Ambitious, leader, talented, Smart, artistic, entertaining, sharp-dresser, neat, and creative are all words used to describe Winston Reid.

I am so incredibly grateful and happy that I can stand here today to tell you a little about the life of Winston. (Known to many as “Reidy”, Chef and Jawbone).

Born in Kingston, Jamaica, January 27,1942, Winston always had a presence. You just knew that he was somehow in-charge or he was the leader. His artistic skills exposed him to many art outlets in Jamaica, including Kingston College. His ambition led him to join a Swedish Vessel in the port harbor in Kingston, where his career with the cruise line began. During this time, Winston met his first wife, Audrey Abrahams- Reid, where he had his 3 children and later, his 4th.

After a short time with the small vessel, Winston was approached by a Royal Caribbean representative, who offered him a job on the spot. Winston was the only black crew member at that time, in 1971, and in no time was promoted from a general cook to Asst. executive chef and in less than 1 year, he became Executive Chef. His drive, talent and leadership abilities landed him the charge of all the Royal Caribbean’s Fleet as executive chef, where he implemented new menus and supervised the overall food and beverage department. Winston is the first executive chef to land a perfect score of 300, on a VIP voyage. This was a huge accomplishment and reveals how talented he truly was. He had a successful career with Royal Caribbean, where he was recognized with dozens of awards, medals and certifications.

Winston loved to entertain and loved to see people enjoying themselves. He cooked and prepared every bite with love, passion and a massive amount of attention to detail. He was a perfectionist! Anyone that knew Winston, knows that he loved to tell jokes. Whether you heard it 50 times or not!

Winston loved his family. Whether he was giving advice or just listening, he was always a voice of reason. He cared about people and many looked up to him. He loved to travel, laugh and had a caring heart.

I am humbled by his strength. He fought a long and hard fight. He will be deeply missed. He now joins his mother and father Christina and Hubert Reid. His beloved sisters Pearline, Daphne and Dorothy. His brother Carlton Reid. He leaves behind his children Donovan, Selena, Debbie and Natashia. Grandchildren, Brianna, Desmond and Tyler. His sister, Esmie Reid. His nieces; Yvonne, Dawn (Audrey), Pam (Marlene) Stanja, Simone, Annette, and Kayon and Nephews; Marvin, Audley, Devon, Leonard, Michael, and Laurel. In-laws Donovan Beckford, Yancy, Steve and Tamesa. A host of other family members and close friends.

Winston Reid. Gone, but never forgotten. May his soul rest in eternal Peace.