Pedro Lorenzo Chinnery
Born on January 5, 1924 in Jost Van Dyke, BVIPassed January 30, 2025 in West Melbourne, Florida
Pedro Lorenzo Chinnery was Born on January 5, 1924, in Jost Van Dyke, BVI, to Emmanual Chinnery and Rebecca Sewer. Pedro spent his early years between Jost Van Dyke and St. Thomas, attending Jost Van Dyke Primary School. He embarked on his career as a civilian cook for the Marines in St. Thomas, where he discovered his passion for the culinary arts. His dedication and skill paved the way for him to become an American citizen through his work with the military.
Upon moving to New York, Pedro met the love of his life, Esther Skerritt, in Queens. It was Esther’s beauty and radiant personality that captivated him, leading to a deep and lasting love where they married and built a life together and welcomed their twins Paul and Portia. Seeking a better life beyond the city, they settled in New Jersey, where Pedro pursued a fulfilling career as a Master Baker at Suburban Dessert Shoppe, crafting exquisite cakes and desserts for high-end clients.
Pedro accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior and was baptized with his children at Faith Temple Baptist Church in East Orange, New Jersey. He loved the teachings of Tony Evans and never missed an opportunity to listen in on a Sunday. Pedro was also a proud member of Masonic Lodge Tyrian #34 in New Jersey.
A private individual by nature, he most cherished time spent at home with his family and close friends. He expressed his generosity in quiet yet profound ways to those who had the privilege of knowing him. Beyond his professional and family life, Pedro found joy in gardening, home improvement projects, and watching nature shows. Later in life he developed a fondness for Judge Judy, Family Feud, and Let’s Make a Deal. He especially enjoyed the humor of Wayne Brady, often sharing a hearty laugh at his antics.
Pedro will be remembered for his calm and gentle spirit, his humility, his keen ability to listen, and his quiet generosity. Those who could make him laugh felt like the funniest person in the world. On January 30, 2025, Pedro was called home with his wife and children by his side.
Pedro was preceded in death by his siblings Malberita, Lincoln, Oliver, George, Irene, Asta, Lionel, and Louise.
He is survived by his beloved wife Esther; his cherished children Pedro Jr., Paul and Portia; his brothers-in-law George Skerritt and William Skerritt; his sisters-in law Josephine Simon, Mary Samuels, Vashti Reid, Claris Skerritt, Joanna (Alice) Skerritt, Mildred Galloway, a host of nieces, nephews, and treasured friends.
Calling hours are from 10 am until time of service at 11:30 am on Thursday, February 6, 2025 at Brownlie Maxwell Funeral Home, 1010 E. Palmetto Avenue, Melbourne, Florida. Entombment will follow at Florida Memorial Gardens.