In memorium: Alfred Barrett July 4, 1957 - March 13, 2012

[murph]

Please share your memories of Alfred! He was such a great guy- I think all of us would love to hear that little story or small moment that you will always remember him for...

I'll get it started by saying that just 3 weeks ago he was SO EXCITED, I mean I havent seen him this excited in a while... about Peter Tosh Day. He spoke of how he works so hard for his family, but in doing so- he doesnt spend enough time with them... he was gleaming ear to ear when he told us that about the big feast he was going to prepare for his family. he was to kill a goat and a pig and have all of his family there to celebrate. He was so excited to be spending time with them...

miss you bredda

[ohliz]

In 2008 or so, he picked me up in Negril and took me to Kingston to visit a mutual friend. He drove carefully and slowly. As we chatted he mentioned that he was driving that way for me. I told him not to worry about me and drive as he liked...we FLEW to Kingston

We stopped along the way in Whitehall to pick up some lobsters because it was March 31, the day before they'd be illegal. Alfred helped me locate and choose and negotiate the price of those lobsters. On arrival in Kingston he stayed for dinner..and good thing because none of had a clue what to do with 6 live lobsters. He arranged the (killing) parboiliing and cutting in half, I grilled them with garlic butter, as I'd seen Lydie do at 3 Dives so many times. We enjoyed that meal so much.

I remember when his son was so badly off, in the hospital in Kingston, and our talks of how he was handling that.

A year or two later, when ekoostik hookah came to Negril for a week of shows with fans, I asked Alfred to be one of our "main" drivers. He took great care of everyone, even got out of bed for late night calls. Many of my friends from that group have called me today to express their sadness.

That's all I've got.

[TizzyATX]

I'm sad I dont have more memories of him. Only priveleged to meet him once.

But that smile is contagious....

[Muzikdoc]

December 09...We were late being picked up because another couple sharing a ride could not be found...Alfred Made the trip in I'm sure was record time..at one point I was sure we were on two wheels around a corner..Alfred looked over his shoulder at me and said "No Worries I am A Professional" Then laughed that loud laugh of his. Of course we made it safe and on time for our flight.

[shooter1]

I met Alfred for the first time 3 weeks ago. He drove myself and another couple to our hotels. I met the couple at Atlanta airport and we are all from around the St.louis area and we just happened to end up in the same ride with Alfred.I was telling them that I was going to shoot pool at Tayons that night and Alfred looks at me and says that is where I hang out. He tells me there is a guy there that is real good. We made jokes and Alfred bet me that the dude would destroy me. I told the couple the I was going to Ragabones the next day and hoped my friend Trombone would be there and Alfred looks at me and says that's crazy. He says how do you know him? I grew up with him. I said that awhile back I met him at Ragabones. So we get to Green Island and I mention that I am going to shoot pool at a little place called Patsies . Alfred slows down and gives me this look and says oh my god who are you and what is going on here. That's my cousins place.I went to Tayons that night and was shooting and I turn around and there's Alfred right behind me.We drank and shot pool and got real loud.Alfred had a big voice and big heart. Another good person taken too soon. RIP Alfred.

[Dana1]

Hard to believe that less than a month ago, Alfred was driving us around. We always looked forward to his smiling face when we stepped out the doors of the airport. So incredibly sad that he is gone now! Rest in peace Alfred...you made a difference

[bmsmith]

Oh my gosh!! We are saddened by this news. My husband and I had Alfred pick us up from Montego Bay to Negril on one visit. Always a smile and eager to make trip wonderful!! Just a nice guy. I could not find article on Gleaner!! What happened??? Anyone know??? Wow. He and his family will be in my prayers!!! Respect!!

[davevols]

Back before Alfred got his van, drove through a flood from airport to Negril.

Wife was in back seat, where water started coming into the floorboard. The amp under the seat got wet and started cracking and popping.

Alfred was all "no problem", first of many trips with him.

Always had a toot of the horn for the pretty ladys, and was very proud of the block house he was building to leave for his family.

A good man that will be missed.

[treefrog]

I read the news today oh boy
about a lucky man who made the grade
and though the news was rather sad......

John Lennon

Rather sad indeed!
God Bless Alfred, R.I.P.

[CrazyTracy]

Christening of Alfred's son Jay at Treehouse:

http://public.fotki.com/NegrilTracy/...y_alfred_barr/

I am having a hard time going through old photos through my tears...