St. Croix High Schools Classes of 1965 Reconnection.

ST. CR ROIX OIX HIGH SCHOOLS

YE EAR RECONNECTION

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Remembrance of Our World in 1965

by Winona A. Hendricks ~ Vice President Christiansted High School Class of 1965, the last graduating class of Claude O. Markoe High 1965, the 1st graduating class from the St. Joseph’s High School. These are the individuals we are honoring this year because they have given 50 years of service to their community.

Let me set the stage for their world and life as they approached graduation from high school in 1965: the Governor of the Virgin Islands was the Honorable Ralph M. Paiewonsky and the Government Secretary was Cyril E. King. The President of the United States of America was Lyndon B. Johnson and his Vice President was Hubert H. Humphrey; the Reverend Dr. Martin L. King Jr. and more than 2,600 persons were arrested for protesting against unfair voter registration rules and laws; Willie Mays hit 512 home runs; the Kentucky Derby winner was Lucky Debonair; in the World Series the Los Angeles Dodgers defeated the Minnesota Twins; in the National Basketball Association the Boston Celtics defeated the Los Angeles Lakers; the hit movies were “Dr. Zhivago” and “The Sound of Music”; in the fashion world ladies wore mini-skirts and platform shoes and men wore bell bottom pants; the bestselling books were James Baldwin’s “Going to Meet the Man” and Alex Haley’s “The Autobiography of Malcolm X”; Grammy Award winning records were “The Girl From Ipanema “ and “ Hello Dolly”; the hit song was The Temptation - “My Girl” and The Byrds sang “Hey, Mr. Tambourine Man”; The Rolling Stones wrote the song “I Can’t Get No Satisfaction”; Muhammed Ali scored victories over Sonny Liston and Floyd Patterson. He was called “The Greatest”.

In1965 the first combat troops from the United States of America were deployed to Vietnam Nam; Winston Churchill, T. S. Elliot, Adlai Stevenson and singer Nat King Cole died.; Malcolm X a Black Muslim leader was shot to death at a Harlem Rally; Black rioted for (6) six days in the Watts section of Los Angeles leaving 34 dead, 1000 injured and approximately 4000 persons arrested. James T. Patterson wrote the book: “The Eve of Destruction: How 1965 Transformed America”.

So as we moved towards graduation, members of the Classes of 1965 Knew we were going to be Change Agents, transforming the Virgin Islands. Sonny and Cher sang “I Got You Babe” as we walked to the beat of Change. So today, let us be joyful and celebrate our accomplishments as we remember family, friends and classmates to “Yesterday” by the Beatles. Welcome to All.

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS President Vice President/Secretary Treasurer Co-treasurer Co-treasurer

Chester Copeman, Ph.D. MFA Winona Adams Hendricks Deanna Sackey Alma Plaskett-Christensen Gladys Rissing

ACTIVE MEMBERS Alma Plaskett-Christensen Angel Encarnacion Winifred Petersen Encarnacion Burton O’Reilley Chester Copemann, Ph.D., MFA Deanna Sackey Esdel Hansen

Elaine James Springer Gladys Gordon Rissing Mary Roebuck Reginald Samuel Sherryl Krauser Parris Tyrone Seales Winona Adams Hendricks

CONSTRUCTION OF DONATED BENCHES George Christensen Chester Copeman, Ph.D. MFA Angel Encarnacion Esdel Hansen Reginald Samuel Tyrone Seales

THANKS AND APPRECIATION To all our family and friends who supported us through the years.

We also recognize the following persons and business entities: Martini’s Restaurant & Lounge Sunny Isles Food Court Stanley F. Sneed Jr.

Tropical Ten Pins Bowling Radio Station WSTX – AM 970 Sentor Douglas Canton Dr. Eugene Petersen

Our sincere thanks to everyone who contributed and gave suggestions that truly helped to make this a Commemorative Booklet. The bios reflect the amazing life journeys of our classmates in various walks of life. Our sincere apologies to those we were not able to reach. Please know that every effort was used to reach the entire classes of 1965, using old technology like mailing, telephone calls, mâllee, face to face meetings, parties, dinners, picnics, cruises, word of mouth and old fashion radio talk shows. We even thought about using the couch, but... We even used the new technology with the help of our grown old kids and grandkids, like email, cell phones, text messages, Facebook, Instagram, Snapchats, Google Plus, Google Drive, Twitter, and other “..ers” we know nothing about.

If you did not get the message, we are very sorry and we truly understand. But, please enjoy reading about the wonderful journey of the three St. Croix High Schools’ Classes of 1965. s.f. sneed & m. roebuck

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As We Reflect

by Mary Roebuck

Yesterday we were the graduating 1965 class of Christiansted High, Claude O. Markoe High, and St. Joseph’s Central High. Yesterday?

A moment of nostalgia then the realization that, in reality, it has been 50 years since those high school tassels were moved from left to right and way before technology as we know it today.

