Obituary of Henrich Aston Plummer

In Loving Memory of Henrich Aston Plummer

March 3, 1953 – October 3, 2025

Age: 72 years

With profound sorrow and deep love, we announce the passing of Henrich Aston Plummer, affectionately known as “Oney” and later “Mr. Jerk.” Henrich departed this life peacefully on October 3, 2025, at the age of 72, following a brief illness. He was surrounded by the unwavering love of his family at Brampton Civic Hospital.

Henrich was born on March 3, 1953, in Plowden, Manchester, Jamaica, to Hezekiah Plummer and Mazel Dixon-Peynado. When his parents moved to England shortly after his birth, Henrich was raised by his beloved grandmother, Lucy Grant — affectionately called “Mama.” Under her nurturing care, he developed a love for cooking, a strong sense of independence, and a deep compassion for others — values that would shape the rest of his life.

He attended St. Joseph High School in Mandeville, where he later settled and began working in a local mechanic shop. Though he was naturally skilled with his hands, it was in the kitchen where Henrich found his true passion — one that would ultimately define his legacy.

Henrich raised his family in Mandeville with strength, perseverance, and deep love. Even after leaving Jamaica, his sense of responsibility never wavered. He played a vital role in helping his aunt Gluna raise her young sons, Wayne Scott and Philip Bullock, offering guidance and support as a father figure.

In 1993, Henrich immigrated to Canada from Jamaica leaving behind the late Deloris Singh ( Hanief’s Mother) and children and arrived on a harsh winter’s day , accompanied by his son Charles, and sponsored by his first wife, Ingrid Plummer — a close friend of the late Aunty Betty. The two initially lived with Aunty Betty, whose generosity, alongside Ingrid’s, helped Henrich establish a new foundation. Together, Henrich and Ingrid would go on to sponsor the immigration of his other children: Karen, Kevin, and Hanief (Kirk).

Henrich often spoke of his immense gratitude to Ingrid, Aunty Betty, and their families for their kindness and support during those early years. He held a deep love for his aunts Gluna and Betty and his uncles, cherishing the bonds that sustained him.

Shortly after arriving in Canada, Henrich began working at Mr. Jerk restaurant in Peanut Plaza, Don Mills. He quickly became known for his hard work, warm spirit, and respectful nature. So beloved was he that, when the opportunity arose, he was entrusted with ownership of the Mr. Jerk location on Eglinton Avenue West in 1995. Henrich embraced this opportunity wholeheartedly, eventually purchasing the building and proudly running the business for 17 years.

Together with his children, who worked alongside him, Henrich transformed Mr. Jerk into more than just a restaurant — it became a cornerstone of the Jamaican-Canadian community. His legendary jerk chicken, pork, and curry goat not only nourished but connected generations. His culinary excellence and community contributions were formally recognized by the City of Toronto.

In 2003, Henrich married his second wife Diana Lalor, and together they welcomed their son, Tyler. A devoted father and grandfather, Henrich found his greatest joy in family. He is remembered as a proud and loving father to Evan, Charles, Kevin, Karen, Hanief, and Tyler; a caring stepfather to Camesha and Patricia; and a cherished grandfather to 17 grandchildren.

In 2006, Henrich set out on a heartfelt journey to reconnect with his paternal roots. That journey led him to Plummer Town, Jamaica, and eventually to a long-awaited reunion with his father in England. Their emotional reconnection, decades in the making, was a powerful moment of healing and joy — a bond rekindled despite time and distance. His family had searched for him for years, unknowingly hindered by the absence of his childhood nickname, “Oney,” from official records.

Henrich also gave back selflessly, volunteering with the Little Jamaica BIA (formerly the York-Eglinton BIA), where he served on the Board of Management in 2007. His efforts helped preserve the cultural vibrancy of Eglinton West, now known as Little Jamaica, where he was a respected figure and advocate.

Even after stepping back from the restaurant business following a prostate cancer diagnosis, Henrich remained resilient. He later worked at Swissport at the airport, where he formed lasting friendships and continued to embody grace, strength, and humility. He lived cancer-free in his final years, a testament to his fighting spirit.

Henrich will be remembered for his infectious smile, unwavering optimism, and tireless work ethic. His impact stretches far beyond the walls of his restaurant. He had a rare ability to make people feel seen, valued, and loved — a true gift to everyone who knew him.

He is survived by his father, Hezekiah Plummer; his children: Evan, Charles, Kevin, Karen, Hanief, and Tyler; former wife Diana Lalor, stepdaughters: Camesha and Patricia; 17 grandchildren; his aunt Gluna Gilpin; uncle Earldon Grant; siblings in the UK: Samantha, Brian, Trevor, Linda, Desmond, Sonia, and Janet, and a wide circle of extended family and friends.Henrich loved his late brother, Nigel Patterson, deeply. Nigel’s passing in August 2024 left a void that words can scarcely fill.” Everyone who met Henrich or had the privilege to know him lives were forever enriched by his presence. 

CLICK TO VIEW HENRICH'S VIEWING AND FUNERAL SERVICE