Daisley Rex Stapleton

May 25, 1953 ~ November 12, 2025

Daisley “Rex” Stapleton (born May 25, 1953 – passed November 12, 2025) was a beloved poet, scholar, photographer, and family man. Born on the Caribbean island of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Rex attended Rose Hall Government School and Emmanuel High School in his youth. In 1974, he ventured to England, and by 1977 he had settled in the United States, making New York his home for the decades that followed. Through these journeys, Rex’s life was a rich tapestry of culture, learning, and adventure.

Despite his many talents, Rex often downplayed his own artistry. In his own humble words, he once wrote: “I’m not claiming to be a poet, nor a writer.” Yet despite this modesty, he became a published author and poet, best known for his book Drink of Silence. He was also a dedicated scholar and a talented photographer, channeling his curiosity and creativity into both learning and art. Rex had a keen eye for beauty and a deep well of knowledge — a true Renaissance soul who found poetry in both words and images, and wisdom in every experience.

Rex’s presence was a blessing to all who knew him. He was deeply loved by his family and widely respected in his community for his kindness, wisdom, and gentle spirit. Whether discussing literature, sharing his latest photographs, or simply listening with a compassionate ear, he touched countless lives with his warmth and insight. Proud of his Caribbean roots yet at home in the world, Rex carried a calm strength and an infectious passion for knowledge that inspired everyone around him.

He is survived by his lifelong partner, Mariem Canal. He also leaves behind four sisters: Jean Stapleton of Rose Hall; Ruth “Pet” Bentley; Cherry Stapleton; and Wendy Rodney. Three brothers: Casil “Dean” Stapleton; Ormand Rodney; and Ronald Rodney.

Rex also leaves behind seven beloved children: Roxanne Williams (United Kingdom); Fitzgibbon Garraway; Pearlann Robertson (Rose Hall, St. Vincent); Yoland “Epi” Bartholomew; Grevance Richard (United Kingdom); Tyjuana Fisher; and Natrell Fisher. A grandfather to Nigel Garraway, Malachi Garraway, Jamair Steed, Telasha Bryant, Tyzjay Davis (all of New York), and Micah John (United Kingdom). Rex was also a caring stepfather to Sherifat Kasumu and Evita Rilwan, who — along with a host of cousins and nieces — will forever cherish his memory. He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Emus and Hermina Stapleton, and by his son, Kmali Stapleton, whom he now joins in eternal rest.

Rex will be remembered for his gentle spirit, generous heart, and quiet strength. To his family, he was a pillar of wisdom and a constant source of comfort — the one they turned to for honest advice or a reassuring word. In his community, whether in the close-knit circles of Rose Hall or Staten Island, New York, he earned deep respect through his kindness, integrity, and willingness to help others. Friends and relatives alike recall his ready smile and thoughtful conversations, the way he could  find poetry in the everyday. He carried himself with dignity and treated everyone with warmth and compassion, leaving an imprint of genuine goodness on all who had the privilege of knowing him. The world feels a little quieter without him — yet in that silence, the echoes of his poetic spirit remain ever present. He leaves behind a legacy of love, art, and wisdom that will continue to inspire. Though his earthly voice has been stilled, his spirit lives on in the hearts of those who love him.

Though our hearts are heavy with sorrow at his passing, we celebrate the life of a remarkable man who was at once a father, a friend, an artist, and a sage. Rex filled his 72 years with wisdom, laughter, and love. His departure leaves an emptiness in the community he touched, but his spirit lives on in every life he graced. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

This obituary was written by his daughter in loving tribute to Daisley “Rex” Stapleton, honoring his life, his art, and the profound impact he had on his family. I love you FOREVER, Father.

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