Our schools have combined to celebrate the year we set out to expand our wings, to reflect and share our various journeys in life and explore what may lay ahead. For many of us, “classmate status” may have started as early as kinder-garden or while joining paths in-between the years. For various and similar reasons, the school year 1964-1965 may have been rather bitter-sweet. Claude O. Markoe would graduate its last senior class; St. Joseph’s its first. Central High, as it was known would be short lived. Still, we forged ahead, each school producing excellent students guided by caring teachers and parents at the forefront. We would go our separate ways, pursue higher education, enter the workforce, serve our country, and raise our family. Some paths may have crossed in this life’s journey, if not, it didn’t mean that we forgot those who touched our lives in various ways.

Forty-five years later The Combined Classes of 1965 emerged. Exciting things began to happen with just a handful of people who shares a heritage, an island called home, who were taught the skills for a productive life no matter the career choices.

We invited and did host the Charlotte Amalie High School class of 1965 from November 12 -14, 2010. The weekend consisted of a meet and greet luncheon at Hibiscus Beach Resort. An all-day island tour; lunch 4

at Paquito’s Restaurant; a stop at Armstrong Ice-cream Parlor; refreshing local drinks made by Compai. And culminating with church service, brunch and an interisland talent show (classes of ’65) at Hotel on the Cay. November 11 – 14, 2011, Charlotte Amalie High reciprocated by hosting with their theme, Delighted, Excited, and Reunited! We were indeed delighted and excited along with them to be reunited. They were excellent hosts as we toured, feasted, worshiped and once again exhibited our talents. In Feburary 2014 and June 2015, members joined Charlotte Amalie High on a trip to The Dominican Republic and St. Maarten, and island hopped to St. Barth’s and Anguilla.

With the very able assistance of Mr. George Christensen, the men came together and built a set of beautiful and durable benches and tables presented to each of our represented schools. All students will utilize the benches and tables for years to come.

Together we have worked hard; worshiped; shared breakfast, lunch and dinners; and held a garage sale and Karaoke night fundraisers. Kinship, friendship, and relationships have been rekindled and reestablished.

Classmates who live on the mainland have traveled home to share in the comradery, and oh, what time we had! Along the years, we had to wish some of our classmates an eternal and peaceful rest as we fondly remember them.

We will close this decade and walk along smooth and sometimes rocky paths.

We shall shake off the aches and pains that remind us that we have come a long way while praying for a long way to go. Especially with this awesome Class of 1965!

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A Brief History of Christiansted High Schoo L

In 1932, a high school comprising of vocational and academic students was established at Estate Anna’s Hope. It relocated to Hospital St. in Christiansted. This school was named Christiansted High School. According to former Governor Melvin H. Evans in a Virgin Islands Daily News article dated June 13, 1966, CHS held its first 1948 S TUDERBAKER graduating class of fourteen students in 1936.

Christiansted High School eventually was relocated to Estate Golden Rock.

Herein, fifty years later, is listed eighty-two students who graduated in the Class of 1965.

1957 T HUNDERBIRD

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In 1967, Christiansted High School held its last graduation ceremony ending 32 years of educational service to the St. Coix Community. That same year, St. Croix Central High opened its doors in Kingshill to serve a new generation of Crucians. It held its first graduation ceremony in 1968.

Christiansted High ‘65

Teachers we fondly remember from Christiansted High School

P ASTOR V INCENT G ORDON (E NGLISH )

C HARLES E MMANUEL (L IBRARIAN )

J OHN W OODSON (S CIENCE /B IOLOGY )

J EAN L ARSON (M ATH )

A LBERT S CHUSTER (M ATH )

M ARIA S HUSTE R (M ATH )

V ENETA G ORDON (E NGLISH )

Christiansted High ‘65

A NGELO M ARASCO (B AND /M USIC )

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Christiansted High Student Roster - 1965 (as listed in Yearbook)

Patricia Adams 2. Alexandrine Barbel 3. Beryl Bolling 4. Aubrey Bronstorff

24. Olga Gonzalez

Warren Brow w 6. Inslee Carroll 7. Irma Collazo 8. Chester Copeman 9. Austin David 10. Melicent Duzant 11. Angel Encarnacion

28. Robert Henley

12. Julio Felix x

35. Merrion Jackson

13. Dorette Finch

36. Patrick James

1.

5.

