Calvin F. Samuels

The pairing of Ruby Bromfield and Locksley Samuels produced a son named Calvin Fitzroy Samuels, otherwise affectionately known as Fitzie or Sammy. He was born on February, 24, 1942 in the town of Eldersly, Parish of St. Elizabeth in Jamaica, WI. Living with his grandmother, Clementine, during his formative years resulted in early exposure to literature, religion, and Jamaican culture. The environment stirred a thirst for knowledge and a pursuit of education that would ultimately become a signature of his impressive legacy. Clementine presided over the district's postal service and even allowed Calvin to participate by hand delivering telegrams to earn a small stipend. Magazines, literature, and other types of reading material surrounded Calvin on a daily basis giving him an early academic advantage and inclination. Known throughout his circle of family and friends as an intellect, it was no surprise to anyone when Calvin was awarded a full scholarship to attend the Kingston Technical High School. Following a path to studying engineering was only natural given his aptitude in Math and Science. Subsequently, he would attend the prestigious College of Arts, Science, and Technology (CAST) in Jamaica where he finished amongst the best in the class. Calvin began his professional journey by securing a management position at Nestle Jamaica Limited in Bog Walk, in the Parish of St. Catherine. It was during this time that he would meet the love of his life and queen, Marcia Bowie. The union produced two children, Heather and Hugh. Unknown at the time, the marriage would last an entire 53.5 years. Shortly thereafter in 1969 the family moved to the United States. Acclimating to life in a new country with minimal resources would prove difficult at first however team Calvin and Marcia were methodical as always and slowly but surely built the foundation for a rather comfortable lifestyle. They were very instrumental in the sponsorship of a number of relatives also seeking immigration to the US. Calvin would once again validate his brilliance by earning both a BS in Engineering (CCNY) as well as an MBA (Pace University). His formal education in Jamaica had more than prepared him for success at the very highest level of academia here in the US. Education now complete, he began his professional journey as a proud US citizen which included employment at Gibbs and Hill Inc., Exxon, and Metro North where he primarily functioned in the role of a Project Manager. His free time was spent coaching baseball, playing tennis, and otherwise observing and or participating in the athletic endeavors of his children. I can clearly recall many fun-filled family vacations, trips to Yankee stadium, and weekly picnics in Mohansic State Park during the summertime. Balance is the word that comes to mind when I reminisce about growing up. There was just enough of everything that was important. A balance of love, discipline, support, and guidance. Not perfect by any means, but the blueprint was there for likely success. Calvin was an avid lover of music, sports, and would occasionally provide DJ services for the party of a friend or family member. Just as he was a force on the tennis court, he could hold his own on the dance floor. As serious minded as he could be perceived, Calvin was known for his humor and the occasional burst of laughter. Besides being a dutiful husband and provider he was absolutely amazing in the role of a grandfather. He engaged and challenged all four of his grandsons often. His message to them was clear and consistent "Create a plan and be ready to execute it". The message was firm but always delivered in a loving context. According to Lorna, his sister, "Calvin epitomized everything you could ask for in a brother". Shortly after 911 Calvin and Marcia would choose Royal Palm Beach, Florida as their retirement home. They have resided comfortably here since 2004. With added free time Calvin could pursue his favorite past-times more regularly. Travel, tennis, and the occasional round of golf filled his schedule. There was a period of time where Sudoku was a part of the daily schedule. He was a regular at Myles' football and basketball games, always cheering him on loudly. He and Marcia travelled to South Bend to tailgate and watch Brandon play on the big stage at Notre Dame. Quite possibly his favorite thing may have been to pack his lunch and travel to the tennis competition at the US Open in New York City where he would watch his favorite players compete. Needless to say Calvin enjoyed his retirement and Marcia was his willing travelling companion. Illness would eventually slow him down on the tennis court but he played until his body would not allow. Calvin lived an exemplary life of intent and purpose. Selfishly we would have loved for you to be here with us on earth for much longer but you were called to rest. We love you Sammy! We are thankful to God for the time He shared you with us. Calvin will be sadly missed but he will live in our hearts forever. Calvin is survived by his wife Marcia and children Heather and Hugh; grandchildren Sean, Drew, Brandon, and Myles; siblings Errol, Dennis, Michael, and Lorna; in-laws Dorothy, Shernetty, Lillieth, Devon, Marie, Lauris, and Gary; nieces and nephews Megan, Traci, and Chris. Best friend and cousin Everton, bonus daughters Dionne and Peta-gay and a host of wonderful friends and extended family that were loved by Calvin.