Handel Arbon Hackett

Handel was born on June 3, 1929 in Silver City, Panama. He was the last of six children of Beresford Hackett and Linda Druscilla Hillary Brown Hackett. He had 5 Siblings: Birdie, Buster, Clement, Clarence, and Olive, all of whom have preceded him in death.

In Panama, his father passed away at an early age. His mother then migrated to Jamaica with 5 of her children, as one died in Panama. Starting a new life in Jamaica at such a young age, under those distressful circumstances must have created many challenges for all of them.

Without the benefit of both parents his education was limited, so he tried his hand at many things. Handel was a fast learner and a diligent worker. He pursued several vocations to support himself and his family. He was a shoemaker, a tailor, and a tile setter. He even attempted a career in boxing, but that came to a screeching halt after he was injured in the ring.

Handel moved to the US in 1957 where he held a variety of jobs including hospital porter, taxi driver, bus driver and dispatcher.

He spent most of his career at New York Bus Tours as a bus driver and supervisor and retired in 2000. He relocated to Florida in 2002 for a more relaxed place to retire.

In 1954, Handel married Gwendolyn Barrett and they started a family together.

Handel Is survived by his children: Vivienne, Doreen, Gladston, Learie, Beverly, Carol, Rose, Darlene, Faith, Yvette, and Tamika; as well as 24 grandchildren, 37 great-grandchildren, 2 nephews, and 8 nieces.

Livestream: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XG7VnhwOs-E