18. Innocencio Garcia a

23. Gladys Gordon

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30. Ezra Henry y 31. Irvin Henry 32. Delbert Hewitt 33. Bob Hoffmeyer 34. Alvin Jackson

40. Clinton Lightburn

17. Felipe Garcia

22. Roland George

29. Olaf Hennemann

39. Laurelly Krauser

16. Doreen Frorup

21. Fellis Gautier

27. Everne Hector

38. Otto Jensen

15. Richard Francis

20. Julia Garcia

26. Esdel Hansen

37. Karl Jensen

14. Frederick Francis

19. Juan Garcia

25. Elroy Halls

41. Clara Lindquest 42. Paula Malott 43. Arendel Martin 44. Henricata Martin 45. Carlos Monell 46. Rolando Morales

Christiansted High ‘65

Christiansted High Student Roster - 1965 (as listed in Yearbook)

47. Aloy Nielson

70. Gleston Sergent

48. Norma Nieves

71. Annette Simpson

49. Burton O’Reilly

72. David Smith

50. Mercedes Ortega

73. Almeric Thomas

51. Nereida Ortega

74. Willard Tutein

52. Carlos Ortiz

75. Alma Velez

53. Blanche Peebles

76. Marcial Vera a

54. James Peters

77. La Verne Walcott

55. Floyd Peterson

78. Winston Walcott

56. Rachel Peterson

79. Eleanor Williams

57. Rodell Phaire

80. Inez Williams

58. James Porter

81. Janet Williams

59. Aida Quinoñes

82. Warren Williams

60. Evaristo Quinoñes 61. Claude Richards

62. Claudett Richards 63. Hector Rivera a 64. Edwin Russell

65. Deanna Sackey

66. Reginald Samuel 67. Jose Santos 68. Tracy Savage 69. Darwin Schrader

Christiansted High ‘65

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Winona Adams Hendricks Winona Patrece Adams Hendricks served her community as a Department of Education teacher, assistant principal, principal and Deputy Superintendent for 32 years. She co-founded the Rigidims Festival Troupe where she directed winning troupes and King & Queen of the Band entries for over 27 years. She has served as an adjunct professor in education and as a member of the University of the Virgin Islands Board of Trustees, WTJX, and Girl Scout Board member. She is an Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority member, former chair & member of the Virgin Islands Board of Education.

Winona has three children: Kasan C. Wheatley, Dr. Kysha S. Hendricks, Kevre’ L. Hendricks and two grandchildren; Kasan C. Wheatley, Jr, and Kaiel Wheatley.

Chester Copemann After graduation I attended Howard University, graduating in 1969 with a B.S. with a double major in Psychology and Zoology. I was on a Presidential Commission, survived as a 2nd Lt in the United States Army; doctorial study Traineeship in Psychology with the NIMH, SUNY at Stony Brook. In 1973 obtain my Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology, State Licensure NYSED; Assistant Dean, Graduate School & Assistant Professor, Graduate Department of Psychology, Stony Brook; established national research program treating addictive compulsive behavior; NYS private practice; consultant, National Institute on Drug Abuse; active duty, U. S. Army Medical Service Corps. 1977: Requested home by Gov. King as Director, Division of Mental Health, Alcoholism, & Drug Dependency; VI private practice & consultancy, behavioral health care treatment services. Twice married, I have four children, nine grandchildren, and four step-grandchildren.

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Christiansted High ‘65

Angel “Compai” Encarnacion I am known as Compai. I was born in Gallows Bay in Christiansted, St. Croix. I graduated from Christiansted High School in 1965.

Upon graduating from high school, I worked for the Department of Education for eight years. I also worked for Antilles Watch Factory and Lumus Construction. I have thirty years of service with the United States Postal Service, retiring in 2006.

I accepted Jesus as my Lord and personal Savior in May of 1976.

Dorrette Finch Carter I attended Howard University and majored in zoology. While pursuing a graduate degree, I worked at Georgetown University and Howard University. I serendipitously found my career at The National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, MD where I remain until retirement in 2006.

I have two children. I love tennis, golf (even though I am not very good at play), tai chi and to garden. My husband and I love to travel and to spend our winters in St. Croix.

Christiansted High ‘65

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Roland George After graduation, Roland migrated to New York and worked for the Navy Ship Stores in Brooklyn. He returned home in 1966.

Roland served in the US Air Force, 1967-1971, returning home after four years of service. In 1975, he graduated with a B.A. in Business Administration from the College of the Virgin Islands (CVI) and, in 1991, from the University of the Virgin Islands with a M.P.A. He has two sons, Jamal (mother, Judy Gomez, Esq.) and Ayinde (mother, Julice Joseph).

Roland worked for the Four-H organization at CVI, for Hess Oil and, after his studies, at Charles Harwood Hospital, Division of Mental Health, until his retirement in 2003.

Gladys Gordon Rissing Gladys Gordon Rissing graduated in1965 from the Christiansted High School. Gladys attended Manhattan Medical and Dental School in New York City receiving her certification as a Dental Hygienist. She attended the College of the Virgin Islands, St. Croix campus where she completed courses in Business Administration. Her work with the Department of Health and Virgin Islands Police Department totaled forty years of outstanding government service.

Gladys received numerous awards and rose to the ranks of President in the Business and Professional Women’s Organization.

She has one daughter, Lyria Rissing-Collins, and one grandson, John Martin Collins III.

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Christiansted High ‘65

Esdel Emanuel Hansen Sr. Upon graduation from the College of the US Virgin Islands, I taught at the Juanita Gardine Elementary School, worked at the Department of Public Works (DPW), then joined the U.S. Army.

