Obituary of Vincent L. Hairston Jr.

Vincent L. Hairston, Jr. was born November 27, 1966 in Camden, NJ to Vincent L Hairston, Sr. and Marsha Hairston. Vincent was educated in the Camden City Public school system and graduated in 1984 from Camden County Vocational & Technical School where he majored in Building Trades. Vincent worked several jobs until he enlisted in the U.S Navy in 1986. During his time in the U.S. Navy, Vincent was able to travel to many countries and developed his palate for delectable dishes. He had fond memories of his Naval career. He also formed lasting friendships and maintained a close bond with friend Colon Ragston, Jr. He was honorably discharged in February 1990. Upon discharge from the U.S Navy, Vincent attended tri-city barber college. Vincent also held positions at the U.S. Postal Service, New Jersey Transit and Mount Laurel Public School System, where he retired in 2015. As a little boy Vincent was very skinny & shy but he blossomed into a social butterfly as he aged. In high school, he wanted an outlet, so he joined the Cross-Country team, where he excelled. High School is also where he met his best friend, Alonzo Piercy. The two remained friends until his passing. Vincey, as he was affectionately known, never met a stranger. He loved his private time, hanging out with loved ones, but most of all, he loved a good party and being with the fellas. Vincey loved his children and grandchildren. He took pride in teaching them life lessons. He was a Sixers and Eagles fanatic. He was foodie at heart; he loved taking long drives to try new restaurants, specifically Black Owned businesses. He was the epitome of Black empowerment and hosted a Facebook group which he named Chocolate Chronicles. He brought strangers together from all across the country to create a family. He loved educating others on the beauty and greatness of our people. He loved the ladies and the ladies loved him. Vincent is preceded in death by his father Vincent L. Hairston Sr. and survived by his mother Marsha Hairston. He also leaves to cherish his memories, two sisters - Victoria Hairston-Peoples (Anthony) and Imani Hairston; two brothers - Anthony Hairston and Vincent Rawlins. He also leaves his beautiful legacies (children) - La’Toya Hairston, Ronelle Davis, Sabrina Jones and Marquita Samuels. He has two granddaughters - Laila Richardson and Alani Morris; two grandsons- Benjamin Gilliard and Jalen Samuels. Proud uncle to one niece - Londynn Hairston, two nephews- David Collins and Isaiah Jones, as well as two nups (nephew pups) Puffy and Boomer Peoples. He also leaves a host of relatives and friends.