Leo Clement

Leo Clement, better known as Uncle Leo, Leroy, and Corporal loved being around people and was a natural entertainer.  We could certainly understand why, as he was the 8th child of 13 children.  His deceased parents James and Dorcas Clement gave birth to Leo on May 22, 1937 in Delford, Tobago.    

Growing up in Tobago, Leo was surrounded by many beautiful beaches and lots of fishing harbors.  As a young boy, Leo developed a love for the sea.  He loved to go swimming and fishing.  Fishing was his passion and so he learned how to fish at an early age.  We have listened to many of his fishing expeditions and adventures over the years.  Up until his passing, a fish dish was always his favorite.

Leo lived an interesting life.  His work journey began at age 19 when he relocated to Trinidad and temporarily worked with horses.  As a go getter, the opportunity arose for him to work at one of Trinidad’s largest Jewelry stores - Y Delima Jewelers.  He was a dedicated employee and retained his position until migrating to America in 1971.  While living in Trinidad and before migrating to America, Leo had two children – Andrea and Leo, Jr. 

When Leo arrived in America, his 1st job was with a pharmaceutical company where he worked as a lab technician making vitamins.  However,  in 1980, his ambition propelled him to seek employment at the Brooklyn Navy Yard until the company closed.

Throughout his work career, Leo was a loyal and committed employee.  He was also an excellent craftsman and was hired by Morningside Heights Housing Corporation as a Maintenance worker until he retired in 2006.  Leo enjoyed and developed great relationships along his career journey.

Without a doubt, Leo was a family man.  In 1973, he met the love of his life Sylvia. They got married in September 1974.  He became the proud stepfather to Dawn, Cleveland and Dawnette. Then in 1978, Leo and Sylvia gave birth to their last child LesleyAnn. Leo cared and loved all (6) of his children unconditionally. 

As mentioned, the core of Leo’s being was family.  Out of that love, his sister, brother and close family friend came together and purchased an eight-family apartment building which was known to everyone as 707 St. John’s Place. 

Leo claimed the basement as his sanctuary, man cave, fix it center, home away from home, his staycation spot.  It was the hub for all who knew him.  If you wanted to hear good music and to be entertained, it was by Leo - “in the basement”.  That is where he hung out, chilled out and limed for hours with his buddies.  The basement stories can be endless as Leo and the basement was one of the same.  Although he lived in Virginia, 707 St. John’s Place and the basement never left his heart.

Leo found joy in spending time with family and friends.  Above all, he was a loving and caring individual who certainly enjoyed life.  Leo has left a legacy that we all can be proud of.  He leaves to continue his legacy, wife -  Sylvia; children: Dawn, Cleveland, Andrea, Leo Jr., Dawnette and LesleyAnn.  Grandchildren: Cameron, Anyia, Darius, Kyle, Cristian, and Aaron; Sister - Antionette; Brothers: Allen, Steve and Claude; sons-in-law- Charles (Dawnette), Marlon (Dawn), Kurn (LesleyAnn), daughter-in-law - Damaris (Cleveland); as well as numerous nieces and nephews; sisters-in-law; brother-in-law, cousins and friends.

It was Leo’s friendly personality that connected and united us.  It is through his example that we can make a difference in this world.  As Leo would say  “Peace and Love, Love and Peace.”