Melcedes O’Connor

Melcedes O'Oconner, known by her friends and family as Mel, was born on April 2, 1937 in Jamaica. Her early life was filled with hardships familiar to most people living in Jamaica during the 1950’s and 1960’s. As those familiar could attest, Mel was able to overcome those hardships and live a vibrant and productive life. She was the mother of 4 children. Although her 2nd child tragically passed as an infant, the other 3, Victorine, Devon and Derrick, were able to grow up and live their lives as God intended. Mel also had 5 grandchildren, David, Natoya, Sharnah, Tiesha (Amelie) and Shanika. She also had 4 great grandchildren. Her ability to persevere, regardless of the obstacle, is a trait that served Mel time and time again throughout her life.

As a young adult, Mel worked at Eventide Home taking care of the elderly. This was fitting because taking care of others was one of her special callings. The other calling was lending a helping hand. Throughout her life there were countless examples or her taking care of sick loveones, lending money to friends and family, helping others obtain their Green Card status and opening her home to friends in need of a place to stay. Her ability to connect and empathize with others was uncanny. With regards to her friends and family, she always did what she could and gave what she had. It’s also the reason why she had friendships that lasted her lifetime and why she will so dearly be missed.

Mel migrated to the Bronx, New York in the mid 80’s through the assistance of her eldest son Devon. Living in New York, she worked as a home health aide, similar towhat she did in Jamaica. Shortly after arriving, she lived on her own as she was fiercely independent, always ensuring she was a burden to no one. That’s the thing about New York City, if you can make it there, you can make it anywhere and make it she did. While living in New York, not only was she able to purchase a home back in Jamaica, she was also able to help her son Devon purchase a home in the Bronx. Through her hard work and unwavering strength, both homes are still held within the family today.

Mel loved her children and grandchildren dearly. She took care of her son Devon during his illness. After his passing, she took on the role of raising Devon’s son David, who was 16 years old the time. She also took on the task of managing the home left by Devon in which she and David lived. Mel did everything she could to ensure that David’s life, post his father’s death, was as stable as possible. In the mist of massive uncertainty, she ensured that the mortgage was paid on time, there was plenty of food in the fridge and a hot meal was always on the table. David’s success is a testament to Mel’s strength and perseverance.

Upon her passing, Mel was 87 years old, 3 months from her 88th birthday. Anyone who knows her life’s story would agree that Mel was someone who rose above life’s challenges and created something beautiful. She was not someone to be defined by her trials and tribulations, but someone who continuously overcame them. Her legacy of selflessness, kindness and dedication to her family and friends will live on in the hearts of all those she touched.

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