Marie D'Empaire

Today, we gather in love, gratitude, and remembrance to honor the life of a truly remarkable woman — Marie Altagrace Yvanne D'empaire.

Yvanne was born on December 5, 1942, in Gonaïves, Haiti, to her devoted parents: Feliciene Durant, a caring and diligent homemaker, and Pastor Franck Dempaire, a man of deep faith and wisdom. From them, she inherited compassion, discipline, and an unwavering trust in God — qualities that shaped every facet of her life.

After completing high school and four years of college, Yvanne dedicated more than 40 years to the Haitian National Education system as a secretary. She was respected for her professionalism, admired for her gentle spirit, and loved for the kindness she extended to everyone she met. Her lifelong commitment to education reflected her belief in service — not only to herself, but to her community and her country.

Above all her accomplishments, her greatest pride and joy was her family.

She was the devoted mother of her only son, Jean Frederick Hector, whom she cherished with all her heart. She raised him with patience, prayer, and steadfast love. When Jean married Carthia, Yvanne embraced her with open arms, loving her as her own daughter. Their connection was warm, respectful, and filled with genuine affection.

Her heart grew even fuller with the arrival of her grandchildren — Victoria, Ishmael, and Zyrah Hector. They were her sunshine, her laughter, and her everyday joy. She adored them deeply, sharing with them stories of faith, heritage, and resilience that will remain with them for a lifetime.

Yvanne also held her family roots close. She shared a special bond with her twin brother, Yvon, and with Remy Dempaire, both of whom have gone ahead to be with the Lord. Though they are no longer with us physically, their legacy endures through their children, and through the many cousins and relatives who were dear to their hearts.

One of the greatest blessings in Yvanne’s life was her more than fifty-year friendship with Elza — a sister in every way that mattered. Their journey together was filled with laughter, shared memories, mutual support, and prayer. Their bond stood as a testament to enduring and unconditional friendship.

Those who knew Yvanne will remember her as a woman of grace, strength, humility, and compassion. Her faith was steady, her words gentle, and her presence brought comfort and peace. She touched hearts quietly but profoundly, leaving behind a legacy of love that will live on in all of us.

Today, as we mourn her passing, we also celebrate her life. We give thanks for her love, her wisdom, her kindness, and the example she set.

Yvanne, your light will never fade.

Your memory will live on through your son, your grandchildren, your daughter-in-law, your nieces and nephews, your cousins, your lifelong friends, and all who were blessed to know you.

May your soul rest in God’s eternal embrace.

We love you, and we will never forget you.