Kelvie May Purcell-Reid

Kelvie (Veronica) May Purcell-Reid, affectionately known as “Momma”, “Ms. Cutie”, “Cutie" and “Mrs. Reid” was born on the 1stof September, 1935, to Doris Taylor and Ferdinand Purcell in Guys Hill in the parish of St. Catherine, Jamaica. It is important to say, right at the beginning of this tribute to her, that Kelvie was a deeply religious woman and felt the presence of God around her all the time. She might not have attended church as often as she wanted to, but she walked the walk of a true Christian. She gave the greatest gift that anyone could give to another person: LOVE. No matter how small or seemingly insignificant, she tried to give or say whatever she could to make that person feel special. When Momma would pray in the mornings, she prayed for not just her immediate family but for everybody including the neighbors. She was quite remarkable. Her nurturing spirit extended beyond her immediate family, as she was a pillar of support and guidance for countless lives. At the tender age of 10, Kelvie faced the loss of her mother whom she mourned for her entire life. That experience shaped life in a positive way. She was determined to give her children the love, care and education that were snatched away from her so early… and she did. She was a disciplinarian who was traditional in her values and everything had to be “just so” and in its place. Kelvie developed an inner strength and resilience that allowed her to clear the obstacles that she encountered in her life’s path. She pursued a career as a hairdresser and became known in her community for her flair and stylishness. She grew up believing in working hard at whatever the task. Anyone who knew her, knew that she found it hard to sit still and was always rushing to go get something done. Her famous words were “time is running and she must hurry”. She was always on the go. When she migrated to America in 1989, she worked as a Home Health Aide at V.I.P. Healthcare Agency specializing in helping disabled mothers care for their newborn babies and children, providing invaluable support and compassion. She was good at her job and was assigned to special cases. She continued working well beyond the age of retirement, which her family found distressing but which she thoroughly enjoyed. She loved the sense of total independence and accomplishment that working gave her. Kelvie was compassionate, warm, friendly and kind. She always had an encouraging word to give. She felt it was her duty to” live good” with people, especially her neighbors with whom she maintained long-running, loving and respectful relationships. As a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother and friend, she was always there to help, comfort and support, in any way she could. She was very integral in the raising of her grand and great grandchildren. Kelvie met and married her childhood friend, Lloyd Alphanso Reid “Lloydie” and they were together for over sixty years before he preceded her in death. Despite their ups and downs, they built a home filled with laughter, love and a sense of belonging. They could talk for hours about any and everything. Kelvie was known for her culinary talents. She could, as they say in Jamaica, “turn her hand and make fashion”. No matter if supplies were limited, when she would be done cooking, everyone would be satisfied. She loved to invite neighbors and friends to share in her delicious meals, creating a sense of togetherness and joy. Her home was always open, and her heart was always full, ready to provide comfort and care to anyone in need. Kelvie is survived by her daughters Noreen “Pam”, Patricia “Madgie” and Donna; grandchildren Reneé , Kimberly, Adrianne, Ecclesia, and Jordan; great-grandchildren Brandon, Jaden, Joslyn, Liam, Isabella, and Amelia; son-in-law Patrick and grand son-in-law Marville, other relatives and close friends all of whom will carry forward her legacy of love, kindness and compassion. Momma's wisdom, strength, and boundless love will be missed deeply but will be forever cherished in the hearts and minds of those who had the privilege of knowing her. Momma, your spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved you. Rest in peace.

Kelvie May Purcell-Reid

September 1, 1935 - May 30, 2024