Astley R. McLean

Astley R. McLean, age 74, died unexpectedly at Palmetto General Hospital, Hialeah, FL on April 3, 2012. p;nbsp;Astley was born on September 30, 1937 in Mocho, Clarendon, Jamaica West Indies. In 1962, he came to the United States to join his Mother. On July 31, 1962 Astley enlisted in the United States Air Force as an Aircraft Mechanic. His first duty station was in the Philippines and he later took part in the Vietnam War. During his enlistment he became a citizen of the United States on May 17, 1966. Astley received an Honorable Discharge as a Sergeant from the 436th Field Maintenance Squadron (MAC), Dover Air Force Base; Dover, Delaware on July 30, 1968. Upon his return to civilian life he was hired by Pan-American Airlines as an Aviation Mechanic and resided in Brooklyn, NY with his wife, Joan, their three children and Mother-in-law. In 1971, Astley and Joan moved their family to Columbus, Ohio. They determined Columbus would be a more family oriented environment for their children. Astley continued his employment with Pan-American Airlines and would fly home to his family every weekend until he found employment in Ohio. In 1973 he secured employment with the City of Columbus, Fleet Management Division as an Auto Mechanic. Astley was later promoted to the 2nd Shift Supervisor of the Fleet Management staff until his retirement in January 2003. Astley and Joan both retired in 2003 and relocated to Lauderhill, Florida where he resided until his untimely death. During his retirement he gave of his time freely to assist others in need and he was very involved with the condominium community where he resided. On December 19, 2011, Astley partnered with a group of former residents of Mocho in an ongoing program to assist the needy children in the community, this event was sponsored by the Clarendon Crime Prevention Committee, the Mocho Police and the FAACS Family Foundation which provided school supplies, food, clothing and cash to the needy children and families in the area. Astley was interviewed by The Gleaner newspaper of Jamaica W.I. and stated "I have done a lot of good things and also a lot of bad things in my life, but today is the best day of my life. I feel so gratified to see these kids enjoying themselves". All of his life Astley was a very giving and caring person. He never met a stranger; would engage anyone in conversation, and always flashed that beautiful smile that we will never forget. He was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather and great-grandf ather. He will be missed dearly by his family and many, many friends. Astley was preceded, in death by his Grandparents Thomas & Arabella Ashley; Mother, Loleta V. Hughes and Step-Father Everald DaCosta. He is survived by his loving wife, Joan; children, Marcia McLean Broadnax, Donna McLean, Anthony (Jajuana) McLean; Grandchildren, Brandon Broadnax, Devin Broadnax, Deija McLean, Jared McLean; Great Grandchild, Xavier Broadnax; Sister, Dr. Geta LeSeur-Brown (Edward Brown); Niece, Che LeSeur and a host of special cousins, relatives and friends.

Astley R. McLean

September 30, 1937 - April 3, 2012