Now, proud to be a Vietnam COMBAT veteran.

A After the military, I returned to DPW and later promoted to A Director of Utilities and Sanitation in St. Croix. I’ve drafted many beautiful house plans for homes on St. Croix.

I married the love of my life, Alicia “Chucky” Hansen on June 12, 1976, and had four children; Esdel Jr., Erskin, Elizabeth and Ericksen. I lost my first born, Kareem I. Hansen, in a fatal car accident at the peak of his career, now absent in peace.

I retired after thirty-three plus years at DPW and member of the American Legion Post 85. I owe my success to my God, parents and older siblings.

Alvin Anthony Jackson After graduation, I accepted a clerical position at the then Christiansted Public Grammar School under Principal Juanita F. Gardine.

I earned a B.A. in Business Administration, minor in Personnel Management, from Inter-American University, Puerto Rico. I was among the founding members of our Caribbean Students Organization.

I obtained employment as a Personnel Technician with the V.I. Government and retired as the first St. Croix Assistant Director of Personnel and relocated to California. I gained employment with the State of California, Employment Development Department, in the city of Hollister. I was the first person of “color” employed by the State in that city.

Currently retired after 40 plus years of government and state service and engaged in P/T employment as a Real Estate Agent.

Christiansted High ‘65

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Carlos Juan Monell After graduation, I attended Howard University in Washington, D.C. I earned a Bachelor of Public Administration degree from Florida International University in 1981.

I taught Middle School Math in Miami in the late 80’s and was College of Arts & Sciences Academic Advisor at thr University of North Florida from 1991 until retirement in 2010.

In 1968, while in New York City I married Malvelina Pillot, a 1965 graduate of St. Joseph’s High School. We have a daughter, Natasha, born in Brooklyn. I enjoys travelling domestically and internationally

Aloy Nielsen Graduated from the College of the Virgin Islands in 1967 with an Associate of Arts in Construction Technology; attended the University of Cincinnati and earned a Bachelor of Art in Urban Design, (thesis requirement).

In 1973 to 1977 I was in private practice as partner in the Rollings and Nielsen firm, Architects/Urban designers-planners.

From 1977 to 2007 I was with the Virgin Islands Department of Public Works, becoming the Territorial Director of Highway Engineering, then Territorial director of the Federal Highway Program. I retired from the government in 2007.

Married to Vivian Nelthropp-Nielsen for 40 years and the proud parent of two children, Kimani and Khephra (deceased) and blessed with a grandson and a granddaughter.

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Christiansted High ‘65

Burton O’Reilly Upon graduating from Christiansted High School (CHS) in 1965, I enlisted in the US Army. I was Honorably Discharged in 1967 after two years of service. I then returned home to St. Croix and was employed by the Department of Public Works, the US Postal Service, and, finally as Deputy Marshal at the Superior Court of the Virgin Islands. In 1999 after serving with distinction for twenty-nine years, I retired as Assistant Chief Marshal.

Mercedes Ortega-Martin After our graduation in June of 1965, I left St. Croix and attended Trap Hagan School of Fashion in New York. Upon completion, I returned home, married and had two sons.

I later decided to try the Medical field and became an Emergency Medical Technician. I worked at Charles Harwood Memorial Hospital for a short time then decided to move to Mississippi. I re-married and had a daughter. We decided to move to Utah, and I continued my work in fashion.

I am now retired with five grandchildren and spend my time traveling.

Christiansted High ‘65

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Blanche Peebles After our graduation in 1965, I was employed as a Statistician for the Virgin Islands Department of Agriculture and later, at Chase Manhattan Bank as a Bank Manager for many years. I married and had a daughter and son.

I decided to move to Maryland with my children and completed my degrees in Business Management and Psychology.

I worked in the main office of Bank of America, National Press Building, Washington, D.C. for many years. Being right around the corner from the White House and many attorneys in The Press Building exposed me to Washington at its best. A very exciting life, it has been.

Both my children became professionals in their fields, and I am now semi-retired and trying to find time for myself and my three grandchildren.

Claude Richards After graduation from St. Croix, Claude left to pursue his studies at Howard University in Washington, D.C. He served in the 82nd Airborne Division of the U.S. Army and returned to become a Vice President in Banking and to pursue further studies at Benjamin Franklin University. He has sold real estate, was a Loan Officer, a Regional Manager of USVI Department of Tourism, and is currently Director of Music in his church. He is leader of his own Band and also gives private music lessons to aspiring musicians.

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Christiansted High ‘65

Claudette Richards Derrik Claudette left St. Croix upon graduation from high school to pursue a university education. Her highest degree (Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction) was earned at Michigan State University in 1979.

Claudette has retired after 44 years. Her career included jobs as a teacher, counselor, principal, and university lecturer. Her studies and jobs have enabled her to travel to North America, Europe, Asia, Africa, and many islands in the Caribbean. She lived in Michigan, England, Antigua, and she currently resides in Florida.

