Alvin George

Whilby

Alvin George Whilby was called home to the Lord on July 2, 2025. Born on March 19, 1940 in Heartease, St. Ann, Jamaica to Cleveland Benjamin Whilby and Ruth Ann Bygrave Whilby. Alvin was the third child of thirteen children.

Affectionately known as "Bun Mon," or as he loved to introduce himself as "Alvin and the chipmunks", Alvin's warmth, humor, and wisdom touched countless lives. From a very young age, Alvin showed an extraordinary passion for cooking and baking. Growing up surrounded by the rich aromas of island spices and home-cooked meals, by the age of 13, he started a part-time job working in a restaurant and a bakery.

This humble beginning was only the start of the greatness destined to come. From a likkle yute Alvin always knew that he wanted to be the boss. He took pride in every step, from selecting ingredients to the final presentation.

Continuing his passion from country to Kingston, Alvin worked multiple jobs. This new venture eventually led him to meet his soulmate, Winnifred. The connection was instant; lavishing her in presents to win her heart and telling sweet jokes to see her beautiful smile. He later established his first restaurant called Whilby's Restaurant on Gretna Green Avenue in Kingston. Whilby's Restaurant was the heart of the community, the place to be, all the locals loved to hang out, reminiscence and hear the many jokes from Bun Mon. As he always said, "I should've been a comedian."

A hardworking, devoted husband in search of a better life for him and his family, Alvin made the tough decision to leave Jamaica and migrate to America.Leaving his loving wife and family to manage Whilby's Restaurant while he worked tirelessly to fulfill his promise to build a stable future and lay the foundation.

Shortly after the family joined him in America, Alvin's entrepreneurial spirit led him to open his second restaurant in the 80's called Almay's West Indian Kitchen located in Englewood, NJ. Almay's quickly became a popular spot within the community, not only did he make front page on the local section of the Bergen Record twice for his authentic Jamaican dishes, but it was also a main attraction for many celebrities.

His hustle and his abundant commitment drove him to stay on his grind so much that he worked overnight as a Custodian for more than 30 years at Cresskill High School until he retired. Alvin was the true definition of "The Jamaican Hustle." His journey is true testament of hard work, dedication, discipline and self-sacrifice; always prioritizing his family.

A man of immense strength and genuine spirit, Alvin was a man's man and a ladies' man. He will be remembered for his immeasurable love of family, a hard-working Jamaican that had three jobs mon, a business mon from yard and abroad. His roots in the Jamaican community, and the enduring stories he shared-always with a glint in his eye and a gentle laugh. Alvin was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, lephew and honorable friend to many.

He is survived by his devoted loving wife Winnifred Holness Whilby who has stood by his side for more than 50 blessed years of love, faith and partnership. Children: Blossom, Royston, Veronica, Marcia, Jennifer, AnnMarie, Edditon, Ricardo, Earl and Alwyn. An abundance of grandchildren, great grandchildren, siblings, cousins, nieces, and nephews. Predeceased by his parents and sister Vivia Jean.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to all who have offered prayers, support, and kind words during this difficult time. May his soul be at peace in the presence of the Almighty and may his memory live on in all of us. To be absent from the body, is to be present with the Lord. Corinthians 5:8