Sydney George Hibbert (AKA “Uncle Munez”)
June 29, 1916 – October 6, 1983

Sydney George Hibbert, affectionately known as “Munez” or “Uncle Munez,” was born on June 29, 1916, in Kingston, Jamaica, at 28 Hannah Street. He was the ninth child of Solomon Augustus Hibbert and Theodora Elizabeth Marquis. His siblings were Robert Herman, Huntley Ezekiel, Hazel Annatis, Lucile Ione, Ann Myrtle, Joslyn Ivanhoe, Theophilus Euslock, and Rudolph George.

In the 1940s, like many Jamaicans of his generation, he answered the call to serve during World War II, enlisting in the Royal Engineers of the British Army. His service took him to Egypt and North Africa, and by the end of his military career, he had risen to the rank of Warrant Officer.

Uncle Munez had a deep love for the Army, and even after returning to civilian life, he remained actively involved in ex-servicemen’s activities. In his later years, he lived in the village of Liphook, Surrey, where he was widely known as “Syd” and respected throughout the community.

Beyond his military service, he was a qualified football (soccer) referee and a proud Freemason—roles that reflected his discipline, integrity, and commitment to service.

After a brief illness, he suffered a heart attack and passed away on October 6, 1983. In a touching tribute on the day of his funeral, as the hearse passed through the village, several shops and businesses closed their doors, and residents lined the streets in respect. He was cremated, and his ashes were returned to Jamaica for interment.

Uncle Munez’s children include Owen (with Louise Chin), Rudolph (with Hazel Campbell), and Herman, Marques, Terrence, Andrew, and Madelene (with Irene Potter).