Born in 1934 in Saint Ann Parish, Jamaica, Cecille (Ceil, Sissy) was the first born to Claris Harris and William Hawthorne. Ceil was a woman of quiet strength, steady grace, and deep devotion to God, family, her Jamaican culture, and her second country, the United States.

From an early age, Ceil persevered despite the untimely death of her mother, helping her younger siblings to complete their schooling and serving like a mother to dear Claire (Eve) and Ted (Ernest, predeceased). She taught them the value of determination, hope, and generosity, qualities that defined her life and guided her path. Ceil was generous, kind, and did not waste time on negativity. She never had a gossipy or bad word about anyone.

Ceil fought tirelessly to support and uplift her extended family, finding ways for them to obtain better opportunities than their Jamaican homeland could provide. Through determination and discipline, she built a respected career at the US Post Office, where she worked diligently and excelled, earning admiration for her reliability, kindness, and calm presence.

Though soft-spoken, her strength was unmistakable. She led not with loud words, but through example—showing resilience in hardship, patience in uncertainty, and unwavering love and kindness in all circumstances. She will be remembered for her quiet courage, her hardworking spirit, and the profound love she gave so freely to her family. Her life remains a blessing, and her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Ceil passed away peacefully in Washington, DC, on January 28, with her sister and her niece holding her hand. She is survived by her beloved sister, Claire (Eve), along with a large and loving family of nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews, all of whom carry forward her legacy of strength, humility, and devotion.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Catholic Relief Services or World Central Kitchen, two organizations that are helping those in need, including those affected in Jamaica by the 2025 Hurricane.