Michael Horatio Kerr's Obituary
Michael Horatio Kerr was born in Montego Bay, Jamaica on November 17, 1936 to his loving parents Albert Kerr and Violet Kerr (nee Forbes). He was the third of 11 children: Silvera, Rhuel, Carmen, Oswald, Prudence/Slater, Ronald, Verona, Horace, Joan and Jean.
He was married to Dulcie Streete – Kerr on August 19, 1962 and that union brought forth a blended family with the following children: Thomas “Jah-T” Hue, Desmond Lee Hue, Robert “Denny” Kerr, Shauna Kerr-Vaz, Michael “Andrew” Kerr, Audley Kerr, Grace Kerr, Gahnies Kerr-Campbell, Rhonda Kerr-Cunningham and Chaneese Kerr.
In his early years in Jamaica, he worked as a carpenter; however, he was best known for his career as a lifeguard. He loved the beach and often shared stories of the lives he helped save and the many people he met throughout the years. He also found great joy in teaching others how to swim. It came naturally to him, and he had a special gift for helping people feel safe and confident in the water.
He moved to the USA in 1984 to live in Queens, New York. In 1991, he moved to Florida to live with his sister Slater and later transitioned to live with his son Audley and family for 34 years. He loved driving across the United States to visit family in different areas. For many years, he also traveled back and forth to Jamaica, where he cherished spending time with loved ones and staying connected to his roots.
He was preceded in death by the following: his parents, Albert and Violet Kerr; his brothers: Rhuel, Oswald, Ronald, and Horace; his sisters: Verona, Carmen and Slater; his sons: Denny and Jah-T; his daughter: Shauna; as well as his grandson: David Kerr.
Michael leaves to cherish his memory, his loving family: one brother, Silvera; two sisters, Joan and Jean; three sons, Desmond, Andrew, and Audley; four daughters, Grace, Gahnies, Rhonda, and Chaneese; 24 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren, to the family’s knowledge; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and dear friends.
Michael will be deeply missed, but his love, laughter, and the memories he created will remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. Though he is no longer with us, his spirit and the impact he made on the lives of others will never be forgotten.
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