JameS alVerTiS WyaTT Obituary

Sunrise: July 24, 1925 – Sunset: February 23, 2023

James Alvertis Wyatt was one of the first residents of Rochale Village, moving into the community 59 years ago during a time when residency was limited to white-collar professionals or members of the NYPD or NYFD. As a member of NYFD, this made James one of the first few African American firefighters to live in Rochdale Village, and he was even recognized for his long-time residence.

He was born to Ernest and Pearl B. Wyatt on July 24, 1925, in Kansas City, Kansas, where he was formally educated. One of six, he was often referred to as “Jimmy” or “Wyatt” by his loved ones.

After high school, James enlisted in the United States Coast Guard, the Merchant Marines and even the United States Army.

James lived a faithful life of service and devotion. After his time in army ended in 1957, he then set his sights on becoming a New York City Firefighter. A true African American hero, he wanted to imitate Jesus after all, “the greatest one among us is the one that serves”.

It was during his time as a firefighter that he met the love of his life, Hazel Louise Pickell. They got married on October 6, 1958, and shared 54 years of wedded bliss before his beloved Hazel proceeded him in death in 2012. After retirement from the NYFD in 1981, James joined the United States Postal Service where he became a letter carrier and a motor vehicle operator until 1992. While off the job, James was very athletic and particularly loved track and field. He was a highly regarded member of the

Rochdale Village Runners Club and took part in several marathons and mini marathons, including the New York Marathon where he performed admirably.

He also devoted time to encouraging younger men and women to pursue their dreams. Among his nephews and nieces, he served as an example of what true service and courage looks like in the African American community.

While he toiled in the shadows, his efforts did not go unnoticed before his passing on February 23, 2023. For his honorable and outstanding service, he received the Merchant Marine Emblem, a Victory Metal, an Honorable Service Button and even a Presidential Letter. More recently, / City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams gave him a City Citation.

We say goodbye to his noble gentleman, whose tremendous work ethic, contributions and perseverance can only serve to inspire the next generation. He leaves behind two brothers, one sister, several in-laws, and his nieces and nephews to carry his memory and legacy.

Longtime Rochdale Employee, Miles Beecham, Retires

by olayemi okeniyi

OnFriday, April 14, 2023, Rochdale Village celebrated Miles Beecham as he retired after 26 years of exceptional and dedicated service.

A familiar face on the cam- pus, Beecham was a handyman in Rochale’s Maintenance Department. His collegues lined up to shake the hand that helped most of them when the joined the Rochdale workforce. We wish him the best of luck as he embarks on a new era of life.