Rupert Owen Barrett

Rupert Owen Barrett was the only child of Gladys Maude and Allan James Barrett. He was born in Cuba January 17, 1934. They migrated to Jamaica in 1955 and he spent his formative years there. He enlisted in the Army where he was an adept manager with demonstrable administrative skills. His early adult years saw him become involved with radio, evolving into a popular radio personality. During this time, he began to hone his skills as an entertaining storyteller which, coupled with a dry wit, made him a sought-after Master of Ceremonies for many functions later in his life. Rupert migrated to the United States in the 1950s. He was smart, ambitious, and goal-oriented. He completed his bachelor’s degree and embarked on a career in financial management, which included sales of life insurance, tax accounting, and investments. During his over 20 years at New York Life Insurance Company, he received many awards attesting to his productivity and proficiency including: the National Sales Achievement Award, Persistency Award, Health Insurance Leader Award, Star Club, and Chairman’s Circle awards. Rupert enjoyed helping people to succeed. In the latter part of his career, he focused his work on tax accounting and financial planning. Many of his clients became close friends and he maintained a successful business into his mid 80’s. He married Norma Verley at midlife and acquired an instant family with her three children. He and Norma had a loving marriage, lasting 31 years. They shared a love of God, seafood, cruising, and a competitive game of Scrabble, at which they were both skilled. Rupert loved many genres of music, to dance, to drink coffee, and to eat Cherry Garcia ice cream. He loved telling jokes and enjoying good food with good friends. He was honest, responsible, hard-working, and kind. As he got older, he continuously cared for others and displayed a joy and humor that gained him admirers and fans to the end of his blessed life. Rupert is survived by his son Michael, and step-family: son, Brian Verley, daughters Janice Verley and Sandra Verley Reid, son-in-law Aaron Reid, daughter-in-law Elvia Verley, grandchildren Mark Reid, Sierra Reid, Emily Verley and Kayla Verley; goddaughter Paula Darden and many loving friends. He is forever remembered and loved.

Rupert Owen Barrett

January 17, 1934 - July 17, 2024