Obituary of Vinton Fitzgerald Dawson

Vinny was born on January 15, 1964, in the parish of Trelawny, Jamaica, to parents Winston and Florence Dawson (Lawrence). He attended Jackson Town Primary, Cedric Titus Secondary, and later graduated from Brown’s Town Community College with a focus in Agricultural Science.

From a young age, Vinton developed a strong passion for automobiles—both driving and repairing them. This love for cars was something he inherited from his father, who owned and operated trucks. He often fondly remembered skipping school as a teenager to learn about vehicle maintenance and to drive.

In 1987, Vinton founded Interceptor Sound System, starting with just a small turntable in a corner shop. By 1991, after migrating to the U.S., he passed the sound system on to his younger brothers. His passion for music grew even deeper, and in 2011, he founded Invasion Sound System, which gained recognition and became widely known, playing across Jamaica. Vinton, affectionately known as "Fadda Vinny," became a respected figure in the reggae community. One of his favorite artists was Luciano, whose music resonated deeply with him.

In 1988, Vinton married Pauline (Jackie), his beloved wife of 36 years. Their bond was inseparable, and together, they built a life filled with love, vacations, road trips, and cherished family gatherings.

In 1991, Vinton migrated to the United States to join his wife and begin building a brighter future for their family. He attended trade school to formalize his mechanical skills and earned certifications in auto mechanics. Vinton worked as an auto mechanic for several companies before obtaining his Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) and entering the trucking industry. Determined and resourceful, he bought a crashed semi-truck, repaired it himself, and began his driving career. After two years as an independent contractor, he started his own trucking company, purchasing several semi-trucks and trailers. He operated the business successfully until 2013, when he decided to close it. Vinton also worked at a Kenworth truck dealership for several years, further honing his expertise in diesel mechanics.

Vinton was loved by all who knew him, whether for a short time or throughout his life. His warmth, kindness, and larger-than-life personality left an indelible mark on everyone he encountered. He was always ready to lend a helping hand, especially when it came to fixing vehicles. He was fair, jovial, and generous with his time and knowledge.

Vinton’s faith was a cornerstone of his character. As a devout Baptist, he held a deep belief in the power of prayer and divine guidance, which influenced the way he treated others with kindness and integrity.

Vinton is survived by his devoted wife, Pauline; daughter, Nicole; sons, Jermaine and Darren; and two grandchildren. He is also survived by his mother, Florence; brothers, Delroy, Fitzroy, Michael, and Sean; sisters, Valencia and Jacqueline; and many nieces, nephews, and other relatives.

Vinny will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend. His kindness, generosity, and love will never be forgotten by all who were fortunate to know him.