Pierre McKelvin

Pierre McKelvin was born April 25, 1963 to Patricia McKelvin in Chicago, Illinois. He was an only child. He was educated in the Chicago Public Schools System and attended Westinghouse High School. On July 18, 1987, Pierre married the love of his life after a chance meeting at the subway station downtown. Their union brought together a family, which included Renata and Mario, and grew to include the twins, Pierre Jr. and Paris. Pierre worked for the City of Chicago as a "Booter", which some might consider an undesirable job, but he always thought of it as an honest means for putting food on the table, and it did just that. Pierre endeavored to teach his sons that "being a man is not about doing what you want, but what you have to." He loved spending time with his family, especially hanging out with his sweetheart. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and friend. He liked to play cards, dominos and bowl. He was always ready to crack a joke or poke fun. His loving, playful and gigantic teddy bear build endeared him to many. Even as his health declined, he never lost his sense of humor, as his friends, doctors and nurses can attest. To know him was to joke with him. A highlight to Pierre's life came in June 1988, when he became a dedicated and baptized servant of Jehovah, along with his wife. As one of Jehovah's Witnesses, Pierre loved studying and reading the Bible. He spent hours with Karen sharing the good news about God's Kingdom with neighbors and co-workers. He was well known for making his way around the congregation to extend a firm handshake, quick to introduce himself and make visitors feel welcome. Many have commented of how his encouraging words motivated them to study the Bible and attend meetings. Even while hospitalized, Pierre was determined to share what he knew about a better future with doctors and nurses, many of whom expressed appreciation. In some of his weakest moments, he mustered up the strength to invite others to the Memorial of Jesus Christ's death. Pierre leaves to cherish his memory, his loving wife, Karen; his mother, Patricia McKelvin-Tankson; his children, Renata, Mario, Pierre Jr. and Paris (Tasha); grandchildren, Teion, Tramale, Kylan and Cayden; his mother-in-law, Peggy Tines; brothers-in-law, Reuben, Jerome Jr., Matthew and Alex (Otilla); sister-in-law, WesElla (Rodney); uncles, Harvey (Rose) and Moses; a special cousin, Lula Mae; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Tributes

Pierre McKelvin

April 25, 1963 - April 30, 2015