Eugene Lateef

We honor the life and legacy of Eugene Lateef TenEyck, beloved son of George and Sadie TenEyck, and a proud native of Westbury, Long Island, New York. Born on August 11, 1951, Eugene departed this life on June 3, 2025, at Saint Vincent’s Hospital in Jacksonville, Florida. He received his education in the public schools of Westbury, where he demonstrated exceptional aptitude and a creative, entrepreneurial spirit from a young age. Among his early endeavors were constructing his own bicycle and operating a candy shop from his home. He also possessed a natural talent for music and enjoyed playing the saxophone. A proud graduate of the Class of 1970, Eugene maintained a lifelong love of jazz and reggae music and found joy in fishing, one of his favorite pastimes.

Following high school, Eugene pursued further education at the RCA Institute, TCI College of Technology in New York City, and Grumman Aerospace School of Technology in Bethpage, New York. On April 24, 1976, he married Michelle Crocker, a native of Seaboard, North Carolina. Eugene spent 15 years as a Quality Assurance Analyst at UNISYS Corporation in Syosset, New York, before embracing his entrepreneurial spirit. In 1989, he and Michelle relocated to Jacksonville, Florida, where he renovated the old Starlight Hotel and went on to establish United Network Promotions, later rebranded as Tiki Graphics. His innovative work earned him numerous accolades, including the Best Boss Award in Graphics and Print in 2018, a testament to his dedication and excellence.

As the first Black business owner in his family, Eugene was a trailblazer who wore the title with honor and pride. From 1989 until his passing, he built a thriving business that became a cornerstone of the community. His clientele—including politicians, churches, local businesses, beauty salons, and nail salons—became more than customers; they were a reflection of Eugene’s integrity, work ethic, and creativity. His business flourished through the trust he cultivated, the loyalty he inspired, and the personal connections he built. His legacy endures in the countless lives he impacted and the businesses he helped succeed.

Eugene is survived by his beloved wife, Michelle; two sisters, Rose TenEyck of Harlem, New York, and Alice TenEyck of Riverhead, New York; and was predeceased by his brother, George TenEyck. He is also mourned by four nieces: Kimberly (Lamont) TenEyck Bethea of Amityville, New York; Genia TenEyck Williams (Frank) of Birmingham, UK; Lana TenEyck of Amityville, New York; and Leslie TenEyck of Glen Cove, New York; as well as his nephew, Jordan G. Pierre of Harlem, New York. He leaves behind sisters-in-law Wynomia Crocker of Walden, North Carolina; Virginia Nelson, Annette Ward, and Garnetta Smith of Seaboard and Oxford, North Carolina; and Ernestine Crocker of Rocky Mount, North Carolina. His memory is also cherished by numerous grandnieces, nephews, cousins, and friends spanning Florida, New York, Virginia, the United Kingdom, and Germany. Eugene’s remarkable contributions and warm spirit will be fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Relatives and Friends are encouraged to visit Mr. Lateef's tribute wall to share memories, extend condolences and to order floral tributes, as sentiments to the family. 

The Caring Team of T. L. Faison's Funeral Care, LLC is privileged to provide

"Professional Care, With Dignity & Integrity" 

to the family of Mr. Eugene Lateef.

We ask that you unite with us in remembering the family in both thought and prayer. 

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