Edwin G. B. Russell In 1965 Edwin (Eddie) became employed in government service. Between 1977 and 1989 he was a Teacher of Music and Social Studies. In 1983, Eddie received his BA in Social Science from the University of the Virgin Islands. In 1995, he received his BFA in Music from City College, CUNY and, in 1997 his MA in Music at Queens College, CUNY. Eddie has been a member of the Mighty Sparrow’s Troubadours, Ron Carter Quintet and the Jimmy Heath Orchestra. He has been a Musician/Recording Artist in New York, Miami, Puerto Rico, US Virgin Islands, Europe, South America and Canada. Currently, he is retired from the VI Public School System, a Private Instructor in instrumental music and music theory and Leader of the “Eddie Russell Band.”

Christiansted High ‘65

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Deanna Sackey After graduating from Christiansted High School, I received an A.A. degree from the College/University of the Virgin Islands, my B.A. from Kent State University and my M.A. from the University of Connecticut.

I’m a retired School Counselor from the Dept. of Education with over 31 years of service. I am an active member of the American Counseling Association of the Virgin Islands, and of the Holy Cross Episcopal Church family.

I have three children and four grandchildren all of whom I love dearly. As of this year I have started a business called “Caring for the Caregiver, LLC.”

Reginald Samuel My greatest ambition was to develop a viable farm. It has been a taxing task requiring determination and patience.

In 1979, I joined the active Army for three years and served an additional three years in the National Guard. The military experience gave me the backing needed to get started with the farm on land inherited from my father. I was fortunate to have a well on my property. The well allowed me to build an irrigation system with water supply from that source.

As I continue to improve crop production, I will achieve my vision of supplying locally grown vegetables and fruits on a continueous bases to the St. Croix community.

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Christiansted High ‘65

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A Brief History of Claude O. Markoe High School Act No. 95, passed on May 22, 1958, by the Second Legislature of the Virgin Islands established a new school at Frederiksted. Its intent was to consolidate and supplant the then existing Grammar and Junior High Schools. It further designated the school to be known as Claude O. Markoe School. The school was dedicated the same year. Seven years later, in June 1965, Claude O. Markoe held its final graduating high school class consisting of fifteen students. http://ufdc.ufl.edu/CA01300714/00001/1j George A. Smathers Libraries University of FL Digital Collections, Brief Historical Notes on Schools of the VI

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Claude O. Markoe High ‘65

Claude O. Markoe School Song In the heart of old St. Croix, Exemplifying best, Stands our noble, Alma Mater Dear C.O.M.S. Chorus Hail all hail our Alma Mater Ring out her praise High float her colors, Loud her anthem rise To honor our new high school Dear Claude O. Markoe High.

A symbol of hard years fought for By our parents are so true We shall all bow our heads in honor And be ever loyal to you.

Claude O. Markoe High ‘65

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C LAUDE O. M ARKOE T EACHER /S TAFF R ECOGNITION

V IOLET B OUGH (S OCIAL S TUDIES )

W IFRED J AMES (P RINCIPLE )

H ERBERT G ASKIN (H ISTORY )

O TIS H ICKS (A GRICULTURE )

J AMES O LIVER (L IBRARY S CIENCE )

W ENDELL H AMILTON (P HYSICAL E D )

G ERTRUDE E DNEY I SLES (T YPING )

V ELMA W HITAKER {F RENCH ,/E NGLISH }

E. W OODS , E. A LLICK , H. E DNEY , R. E DWARDS , R. S AMUEL

H ARRISON , M ILLIGAN AND A RNOLD

(“C AFETORIUM ” S TAFF )

(C USTODIALS )

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Claude O. Markoe High ‘65

Claude O. Marko Student Roster (as listed in Yearbook)

1.

Anita Christian

2.

Velma Francis

3.

Brenda Gaskin

4.

Larry “Derby” George

5.

Joan Henry

6.

David Jackson

7.

Sherryl Krauser

8.

Rueben Lang

9.

Winston Matthews

10. Jennifer Prince 11. Tyrone Seales 12. Agnes Senthill 13. Ronald Simcoe 14. Louella Smith 15. Lydia Thomas 16. Carolyn Woods

Claude O. Markoe High ‘65

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Velma Francis Thomas Shortly after graduation Velma married and joined the banking industry workforce. She began her career at the then Virgin Islands National Bank, which subsequently became as First Bank. Velma retired in 2010 after thirty-seven years of dedicated service.

Since her retirement, Velma enjoys traveling especially to visit her immediate family. She has three daughters, one son, ten grandchildren consisting of two sets of twins and three great-grandchildren. Velma is an active member of her church community at Calvary Baptist Church. She is grateful to be able to enjoy retirement in good health and the blessings of her family.

Sherryl Krauser Parris Sheryl holds an AA and BA Degree in Accounting from the University of the Virgin Islands (UVI). She served twenty years at UVI Business and Financial Office, and as Assistant to the Director of Renovation of Health Agencies in the VI. Sheryl retired while at the Department of Health.

