Sydney L. Campbell a.k.a. “Lester” was born on September 18, 1923 to parents George and Estella Campbell in the village of Robins Hall in Manchester, Jamaica, West Indies. He was the last of five children, however he considered himself as a “big brother” to his nephew, Ernest Ranglin.
Sydney’s early childhood was spent in Devon, Manchester where he received his primary and most of his secondary education. He followed his dream to the big city of Kingston where he worked as an apprentice with D. Henderson and Co. He was someone who always thought of his future so he started his quest to travel to the USA during his early 20’s . During this time, he became a father and fatherhood became his number one priority following the birth of his adorable baby girl, Claire. He worked hard to create a stable environment and loving home for Clair so he entrusted her to the care of his older sister Hortense and his mother, Estella. After immigrating to the US in the 1950’s he met and married Roxie Rouse where they created a home together in Brooklyn, NY. Over the years, Sydney worked in various jobs which culminated into a 25 year tenure as the supervisor of the Custodial and Engineering department at Kings County Hospital. Sydney retired from Kings Country hospital on August 28, 1990.
One of the things that Sydney is most remembered for was his big and loving heart. He and wife Roxie became parents to Helena and Karen Campbell and took on a parenting role to many other kids in their community. Karen and Helena were the apples of Sydney’s eyes along with his first daughter, Claire. Sydney was known as a community advocate and was lovingly referred to as the Barbecue King or just “Dad”. Everyone looked forward to his summer cookouts which were shared with family, friends and neighbors. He loved music and found solace in strumming his guitar or playing the piano. His baritone voice resonated in the choir at Unity East Church Center where he was a member for many years. He also served on the board at Unity East Church and was a founding member of the Men’s Group.
Sydney L. Campbell was a devoted and loving father to his three daughters, husband to the late Roxie, grandfather, great grandfather, brother, uncle and friend. He was preceded in death by sisters Joyce and Verna and brothers Percy and Otto Sydney. He is survived by his one hundred year old sister, Hortense (aka Hartel); his daughters: Claire, Helena and Karen; stepson, Nephus Rouse; grandchildren: Patrick, Anthony, Jackie, Brianna, Ebony, David, Kamal and Ashley; great grandchildren: Nia, Malaika, Suriya, Lauren, Josiah, Ariel and Sydney; nephews: Lushington Sydney and Ernest Ranglin; his special niece, Rosalyn and grandniece, Erna Joy; grandnephews: Mikey, David and Johnny; grand son-in-law C.D. Glin, Jr. and son-in-law, Chester Hardware, grandnephews, and a host of other relatives and close friends.
Sydney Campbell: Dad, Granddad, uncle, loving brother and friend-----you will be greatly missed. We, your family and friends take comfort in the truth that you are in a better place. You will always have a special place in our hearts and will be a greatly treasured in our memories. Rest in eternal peace.