March 15, 1943, Oh what a day of rejoicing it truly was, for the world was blessed with the birth of Linda Joyce Lawrence to Cleveland Lawrence and Vita Michels. Linda was born in St Catherine, Jamaica, W.I. and raised in Portland where she completed her education. She later moved to Kingston Jamaica where she was employed as a manager of several food and beverage establishments.
Linda migrated to Miami Florida to live the American dream. Shortly after her arrival, she furthered her education and received a degree in Mental Health Services. Her degree was well utilized when she began her tenure and Jackson Health Systems in the mental health hospital. Because of her gregarious and outgoing personality mixed with her nurturing spirit, she was given the affectionate title of “momma Linda” which she was called by both staff and patients alike. She remained faithful to her post and Jackson for 33 years forming lifelong friendships and alliances.
Linda created a beautiful living legacy of family, they include 6 children Oswald (Monte), Donald (Danny), Shirley (Pinky who proceeded her to death), Shailon (Sha Sha), Ansell and Eddie. From these beginnings came 21 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren. She also leaves behind 3 sisters: Doxy McGhann-Smith, Viola Lawrence (Valerie) and Marcia King (Lorna), a host of nieces, nephews, other family members and a myriad of friends.
Linda left us, after living a vibrant life and fighting a tireless fight with Parkinson’s. Though she may have left us to join the Father, she did not leave us empty for she was known as a giver; a giver of her time, a giver of her wisdom, and above all a giver of her love. As a testament of her humble spirit, are all the tokens of love she has collected over the years from friends, colleagues, and family. Today and everyday moving forward we will honor her by thinking of others and maintaining a bright disposition despite challenges. We know we were loved.
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