Neville Keith Barclay's Obituary
Neville “Keith” Barclay, commonly referred to by friends and family as “Keith” or Mr. B” was born on March 27th, 1938 in Kingston, Jamaica, West Indies. He was the last of 11 children to Rachel Brown and Solomon Barclay. He grew up with his siblings Whilhel, Icilda & Solomon, Flori, Ethyln, Edna, Hazel, Slyvester, Estella, and Slyvia. He attended Lawrence Tavern Primary School, and worked as a master builder providing a large contribution to the construction industry in Jamaica. His contributions included construction of several residential and commercial buildings such as Abbey Court, the first townhouse style building in Jamaica, assisting with construction of the first KFC in on the island along with construction of Longbay guest house to name a few, until he migrated to the United States.
Keith met the love of his life Rachael Hall in 1972, married her in 1974 and remained married for 50 years until his passing on July 8th, 2024.
In 1981 he and his family migrated to Milwaukee, Wisconsin. In 1982 they moved to Queens, New York where he was self-employed as a home improvement contractor for over 25 years until he retired and moved to Covington, Georgia in 2008.
At 86 years old, Keith was a beacon of love, energy, with unwavering values that shaped not only his life but the lives of everyone fortunate enough to know him.
He and his wife crafted a partnership that was a testament to true commitment. Together, they built a family that flourished with joy, laughter, and warmth. His two daughters; Sophia Mallett (preceded by death); Camiel Rowe and grandchildren; Azhane & Dejohn Rowe were the pride of his life. He approached life with a heart full of love and wisdom that guided them through their journey. He taught them the importance of hard work, integrity, kindness, friendship, and resilience—values he lived by every day.
His zest for life was infectious. Whether it was spending the day at Belmont or Aqueduct race track, listening to his favorite reggae artists Berris Hammond or Gregory Issacs, to playing Dominoes, sharing stories about his youth in Jamaica, politics, the latest current events, or simply enjoying the beauty of nature, he found joy in the little things. His laughter could light up a room, and his energy inspired those around him to embrace life fully.
He was a man of strong morals and principles. He believed in doing what was right, even when it was difficult or when no one was looking. His integrity earned him the respect and admiration of friends, family, and colleagues alike. He showed us all the importance of standing up for one’s beliefs and treating others with compassion and respect.
Neville leaves his love and memories to be cherished by his wife, Rachael Barclay, caring daughter, Camiel Rowe, loving grandchildren; Azhane and Dejohn Rowe, Sisters Edna Larson, Estella Holness and hosts of nieces, nephews, grand nieces, grand nephews, cousins and friends.
As we remember him today, let us carry forward the lessons he imparted. Let us honor his legacy by living with the same enthusiasm, love, and integrity that he embodied. Though he may no longer walk among us, his spirit will forever remain in our hearts and in the values, he instilled in us.
His life was a gift, and his memory will be forever cherished. Gone but never forgotten!
What’s your fondest memory of Neville?
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