Sheryl participated in Softball, Volleyball, and Basketball Tournaments representing the US VI in Puerto Rico, Belize, British Honduras, and the US. She served as St. Paul’s Episcopal Church Finance Chair; Treasurer; Chairman of Fundraising Committee; the Governing Board; and other ministries.

Sheryl is the mother of two professional daughters and one grandson; a member of the National Honor Society and graduate of Forestville Military Academy.

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Claude O. Markoe High ‘65

Jennifer Prince Richards Born in Antigua, relocated to St. Croix at age twelve and attended St. Patrick’s School. Later I was transferred to Claude O. Markoe School (COMS) and graduated in 1965.

I’m a 1973 graduate of Howard University with a B.A. in Elementary Ed. and a 1986 graduate of Western Maryland E Collage with a M.A, in Deaf Ed. My husband is Dr. Rodney A. Richards, also a graduate of COMS. Our children are Rodney Richards, Jr., D.D.S. and Jinne Richards, M.D. My philosophy, a Golden Rule is: “Do unto others as you’d have them do unto you.

Tyrone Seales Tyrone graduated Valedictorian-Class of 1965, Claude O. Markoe High School. He attended the College of the Virgin Islands (AA-1967); NYU (BS-1969 Physical Education) & (MA-1979 Administration & Supervision). He taught PE on every level from elementary to university.

Tyrone retired in 1998 as Coordinator of PE-St. Croix.

Presently, he is part-owner of J&T Enterprises Sporting Goods.

He married Beverly Sprauve of STT. They have three children and five grandchildren.

Tyrone is active in Rotary West-Past President and District Secretary. Member-St. Croix Golf Association- represented St. Croix in competition throughout the Caribbean.

Claude O. Markoe High ‘65

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Agnes Senthill Lang After graduating from Claude O. Markoe, Agnes worked at St. Croix Savings Bank for two years. In 1967, she joined Chase Manhattan Bank until 1989 when Hurricane Hugo devastated the Territory. Agnes joined the Department of Justice, Paternity and Child Support as a collection agent. She retired in 2007 after seventeen years of government service and twenty four years in the banking industry.

Agnes married David Lang forty-five years ago. They have two sons, one daughter, four granddaughters and three grandsons. Agnes volunteers her time visiting and assisting the elderly. She spends quality time with her grandchildren and enjoys her retirement.

Ron Simco After graduation in 1965, Ron enlisted in the U.S. Navy submarine electronic technician (Atlantic; operating out of Spain).

NCSU 1969-73 (BSEE). He married Beau Ward in 1974 and returned to submarine service in (Pacific; operating out of Hawaii/Guam) as commissioned officer. Ron attended the U.S. Naval Postgraduate School, Monterey, CA, between 1978 -80 (MSEE). He worked as Project Manager, Advanced Submarine Combat Systems.

Ron retired in 1985, R&D Project Manager, Unmanned Undersea Vehicle, DARPA; President of Coastal Properties & Repair, Inc., Wilmington, NC, 1990; real estate sales 1999 until present. Ron and Beau have three children and five grandchildren.

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Claude O. Markoe High ‘65

Louella Smith Rabsat After graduation, I attended UVI. I worked for Pan American A from 1968-1971, then relocated to Tallahassee, Florida.

In 1971-1973, employed with the Parole and Probation Commission. In 1975, I enrolled at FSU and received B. S. and M. M S. W. In 1982, relocated to Atlanta and worked at the Atlanta Urban League, Black Women’s Wellness Center, and City Schools of Decatur as a social worker. In 2001 taught adult education classes at DeKalb Tech College.

I have three children; have travelled the country, islands, Europe; enjoy volunteering with many organizations, jumpstarted some of them.

In 2011, after twenty-five years in the workforce, I retired but remain active as a GED instructor and served on the board of The Friends of the Library.

Lydia V. Thomas Parris After graduation Lydia worked ten years in the banking business and ten years for the Virgin Islands government. On January 31, 2007, she retired from the US Postal Service after twenty-one years of service.

Lydia married on August 30, 1968, in St Paul’s Episcopal Church.

She has two daughters, two sons, twenty-two grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

Lydia enjoys singing, dancing, camping and cooking. She is an active member of her church and participates in several church organizations. Her favorite prayer is St. Francis’ prayer, “Lord make me an instrument of your peace . . .”

Claude O. Markoe High ‘65

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B RIEF H ISTORY OF S T . J OSEPH ’ S C ENTRAL H IGH Enrollments were growing at St. Patrick’s and St. Mary’s. The pros and cons of a central high school were debated as against expansion of the facilities at the parish school sites. The decision was made to work toward a new central high school to serve both Frederiksted and Christiansted.

On November 1, 1962, a little over 12 acres of land at Mount Pleasant were deeded for $24, 998.81. John Randal McDonald presented plans that were approved by His Excellency, Bishop Edward Harper. Ground-breaking ceremonies took place on April 12, 1964. On September 21, 1964, 237 students entered St. Joseph’s Central Catholic High School. On December 6, 1964 the school was dedicated with its official name, St. Joseph’s Central High School1.

