Alavan Dobson

OBITUARY

Alavan Dobson, affectionately known as Dabby, a/k/a Uncle Dabby, left us peacefully at the age of 82 on January 12, 2025, surrounded by his beloved family.  Alavan lived a full life filled with kindness, joy and a unique sense of style.  He was deeply devoted to his family and friends, always offering a helping hand and caring presence.

Born in Brittonville in the parish of St. Anne Jamaica W.I., Alavan was the cherished son of Soloman Dobson and Marvie Morris along with his brother Trevor and sister Yvonne.  He attended Brittonville Elementary School where he excelled as a student and enjoyed the game of cricket with his friends.  He was also an avid domino player. 

Though a quiet man by nature, he was known for his strong work ethics and determination.  Dabby’s first job was at the Bauxite Company of Jamaica in Nain, St. Elizabeth.  At the age of seventeen he joined his mother in Kingston where he developed his driving skills.  He worked at the Ministry of Health and then worked as a bus driver for JOS bus company where he met his forever love Desna. 

Dabby and Desna got married on February 15, 1969 and they emigrated to the USA in 1970 where they shared 54 years of marriage.  After honing in on his driving skills as a tractor trailer driver in Jamaica, which was no easy feat, he got his first job with Nu Car Carriers for Ford Motor Company in Mahwah, NJ in 1971.  He then worked with Leaseway Carriers for 37 years until his retirement.

Known for his playful spirit, Dabby often shared his favorite phrase “ Too bad, too sad” with those around him, leaving a lasting impression of lightheartedness.  We would be remiss to not mention that the brother dressed to impress “Dapper Dabby”.

                Although faced with challenges, he did not allow hardships to damper his spirit. He lived life how he knows best, joyful, and always wearing a smile.  He loved being outside and on the road, so, any chance he gets to be on the road he would take it. He would volunteer at the Word Of Life food pantry, where he would pack boxes and assist with food distribution to feed the community.  His love for others was his driving force and could be seen by anyone who got the chance to experience him.

Alavan is predeceased by his parents, his brother Trevor and his grandson Jamal.  He is survived by his devoted wife Desna, Aunt Tass, Aunt Birdie, daughters Michele (and husband Eddie), Norma (and husband Rudy), Jennifer, Betty, and son Rick.  His legacy lives on through his grandchildren Akil, Kasandra, Jacqulyn, Gabrielle, Racquel, Isaiah, Gennet, Talibah, Subani, Terik, Tahira, and Destiny, nine great-grandchildren and one great-great grandchild as well as an abundance of nieces, nephews, cousins and a host of extended family and friends who were blessed to have known him.​

Alavan’s memory will forever be cherished by all who knew and loved him.  

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