Mrs Avril Mae Thomas

AVRIL FORRESTER THOMAS

“Sister Kaye” • “Auntie Kaye”

April 15, 1944 — April 26, 2026

Our beloved Avril, a true daughter of Jamaica, went home to be with the Lord on April 26, 2026. Born in Williamsfield, Westmoreland, Jamaica. She was a natural leader—a quality so profound that even her siblings and peers rarely called her by her first name. To her brothers, sisters, and friends, she was always “Sister Kaye,” and to everyone else, “Auntie Kaye.”

A quintessential “workaholic,” Avril balanced multiple jobs at a time, serving in hospitals, nursing homes, and private care. She was a nurse to her core, her motto being “Once a nurse, always a nurse.” She took immense pride in seeing her family follow in her footsteps and was never shy about “bossing” other caregivers to ensure her high standards were met. Financial savvy was another of her strengths; she was well-known for “throwing a partner” and managing “susu” with the same discipline she brought to her nursing career. Avril’s spirit was defined by her love for travel. She adored exploring different countries, cultures, and foods, especially on tropical beaches. Although she owned two beachfront houses, she couldn’t swim, she never even owned a bathing suit. She was a modest dresser who took pride in her natural beauty—refusing makeup or anything fake.

She was a true trendsetter with her signature maxi skirt and running shoes, never leaving home without her 50lb purse and a hat for “bad hair days.” Then there was “the walk”—a natural, rhythmic strut that showcased her all-natural curve, a silhouette she maintained without help and would often brag about. When she wasn’t traveling, one of her greatest joys was a trip to Red Lobster for their Admiral’s Feast. She enjoyed the world’s simple pleasures, from a hot cup of tea to Saturday soup, doing crossword puzzles, catching up with friends and family on the phone, shopping ( Walmart and Kroger were her stores) she also enjoys thrifting, and story telling , but she was most passionate when watching CNN and discussing politics. She was a fierce defender of women empowerment, she would “want smoke” with anyone who spoke ill of Michelle Obama, wishing deeply to see a woman president.

Avril had a sharp wit and an infectious, unforgettable laugh. Her truth could hit you like a dagger, she was unapologetic about putting someone in their place, regardless of who they were, yet she would always show that she meant everything with love in her special way. She lived her life with purpose, dignity, intentionality and boldly. She commanded respect naturally and was a no nonsense woman.

HER LEGACY

Avril is reunited with her parents, Consie Blake and Mr. Forrester, and her siblings Talbert, Lylda, Ashford, and Stanley. She is survived by her siblings: Herbert, John, David, Henry, and Paulette; her children: Pauline, Delroy, and Michael (wife Sophia), and O’Mar Peter Whitelock. Her legacy lives on in her five grandchildren: Dr. David, Dr. Jason, Brandon, Kimberly, and Gabrielle and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. “She will surely be missed but never forgotten.