He was the last of the children born to Georgiana and Daniel Powell. The wash belly, as we say in Jamaica. Mrs. Georgiana had eleven children; nine with Daniel. George was playfully called Nursey.
Living in the countryside of Westmoreland, he had what can be described as a colorful childhood. He left Westmoreland and relocated in Montego Bay in his early twenties for a better life. He was not a man of many friends but those he chose to be his friends were life-long friends, Black Gee and Green come to my mind. George was a man of many talents. He was a tailor, bus driver, waiter, bartender and cab driver. Let’s just say he was Jamaican. He loved music in a very distinct fashion. Dennis Brown over Bob Marley. Smooth jazz over straight ahead jazz and he celebrated the message in the music. He had me understand if you want to hear true rebel music, listen to Peter Tosh. George was an excellent provider, and was supremely ambitious. I watched him take a grocery store from an idea to a thriving brick and mortar establishment…so yea add business owner to that list I just mentioned. He had a very green thumb...our yard was filled with fruit trees. And he was a great cook. He was very private and for the most part a quiet man. We will miss him.
He had three sons, Steve, Ron and Omar. I can tell you he served as a father figure to many more. Always encouraging, tell you to try, because hey….you never know!! His motto was “What is to be must be”.
He was always well dressed and used to say, “Even if your pocket is empty, make sure your clothes are clean and your situation is not visible just by your appearance.” He had a wicked sense of humor and if you were the butt of his joke I would have to put you on suicide watch. I remember one day a fairly thin girl came to the shop we had in Norwood and inquired about me. My Dad waited until men in the neighborhood were in the shop to mention to me that *toothpick* was interested in me. I’m like who? He had named her toothpick due to her slight stature and all the men were now laughing, asking me how long were toothpick and I an item…..true story! I could go on I promise you, but let’s just say, if you knew him you loved him. Not perfect but very human.
George was survived by his Sister Lyn Powell, but she passed eight days later, three sons, Steve Williams , Ron and Omar Powell. Daughter Allecia Williams, Grand Children: Christine Williams, Christina Williams, Kareem Williams, Lance Williams, Monice Williams, Jordan Powell, Hailey Powell and Caleb Allen-Powell. Nephews, Nieces and other relatives. We love and honor you and as they say in Jamaica….Walk Good Dad!
The family will receive friends at Whitley Garner at Rosehaven Funeral Home on Saturday, November 5, 2022 from 12:00 until 2:00 p.m.
The Funeral Service will follow at 2:00 p.m. with Pastor Lenny Beresford officiating. In accordance with his wishes, he will be cremated after the service.
Thoughts and condolences to the family may be shared online at www.whitleygarner.com.
Whitley-Garner at Rosehaven Funeral Home is honored to be entrusted with the services of Alvin Lawrence Powell.
