On June 23, 1952, in the lush, rolling hills of Derry, Manchester, Jamaica, a special blessing

entered the world. Hector Lloyd Anderson Sr. was born to Samuel and Alease Anderson as the

long-awaited son after three daughters. His arrival filled the Anderson family with gratitude and

immeasurable joy. From the very beginning, he was cherished—and his mother lovingly knew

there was something extraordinary about her son.

Affectionately known as “Neva” and “Andy,” Hector’s life became a powerful testimony of faith,

resilience, and God’s grace.

As a young child, Hector was diagnosed with a congenital heart condition. At just three years

old, doctors told his mother there was nothing more they could do and advised her to prepare

for the unimaginable. But Alease’s faith was stronger than fear. She prayed fervently, believing

that God had the final word. Her prayers were answered—not by removing every obstacle, but

by giving Hector the precious gift of time. What doctors believed would be only a few years

became a beautiful journey spanning 74 remarkable years.

His life reminds us that miracles are not always sudden—they are sometimes lived one day at a

time.

Growing up in Jamaica, Hector attended Comfort Hall All Age School, where he developed values

that stayed with him throughout his life: respect, perseverance, hard work, and loyalty. After

leaving school, he moved to Old Harbor, where he apprenticed under the respected mechanic

Mr. McKenzie. With determination and a willingness to learn, Hector mastered his trade and

later earned his Commercial Driver’s License, creating opportunities through honest work and

dedication.

While Hector appreciated hard work, he truly knew how to enjoy life.

If you ever visited him, chances are the music was already playing. The unmistakable sounds of

Beres Hammond, Yellowman, Glen Washington, Bob Marley, Jacob Miller, King Tubby, Delroy

Wilson, Dennis Brown, Gregory Issacs, The Skatalites, Alton Ellis, and many other reggae greats

filled his home and his heart. Music wasn’t simply entertainment—it was part of who he was. It

brought people together, sparked conversations, and often became the soundtrack to treasured

moments shared with family and friends.

And, of course, no good gathering was complete without good Jamaican food. Hector never

turned down a hearty plate of bulgur and cow skin, favorites that reminded him of home and

the rich traditions that shaped him.

He enjoyed relaxing with family and friends, listening to music, sharing a good drink, and

creating moments filled with laughter. Hector had an infectious sense of humor and was known

for his quick wit. He could turn an ordinary conversation into an unforgettable story, often

recalling family history with astonishing detail. His long-term memory was legendary, and with

perfect timing, he delighted everyone by uncovering long-buried family stories and secrets that

left the room roaring with laughter. Whether every detail was exactly as others remembered it

hardly mattered—when Andy told the story, everyone listened.

In 1983, love found another beautiful chapter in Hector’s life when he married Veronica, after

the two were introduced by family friend Calvin Clark. Together they built a loving, blended

family grounded in commitment, support, and love.

Hector migrated to the USA in 1985 to join his wife. While in USA, Hector worked in New Jersey

at an antique art restoration company. There he developed a yen for art and improved his

painting skills. He later changed his employment and worked as a custodial engineer at the

Workman’s Circle Multi Care Center in the Bronx, New York until his retirement. He served the

institution with devotion, love and respect.

He leaves behind five beloved children: Janice Anderson Pinnock (Crofton), Hector Anderson Jr.

(Kelly), Mark Anderson, Ricardo Anderson (Barbara), and Neil Tomlinson (Natalie). His

greatest joy continued through his many grandchildren, each of whom became part of the

legacy he leaves behind.

Family was the heartbeat of Hector’s life. Whether sharing a meal, telling stories, listening to

reggae, or simply enjoying each other’s company, he treasured the moments spent with those

he loved.

He is lovingly remembered by his siblings: Norma “Bibbs” Facey, Curine “Joy” Brown, Adeline

“Happy” Bryan (Earl), Ionie “Sandra” Anderson, Ivel James (Elias), Horace “Tony” Anderson

(Hyacinth), Maxine “Peaches” Anderson, Petal “Muffet” Anderson, Alma “Dainty” Anderson,

Jacqueline “Girlie” Anderson, Jefton Anderson, Paul Anderson, and Peter Anderson, along with

a large circle of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and lifelong friends whose lives were

enriched by his love and laughter.

He now joins in eternal rest his beloved parents, Samuel and Alease Anderson, and his siblings

Owen “Jack” Mason, Wilfred “Bredda” Anderson, Doreen “Precious” Anderson, Renford

“Rennie” Anderson, Rupert “Rupie” Anderson, and Jennifer Anderson-Robinson.

As his earthly journey drew to a close, Hector demonstrated the same quiet strength and

unwavering faith that had carried him throughout his life. Even while facing health challenges,

he remained calm, light-hearted, and at peace.

During his final conversations with his sisters, Adeline and Ivel, he offered words that perfectly

captured the foundation of his life:

“I’m not worried about anything. Everything is in God’s hands, and whatever God says is fine

with me.”

Those simple yet profound words reflected a man whose trust in God never wavered. From the

miracle of his childhood to the many blessings of family, friendship, and a life well lived, Hector

understood that every chapter of his journey was guided by God’s grace. His peaceful

acceptance brought comfort to those who loved him and remains a lasting testimony of his

faith.

Today, we gather not only to mourn Hector’s passing but to celebrate a life that was richly lived.

We celebrate a man whose story was one of resilience, whose faith carried him through life’s

challenges, whose laughter filled every room, whose music brought joy, and whose love of

family never wavered.

As Jamaicans often remind us, we honor our loved ones not only with tears but with

thanksgiving—with stories that make us laugh, songs that make us smile, and memories that

remind us how blessed we were to have shared this journey together.

So today, let the music play. Share another story. Laugh a little louder. Hug your family a little

longer. Prepare a favorite meal. Whisper a prayer in gratitude. And remember Hector the way

he would have wanted—to celebrate life, cherish family, and give thanks for every blessing.

Though his earthly journey has ended, his spirit, his laughter, and the love he gave will remain

forever woven into the hearts of all who knew him.

Until we meet again, rest well, Neva.

Rest well, Andy.