Marc-Ely Lafleur

God broke the mold when he made Marc-Ely. A soul so pure, and a heart so generous. He had a gentle spirit, moving through this world with purpose and compassion. Though his time with us was far too short, Marc-Ely lived with a joy and boldness that touched every heart.

Marc-Ely Karl Lafleur was born on January 26, 2005, at Plantation Hospital. He was born to Marie Carmelle, his mother and Irveltz, his father. He weighed 9 pounds and 3 ounces —a precious bundle sent by God to show that even through pain, light can shine, and strength can be found in the softest of places. He was born with the HBSS variant of sickle cell disease, the most severe form of the condition. Although diagnosed at just 6 months old, Marc-Ely faced life with bravery and grace, turning pain into purpose and trials into testimony. Marc-Ely endured countless battles, even so his spirit was unstoppable. He welcomed the curiosity and joy that life brought to him. His spark could never dim even on the darkest of days.

A true lover of learning, Marc-Ely found wonder in the world around him. He attended Norcrest Elementary, Crystal Lake Middle School, and finally he completed and graduated from Blanche Ely High School. He enjoyed indulging in the complexities of math, the logic of science, and the rich stories woven through history. He was a thinker, a dreamer, and an artist. Drawing wasn’t just a hobby for him. It was an escape, a passion, and a way of seeing the world through his own vibrant lens. Anime inspired his creativity and mirrored the strength he carried quietly within. Whether he was laughing at an episode, explaining a complex storyline, or getting lost in a new piece of art, Marc-Ely showed that even in the face of hardship, life could still be beautiful, still be interesting, still deeply lived.

Marc-Ely was a gentle, creative, and determined young man whose light shone even through the darkest of days. Despite the physical challenges he faced from a young age, he never let his condition define him. He had a heart for learning and a spirit that never gave up. Whether he was painting in Art club, participating in YMCA activities, or proudly earning an A+ on a high school art project, Marc-Ely poured his passion into everything he did. He played the clarinet for two years in middle school and later joined the drumline in high school, playing snare drum during his freshman year. Though his health often kept him out of the classroom, he continued to give his best—earning recognition for his kindness, perseverance, and dedication. In 2018–2019, he was honored as the Most Outstanding Student of the Year, a testament to both his character and his commitment to excellence. Marc-Ely loved soccer, even if he couldn’t always play, and brought the same enthusiasm to everything he tried. His life was a quiet but powerful example of strength, resilience, and heart.

Marc-Ely was not only full of talent and kindness but deeply rooted in his faith. At just 14 years old, he made the personal decision to be baptized at Bethlehem Seventh-day Adventist Church in 2018—a moment that reflected the depth of his love for God. He carried his faith with quiet strength and often burst out in spontaneous songs of praise, filling the room with joy and reverence. Despite his young age, Marc-Ely was remarkably wise. He often offered thoughtful, grounded words that brought clarity and comfort to those around him. His perspective was steady, his spirit calm, and his heart open. Whether in moments of pain or peace, Marc-Ely’s trust in God never wavered. He was a living testament to grace under pressure, and his life remains a powerful reminder that faith, joy, and wisdom can thrive—even during trials.

Marc-Ely’s journey took a difficult turn in October 2024 when he suffered a severe stroke brought on by a sickle cell crisis. Doctors were uncertain he would survive, but through the prayers, fasting, and unwavering faith of loved ones near and far, God heard the collective cry for healing—and graciously granted Marc more time. More time to laugh, to be surrounded by love, and to pour out even more of his gentle spirit. Though he faced that storm with courage, another sickle cell crisis emerged on March 17, 2025, impacting blood flow to his liver. Despite every effort and countless prayers, Marc-Ely passed away on March 20 due to multi-system organ failure. He fought bravely until the end, wrapped in love, faith, and the presence of those who never stopped believing in him. His life, though filled with trials, was also overflowing with purpose, grace, and deep love.

Marc-Ely taught us how to endure grace, how to love without limits, and how to worship with reverence. His memory will continue to inspire all who knew him.

Marc-Ely is survived by his MOTHER Marie Carmelle Jean; FATHER Irveltz Lafleur; SIBLINGS: Christopher Lafleur, Dodelhey Lafleur, Elcarla Lafleur, Eveline and Tianna Lafleur; AUNTS: Mislene Pettit-Frere, Margarette Philogene, Guerda Otaris, Nancy Omler, Imacular Lafleur, Loane Lafleur, and Cammelle Williams; UNCLES: Joanel Jean, Sam Omler, Robert-Pierre, Jacques-Henry lafleur, Annecy Lafleur, and Jhony Williams; GRANDMOTHER: Rose-Marie Louisiana Lafleur and his COUSINS: Djina Philogene, JulinePhilogene Edmond, Walkens Jean, Walby Philogene, Jonathan Philogene, Joshua Philogene, Erode Jean, Jeffery Jean, Jeanne Petit-Frere, Dudley Otaris, Kenisha Otaris, Gabriel Otaris, Isaiah Otaris, Love Naika Jean, Brion Jean, Lewis Jean, Jaylen Jean, Magdaline Thelemaque, Daphne Lafleur, Oneisha Lafleur, Anna Lafleur, Abigaelle Lafleur, Arianna Lafleur, Christelle Omler, Christina Omler, and Christancy Omler.

Condolences to all the members of Bethlehem SDA Church, who loved Marc-Ely dearly and treated him as their own.

Condolences to the Pierre family, Jean family, Lafleur family, Otaris family, Philogene family, Casimir family, Eugene family, Edouard family, St. Hillaire family, Charles family, Charitable family, Paul family, Belizaire family, Louissant family, Lovince family, Samar family, Romero family, Fatal family, Philamar family, St. Fleur family, Ceus family, Esperance family, Toussaint family, and Telusma family.

May the peace of God, which passes all understanding, keep your hearts and minds through Jesus Christ.