1

In the Centralian, “The Centralian, St. Joseph’s Central Catholic High School Yearbook,St. Croix U.S. Virgin Islands, pg. 2, 1965, http://www.cybermeme.net/ hugoart.html”

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St. Joseph’s Central High ‘65

S T . J OSEPH ’ S C ENTRAL H IGH P RINCIPAL AND T EACHERS

S ISTER M ARY R EMBERTE , I.C.M., R ELIGION , E NGLISH , A LGEBRA

P RINCIPAL : M OTHER M ARY C ONSTANTINA , I.C.M., R ELIGION

S ISTER M ARY X AVERIA , I.C.M., R ELIGION , E NGLISH , F RENCH

S ISTER M ARY E LIZABETH , I.C.M. R ELIGION , T YPING , S HORTHAND , B OOKKEEPING , B USINESS L AW

S ISTER M ARY R OMUALDA , I.C.M., P HYSICS , G ENERAL S CIENCE , G EOMETRY , A LGEBRA II, M ATH IV

A DMINISTRATOR : R EV . F ATHER A RTHUR J. M AHONEY , C.SS.R

S ISTER M ARY A LEYDE . I.C.M., R ELIGION , B IOLOGY , S OCIOLOGY , W ORLD H ISTORY

St. Joseph’s Central High ‘65

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S TAFF , C USTODIAN AND S ENIOR C LASS OF 1965

Our Chief Cook & Staff: Mrs. A. Davila Ms. Porter Ms. Williams Ms. Barnes Ms. Farrelly

Custodians: Thomas “Tommy” Ovesen and Baron (the German Shep)

Class of 1965

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St. Joseph’s Central High ‘65

St. Joseph’s Central High Student Roster (as listed in Yearbook)

1. Maria Benitez

24. Olga O. Petersen

2. Raymond E. Clarke

25. Winifred E. Petersen

3. Genevive S. Clenance

26. Malvelina Pillot

4. Diana T. Delgado

27. Freddie Pimentel

5. Carmen M. Dubois

28. Alma C. Plaskett

6. Velma C. Farrelly

29. Orlando Ramirez

7. Norma A. Francis

30. Edith Ramos

8. Myrna I. Garcia

31. Peter Rijos, Jr.

9. Claudette D. Henry

32. Sherryl M. Rodgers

10. Warren Jacobs

33. Maria Rodriguez

11. Elaine V. James

34. Mary Roebuck

12. Floria R. James

35. Victor Ruiz

13. Maria C. Maldonado

36. Patricia A. Saunders

14. Nilsa A. Marrero

37. Carol T. Schjang

15. Carmen J. Martinez

38. Gail A. Schulterbrandt

16. Judith M. Martinez

39. Duval A. Sewer

17. Olga E. Martinz

40. Preston C. Tutein

18. Nolia L. Milligan

41. Nilda C. Wlcott

19. Susan M. Milligan

42. Betty M. Williams

20. David W. Motta

43. Christina L. Williams

21. Marion G. Motta

44. Nevlin Williams

22. Thomas A. Ovesen

45. Norma A. Williams

23. Laura D. Pagani St. Joseph’s Central High ‘65

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Diana T. Delgado Born in Frederiksted, St. Croix, Virgin Islands and a member of the first graduating class of St. Joseph Central Catholic High School, 1965. Studied at, The Modern Hairstyling Institute, Puerto Rico. Married and divorced. I have a daughter and son, three grandsons and one granddaughter. Worked at Public Safety Investigation Bureau, Norbert’s Beauty Parlor and at Merwin Hardware Store, Purchasing Dept.

Also at St. Patrick’s Church Rectory and as a secretary at Hess Oil/Hovensa Refinery, Maintenance Department, for 27 years. Retired and living in Cabo Rojo, Puerto Rico.

Elaine James Spinger Elaine James Springer - 1965 graduate of St. Joseph High School. She received her BS and MA degrees from the University of the Virgin Islands and New York University.

She has received the best female athlete award at the University of the Virgin Islands. She is an Inductee into the University of the Virgin Islands Athletic Hall of Fame and winner of the first bowling tournaments on St. Thomas and Tortola. Elaine has traveled extensively in North and South America and Europe representing the Virgin Islands in numerous sports.

She served as an elementary teacher for 30 years. She has a son, Jamil Springer and granddaughter, Jadore Springer.

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St. Joseph’s Central High ‘65

Floria James Steele Floria graduated from the College of the Virgin Islands with a B.A. in Social Science and New York University with an M.A. in Educational Administration.

She worked as a teacher at Elena L. Christian Junior High and John H. Woodson Junior High Schools for 23 years.

Floria also served as an Assistant Principal at Claude O. Markoe and Juanita Gardine Elementary Schools for seven years and retired in the Year 2000.

