Ainsworth Nurse, Sr.

Apopka, FL. – A. Earl Nurse Sr., 73, passed away Friday, December 13, 2019. He leaves his loving wife and companion of 45 years, Paulette; his daughter, Chantel; his two sons Leroy and Earl Jr.; 2 brothers and 2 sisters, his grandkids, great-grandkids, and many other family and close friends.

Born and raised in the Caribbean city of Arouca, Trinidad, he’s the son of Vivian Jules and Percival Nurse and the youngest of 6 siblings. Mr. Nurse was a man dedicated to the betterment of his community. He showed this even as a teenager by helping to form a youth brigade and coaching the local net ball team.

In the late 60’s he immigrated to the United States and settled in New York City where his passion for social activism grew. As an orderly at the House of the Holy Comforter nursing home in The Bronx, he led a demonstration with his union to demand better working conditions. While studying psychology and behavioral sciences at Lehman College he became a pediatric psychiatric worker at Mt. Sinai Hospital and then an Operating Room supervisor at Albert Einstein Hospital.

As his career in the medical field progressed, his community involvement did too. He organized multiple neighborhood associations and became Vice President of the Neighborhood Housing Services in The Bronx. In 1984, he was hired as a legislative aide to the City Council which gave him the opportunity to help many others. While serving under 2 different administrations, he became an advocate for immigrants – helping many with their resident status. He also helped to pass several legislations and was responsible for several street dedications and park rehabilitations.

Mr. Nurse retired in 2001 and relocated with Mrs. Nurse to Apopka, Fl. Even in retirement he continued his community outreach. He became Vice Chairman of the 1199 SEIU Doris Turner Retirees, Vice President of the Jamaica Cultural Connection and appointed to the Orange County Park Advisory Board. During this time he implemented innovative improvements and organized several events and trips for the members – including a recent cruise to Cuba. He also continued his advocacy for immigrants and became a healthcare ambassador for the elderly.

He loved watching sports, listening to music (especially Calypso) and spending time with his family. He stayed very connected to his home country Trinidad – travelling back many times and staying in close contact with much of his family there. Mr. Nurse made an impact everywhere he went and made an impression on everyone he met. His Love and Leadership will be missed by many.

The family will receive friends on Friday, January 3, 2020 from 5pm – 8pm at Highland Funeral Home, 3329 E. Semoran Blvd., Apopka FL. Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, January 4, 2020, 11am at The Church of the Holy Spirit, 601 S. Highland Ave., Apopka FL. 32703.