Obituary of Winnie Bivens

My Dearest Family and Friends,

A little bit about me. I was born in Birmingham, Alabama on January 11, 1959 (contrary to what the family thinks it was 1959 not 1958 - thank you). I was the second born to the late Charles Bivens and Shirley Alston. Years passed and my mother, oldest sister and I moved to Brooklyn, New York where my mom met and married George Alston and along came my brother and younger sister.

I received my education in the NYC Public School System and began working around age 19 and never stopped working since. With all this work, I found enjoyment in traveling, spending hours at the slot machines, chatting with folks and of course taking care of a sacrificing for the love of my life.

Jessica Shantel, you have always been number one in my life. You brought me so much joy and i have been proud of you since day one. I got my little girl the fist time around-so, sorry you were the only child! I am still with you, i am a "Ma" away. You caan still call me for no reason or to ask "Ma", what to do" or "Ma, I'm mad because..." Jessica, remember, I will always be by your side and will always be your number one supporter. Our 37 years together were the best times of my life! So my dearest daughter, my heart, my soul, my reason for living continue to make me proud. I LOVE YOU!

To my family, father, Mr. George Alston; sister, Ms. Constance Chess; brother, Mr. Robert Alston; sister, Ms. Donna Jones; niece, Ms. Teleshia Alston; nephew, Mr. Westley Pinkney; niece, Ms. Erica Alston; one aunt, four unclles and a host of great nieces, great nephews and other relatives - you all know how sensitive I am and will cry for everything. I want you to take solace in knowing my tears are now happy tears of the memories we shared together.

My dearest friends of 30 plus years - what wonderful times we shared. There are few people you encounter that you can genuienly trust and form a bond. I thank you all for your friendship and support through the decades. And, you know I have to say this - take care of my baby!

Lastly, to my friends along the way, coworkers and all I got a chance to meet, it was a pleasure. We shared good laughs and pleasantries which will not be forgotten.

I am sorry I left unexpectedly. Although you all wanted me to stay, I leave you with my helping hand, joy and memories.

I LOVE YOU ALL!

Always,

Winnie Ophelia Bivens