Jimmy Elidrissi, Waldorf=Astoria

Our Union is deeply saddened to announce the passing of Jillali “Jimmy” Elidrissi, a bellman at the Waldorf=Astoria for 51 years and the longest serving bellman at the hotel.

After immigrating from Morocco to the United States, Jimmy began working at the Waldorf=Astoria in 1966 at the age of nineteen. His friends at the Waldorf described him as a mentor and father-like figure, and often referred to him as “Mr. Waldorf” because he was so knowledgeable about the hotel.

Rebecca Villasenor, a former front desk agent at the Waldorf=Astoria, recalled how Jimmy loved to share his stories of the Waldorf and how much she enjoyed hearing them. “When Jimmy told a story you felt like you had been there with him, because he would remember every single detail. It breaks my heart that I won’t be able to hear his stories anymore.”

Patrick Alexandre, a former bell captain at the Waldorf=Astoria for 17 years, who is now working at the Kimpton Muse, remembered the generous spirit that characterized Jimmy. “My dad came from Haiti and he used to love reading a particular French magazine, but we couldn’t find it anywhere in New York. Well, Jimmy found a bookstore that carried it and he would bring me the newest issues so I could give them to my father. He had never even met my dad, but he still went above and beyond to make him happy. Jimmy was just that kind of person.”

Jimmy is survived by his wife Souad Elidrissi, two daughters, Rajaa Elidrissi and Fouzia Michel, and his granddaughter, Grace Sylvie Michel.