Mr. Stephen A. Poyser

Stephen Poyser was born on February 16, 1944, in Ashton District, Westmoreland, Jamaica, West Indies, to Matilda and Joseph Poyser. He was the second of five children: Cecil, Stephen, Eugenie, Audrey Poyser-Peck, and Joseph Poyser. Stephen received his primary and secondary education in Jamaica, where he fondly remembered his early years at Ashton Elementary School. During his adolescence and young adulthood, Stephen demonstrated independence and ambition. While working on his father's farm, he became an equestrian enthusiast, excelling as a jockey and local professional boxer.

His respectable, dependable, and trustworthy nature earned him various positions of responsibility. From 1967 to 1972, he served as a personal driver for The Honorable Dudley Thompson, a prominent member of the Jamaican Senate and House of Representatives.

In 1973, Stephen immigrated to the United States, initially settling in Ohio before moving to Evanston, IL. In Evanston, he pursued his passion for cars, securing an apprenticeship at Bill Matthews Auto Body, where he mastered the trade of auto body mechanics. In 1980, Stephen, along with his longtime friends Robert (Bobby) Pascoe and John Reed Sr., opened JA Automotive, a business he successfully ran for over 26 years. Outside of work, Stephen was dedicated to his family, actively participated in family and community events, mentored youth, and served in his church. He was committed to instilling valuable life skills in others, helping them to thrive.

Stephen's deep faith and love of God were central to his life. He was a long-time member of St. Paul AME Church in Glencoe, IL, where he served under six pastors for over two decades. He was an active participant in the Men's Ministry and served as a Trustee. Stephen was a well known figure in Evanston, often seen chatting and engaging with people wherever he went. He was a regular at Valli's Produce, where he shopped almost daily. Known for his distinctive style and flashy fashion, Stephen left a lasting impression wherever he went. He was a wise, hardworking, and family-oriented man, beloved by many. He lived by his favorite motto, "Eat good, dress good, and let God's angels follow you."

Stephen is survived by his 13 children: Orville Poyser of Skokie, IL; Raymond Poyser of Kingston, Jamaica; Wayne (Wilma) Poyser of Springfield, MA; Gary (Regina) Poyser of Waukegan, IL; Andrew (Natasha) Poyser of Springfield, MA; Kendard Poyser of Evanston, IL; Natasha (Bernard) LaVallias of Skokie, IL; Stephen Poyser Jr. (Ashley) of Lake Villa, IL; TatianaPoyser of Round Lake, IL; Rajneish Poyser of Gurnee, IL; Keisha Poyser of Skokie, IL; Nickai Poyser of Chicago, IL; and Dontye Harrison Poyser of Evanston, IL.

He was preceded in death by his daughter Karen Poyser, both of his parents, and siblings, Eugenie and Joseph. Leaving behind his children, a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and community members who will forever cherish his memory.

Stephen Poyser's legacy is one of love, dedication, and resilience. His life exemplifies hard work, independence, and the power of faith. His impact on his family and community will be cherished forever. May his memory live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him and were touched by his kind and charitable nature. Please keep the family in your prayers.

Arrangements entrusted to Thompson Funeral & Cremation Services, Inc. Mr. Philip L. Gillette ~ Funeral Director

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