Obituary of Olive Leola Phyllis Homer
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Olive Leola Phyllis Homer
Olive Leola Phyllis Homer was born in Manzanilla, Trinidad on August 31, 1927. Her mother died when she was 13 years old leaving her and her sister Amoy to be raised by her Grandma Goody ( Margaret Scott).
Despite many challenges she persevered to enjoy a long life. She had six children of her own (Aldrick, Linda, Glenda, Maureen, Jenny and Steve) and adopted her niece Barbara at 3 months old who grew up as an integral part of the family. It was difficult raising seven kids but believe it or not we never went hungry, naked or barefoot. As a matter of fact, we always looked spiffy in our new custom-made clothes since mom was an excellent seamstress.
She moved to St Thomas, Virgin Islands with her family about 1970. She worked tirelessly to maintain her family and at the same time financing three kids in college while on a saleslady salary. Talk about making ends meet!
She was a beloved granny. Felt like it was her duty to cook. She baked bread and sweetbread from scratch. Even made roti too! Didn’t need a spatula to turn the hamburger; used her bare hands to pick them up and flip them over. She spoiled those grandkids (especially Derryck and Rishard…what picky eaters!) giving them whatever they felt like eating.
We went to church every Saturday where she made quite a few friends. Even though she hadn’t been there in about five years they always inquire about her health status. One lady is forever saying “Give mommy a big kiss”.
After she became ill she started to forget things. Linda, Ralph and I saw her everyday but yet she would stare at us with that puzzled look of not recognizing us. That was even way before we went in there with a mask on! Despite all of this she ALWAYS remembered HER name!
She will be missed tremendously…her scolding, her repeated threats of punishment, her praises, her stubbornness but most of all her caring attitude. She was so proud of her kids, grandkids and great-grandkids. She was a beautiful, simple (not simple-minded) lady who did not wear makeup or wanted fancy clothes or jewelry. Tried to give her a Coach bag once….
Mom, Sister, Aunty, Grandma, Granny, Friend, Liv, Miss Olive…
Much love Mom and May You Rest in the Peace of Our Lord