Since retirement Floria became actively involved with American Red Cross, the Bromley Berkley Women Auxiliary, the Veterans Clinic and the St. Joseph Catholic Church community.

Floria is married and the mother of two sons and two daughters.

Maria Maldonado After 30 years of service in the Department of Justice, Paternity and Child Support Division, I retired on December 31, 1999.

Since then I have devoted much of my time to traveling. I have been to Frankfurt, Germany; Paris, France; London, England.

In the United States I have traveled to Las Vegas several times; Orlando, Tampa and Miami, Florida; Atlantic City, New Jersey; Portland, Oregon; San Jose, California; Manhattan, New York; and Manassas, Virginia.

In 2013 I went on a Western Caribbean Cruise on which we visited Cozumel, Belize, Honduras, and the Cayman Islands. I have been to countless concerts and Broadway shows. It has been 16 years of fun and frolic.

St. Joseph’s Central High ‘65

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Nolia L. Milligan After graduation from St. Joseph High School, I attended the Catholic University of Puerto Rico, where I obtained a B.S. degree. Returning to St. Croix, I was employed by the Dept. Of Education as a secondary school mathematics teacher. Several years later, I enrolled in graduate school at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Upon completion of the Masters program, I returned to the Dept. of Education as a librarian, where I remained until my retirement in 2001.

Malvelina Pillot Monell After graduation, Malvelina attended Duquesne University. In 1978, she earned a Bachelor’s degree in English from Florida International University.

Malvelina moved to Miami and started working for Florida International University in 1978. She later moved to Jacksonville, Florida and worked at University of North Florida as Executive Assistant to the President and Director of Equal Opportunity Programs from 1991 until retirement in 2010.

In 1968, Malvelina married Carlos Juan Monell, a 1965 graduate of Christiansted High School. They have a daughter, Natasha, born in Brooklyn.

To date, Malvelina has travelled to 43 cities (12 countries) in Europe, Asia and Africa.

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St. Joseph’s Central High ‘65

Alma C. Pleskett-Christensen Alma C. Plaskett-Christensen graduated from St. Joseph High School in 1965. After graduation, Alma worked for the late Attorney Frank Padilla, then at the Experiment Station. From 1965-1969, Alma worked for the Department of Public Works. From 1969, until her retirement in 1999, Alma worked in the Municipal Court, later named Territorial Court, and now Superior Court.

Alma is a member of St. Patrick’s Church and Alumni Association, and the St. Croix Landmarks Society, of which she is a past Board of Trustees Member.

Alma is married to George B. Christensen. She has two children, five grandchildren, and two great grandchildren.

Mary Roebuck One year after graduation Mary relocated to New York, later married and was blessed with two wonderful children. After twenty-four years of being away from home, she returned to St. Croix. She later went into governement services wherein, she pursued a degree in Paralegal Studies at NYC School of Technology (CUNY). She remained in government services in the U.S. Virign Islands for 20 years, retiring in 2010 as a Hearing Officer for the Virgin Islands Department of Labor.

Mary has a daughter and son, three granddaughters, two grandsons (one deceased) and two great-grandsons. She is active in various voluntary community services, including St. Croix Landmarks Society and the National Park Service. Genealogy research being her passion she has researched her Crucian paternal ancestral lineage to 1740s giving credit to many who helped along the way.

St. Joseph’s Central High ‘65

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Betty Williams Betty is a 1965 Graduate of St. Joseph Central High School.

She obtained her B.A. from Hunter College in New York and her M.A. from the University of the Virgin Islands. Betty has dedicated 35 years to public education. Five of those years were in District 8 of Bronx, New York and 30 years in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Betty is a present member of St. Thomas-St. John Retired Educational Personnel and Government Retirees United for Fairness (GRUFF). Her current residence is Pembroke Pines, Florida.

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St. Joseph’s Central High ‘65

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H IGH S CHOOL S WEETHEARTS Mr. Carlos Juan Monell graduated from Christiansted High School in 1965 and the same year Mrs. Malvina Pillott Monell graduated from St. Joseph Central High School. They married in 1968 in New York. Five year later they had their daughter, Natasha.

Mr. Angel Encarnacion and Mrs. Winifred Petersen Encarnacion married on June 1, 1969, at St. Ann’s Catholic Church, Barren Spot, St. Croix. They have two daughters, one son, four granddaughters and eight grandsons. Angel is a graduate of Christianst ed High School and Winifred a graduate of St. Joseph’s Central High.

Dr. Sidney Rabsatt and Mrs. Louella Smith-Rabsatt married on June 28, 1969, in Frederiksted, St. Croix.

Louella is a graduate of Claude O. Marko High School in St. Croix and Sidney is a 1965 graduate of Charlotte Amalia High on St. Thomas. They are the proud parents of three children.

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Sweethearts Since High School

No distance of Place or lapse of Time can lessen the Friendship of those who are thoroughly persuaded of each other’s worth.

Robert Southey

Sweethearts Since High School

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