Lauford Gordon

The Lord giveth and the Lord hath taken away, blessed be the name of the Lord.

Lauford Gordon affectionately called Crim was born on August 1, 1946, in Troja, St. Catherine in Jamaica. He was the 7th of nine children born to his mother Myrtle Gordon. His father affectionately called Mass Tip was a well beloved and respected man in the community. Lauford attended the Troja All-Age School. 

He later spent one year at the Cobblar Youth Skill Training School. There he learnt tailoring which became the main source of his income for many years. After a while he specialized in making, selling, and installing awnings for houses and even businesses. As recently as 6 weeks ago, he spoke of his great appreciation for the Cobblar Training School. He said to me that he not only learned the skill of tailoring, but he learnt so much more. He learnt things like discipline, respect, organization, punctuality, and so much more.

Lauford created his own business by buying and selling fabric to make men pants and suits. He actually drove from district to district to do his selling. He had a way of selling you things he did not even want. It was said that he had a sweet mouth. He was very charming and convincing. No wonder he had so many women in his life. He was also very meticulous and neat in any project that he takes on.

There was also a time when he went into the taxi business transporting passengers from six miles in St. Catherine to Cross Roads, Half Way Tree and Down Town. Lauford tried everything he needed to in order to make an honest living. 

In 1985 Lauford migrated to the United States of America where he started a new chapter of his life. He settled in Mount Vernon, NY with his wife Carmen. He worked at several business places and stores where he gained a good reputation as a reliable and respected worker.

Lauford was always a joyful person. He was funny and witty. He created jokes out of every situation he finds himself. Even a week ago while lying in the hospital bed he was making jokes about everything there. He said that in the early part of the morning while he was enjoying his sleep, they woke him to give him medicine and take vitals without asking him before. I believe if he had the opportunity he would have become a famous comedian. I never talk to him whether on the phone or in person and don’t walk away without a big smile on my face. That memory I will miss and cherish for a long time.

After a very brief illness, God saw it fit to take Lauford home. On Saturday, October 12, 2024, he passed away. 

He left behind his wife Carmen. Sons: Laidley and Antonio. Daughters: Marcia, Matzie, Sandy,  Antoinette, Latoya, and Opal. Sisters: Letsey and Louise. Grandchildren 14; Great-Grandchildren 9; Stepchildren: Maria, Andrew, and Debbie and also his former wife Zeta Gordon. He also left behind a host of cousins, other family members and friends.

May his soul rest in peace and may light perpetually shine upon him.

A celebration of Lauford Gordon’s life will take place at the Pelham Funeral Home located at 64 Lincoln Ave., Pelham NY on Friday, October 18, 2024, between the hours of 4:00 PM and 8:00 PM. Burial will be held on Saturday October 19, 2024 at 10:30 AM at Greenwood Union Cemetery, located at 215 North St, Rye NY 10580.