LIFE REFLECTIONS

Shirley Hannah Blackstock, also known as “Olive”, was born on September 28, 1963, to Lurlene Sampson and Benjamin Blackstock in Richmond Park, Clarendon, Jamaica. Olive was the sixth child of thirteen children. She attended Richmond Park Primary School, followed by attendance at Lennon High School. As a young girl and throughout adulthood, she was known as a strong-minded, straightforward, courageous, free-spirited, generous, and independent individual. She was the mother of three children: Ann-Marie, Nicholas, and Samieca. In pursuit of creating a better Olive migrated from Clarendon to Kingston, followed by a move to England, where she resided for a little over a year. The time spent apart from her children proved to be challenging, and with no hesitation, she returned to Jamaica. Not long after returning, Olive applied for a visa to the United States. In 1995, Olive migrated to Florida, where she would spend the next twenty-seven years of her life building her legacy.

Before finding her footing in the states, Olive worked hard and later received her license as a Home Health Aide and continued in the field for over two decades. She had incredible drive and tenacity and never took life too seriously; in an attempt to better herself, Olive was willing to take risks and started several business ventures. She often worked two jobs hoping to retire early and return to Jamaica. Olive believed in making it to the top alone; she always wanted to take friends and family with her and was willing to lend a helping hand, whether financially or otherwise.

Olive was a devoted member of the Vineyard 7th Day Church of God, where she served as an usher. She enjoyed traveling, fine dining, cooking, and spending time with loved ones. Her down-to-earth and easy-going personality made it easy to connect with her. She was a fighter, surviving her first battle with breast cancer. She moved through life, setting goals for herself, and her goals did not go unmet. From a young age, Olive dreamed of building a beautiful home in Mandeville, JA. She accomplished her goal in 2008.

In 2021, Olive planned to return to Mandeville, Jamaica, for retirement. Unfortunately, this plan would not come to fruition due to falling ill. On June 21, 2022, Olive succumbed to her illness. Her name will be remembered and lived on by her children, grandchildren, brothers, sisters, nieces, nephews, and friends.