas where he earned numerous awards for his outstanding service and hard work. Through his endeavors he was able to help many family members and friends secure employment on the ship. He married Sonianna Bennie in 1971 and had two beautiful children, Michelle and Nelson Jr, who made him a very happy and proud father. Nelson lived for his children and was an excellent provider. He was an amazing husband and provider. He was dedicated to being a wonderful father and spent his life trying to make his children happy.

In 1981, Nelson extended his dreams in a new home in Miami, Florida where he continued to exhibit his hard work and dedication. Nelson worked at Treasure Island Elementary, in Dade County as a lead custodian for 22 years. During his tenure he interacted with many teachers, administrators, staff and students. Nelson was loved by all because of his charisma and smile. They loved his work ethics, commitment and dedication to making sure that all the staff was taken care of. The students always remembered him during staff appreciation. Nelson had many letters from students that he treasured. Even though he worked full time, Nelson also worked part-time as a long shore man for many years and also at El Palacio hotel as a banquet hall captain.

Nelson was a fisherman par excellence! He was respected for his ability, patience and dedication to this sport. His favorite past time was going fishing with his brothers, cousin and or whoever was available. His joy and passion for fishing was contagious and he passed this love on to his grandchildren.

No matter what the role he played Nelson did it well. He was an excellent son, great son-in-law, awesome grandfather, caring friend, loving neighbor, a dedicated brother, outstanding father-in-law and good brother-in-law. He loved and cared for everyone he came in contact with. His boundless love and warm spirit was a blessing to anyone whom he encountered.

On October 29, 2014, the Lord called his beloved son home where he will rest in paradise for all eternity.

Nelson Lloyd Barrett Sr will forever be remembered for his outstanding work, determination, strength, passion and his undying compassion for all.

Don't weep at my grave,

for I am not there,

I've a date with

God to fish with flair.

I'll be fishing with Sonan in the sunshine,

Wild and free

So please do not be sad for me.

I'll be playing tag with my papa and mama in the wind

And singing with Denny a glorious hymn.

I'll be talking with Mama Lor, a pleasure it'll be,

all while I am waiting for thee.

May his soul rest in peace, and life perpetual shine upon him.

He leaves to mourn his passing, his devoted children, Michelle Rampasard and Nelson Barrett Jr.; one daughter-in-law, Lesheryl Barrett; one son-in-law, Aston Rampasard Jr.; three brothers, Ronald Barrett, Donald Barrett and Charles Barrett; three sisters, Marion Dussie, Ingrid Lowe, and Ranchanara Wong; three sister-in-laws, Jacinta Barrett, Vivian Barrett, Hazel Barrett; two brother-in-laws; Henry Lowe and Winston Wong; grandchildren, Kaelan Rampasard, Nicolas