Lester Guy Gant Morand

Lester Guy Gant Morand, lifelong New Brunswick resident, passed away peacefully on March 14, 2025, in his home at the age of 100. He was born September 14, 1924, in the district of Stony Hill, St. Andrew Parish in Jamaica. He was born to Clarice Smellie and Aubrey Morand. Lester grew up with his brothers and sisters, William, Stanley, Eric, Doris (Kitt), Stanley, Adrian (Boisey), Ruby, Phyllis (Bibby) and Uriel (Sonny). Lester had two daughters Michelle Morand and Lillian Morand Berry, and two stepchildren Karl Burnstein and Sheila Burnstein. Lester enjoyed working and learning at the Catholic school and church in Jamaica. He was in the choir, and he also served as an altar boy. Lester attended St. Annie’s Primary School in Kingston, Jamaica. He spent a lot of time with his grandmother in the countryside who would have him go out and kill chickens, which is why he doesn’t eat chicken today. Lester Morand was 20 when he came to the United States in 1943 on S.S. George Washington, and started a career in government working in the Arsenal in New Jersey. He said they fed him a lot of horse meat and that’s why he was always horsing around. Years later, he worked as a truck driver traveling across the United States. He then met Theresa, when a friend of hers introduced her to Lester. Theresa said her friend asked Lester for a ride to the movies, and when he dropped them off, he asked for her number to take her out. Years later, the Lord saw fit that Lester married Theresa Morand on September 23, 1967. Lester and Theresa had an everlasting love. Theresa was his sun, moon and all the stars every day, and in every way. Lester, her king, her rock, her everything, made Theresa feel like the world was hers. In the early 70’s, Lester opened a bar called the Roundtable on Georges Street where he made a lot of lifetime friends. From The Roundtable in New Brunswick all the way to Pennsylvania, everyone knew Lester Morand for his magnetic personality. After he retired as a business owner, he worked as a Limousine driver for GEM Limousine Service in Woodbridge, NJ for over 10 years. He was known for his vitality, and old school sense of humor. For 43 years, he was a member of Progressive Lodge No.17, F. and A.M. obtained his 33rd degree in 1982 where he served as a trustee and recreation manager for many years. He loved reading the Bible daily, many different newspapers, and books. His favorite hobbies were gardening, planting, and making sure his flowers were cared for daily. He truly had a green thumb. He also enjoyed traveling to Jamaica and driving across the US to visit family and friends. Lester always wanted to share his vegetables from his garden with friends, family, and people in the neighborhood. He also enjoyed helping others, cooking, and current events. He enjoyed watching Westerns, whether it was television or film. He was always an informed citizen, as he loved discussing politics with everyone. Those that knew the Roundtable, knew that Lester, when he was 42, was burned in a terrible fire at the Roundtable, and he died and was successfully resuscitated twice at the St. Barnabas burn center where he recovered for months. By the grace of God, Lester survived and was able to live on laughing and loving until he passed away peacefully at 100. Lester became a member of St. Albans Episcopal Church in New Brunswick, NJ, where he served as a member until the lord called him home. Lester was predeceased by his parents Clarice Smellie and Aubrey Morand, his devoted wife Theresa Morand, his daughter Lillian Berry, son Karl Burnstein, and his siblings. He is survived by his daughters Michelle Morand Indianapolis, IN, Sheila Burnstein Warren, NJ, His legacy continues through his grandchildren: Aubrey Ways, Eric Ways, Tanisha Burnstein, DeAnn Morand, Myji Berry, George Berry. Great-grandchildren: Ramon Stephenson, Morrell Morand, Marcellus Morand-Gordon, Navaeh Morand-Williams, and Anyji Berry. Great-great grandchildren Ay’den Morand, Zaveen Morand, Riley Morand and Amiri Morand. Lester’s extended family includes his bonus daughters Vanessa, Sylvia, 2 Godsons, a host of nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, great-great nieces, great-great nephews, cousins, and numerous friends that are like family who will forever hold him in their hearts. Lester Morand's life is evidence of his dedication, love, strength, and family. His legacy will have a shining light in the lives of all who had the privilege to know him and his memory will be forever in our hearts.

Lester Guy Gant Morand

September 14, 1924 - March 14, 2025