Dearest Françoise,
You have been a schoolmate, a “cousin par alliance” and a friend forever.
My adolescent memories in Haiti evoke you as a leader who entertained classmates in the school yard of Chez Mme Paillère, telling jokes , making everyone laugh with your love stories. But you also spooked us with the dreadful deeds of Papa Doc and the Tontons Macoutes.
You were deeply loved and appreciated by many because you were genuine, kind, non-judgmental and fair. On the tennis court and in Math class, you were competitive but always displayed fairplay. I recall the time when I scored the highest grade in Algebra on my report card, you congratulated me.
My adult memories in Miami evoke you as an avid reader of classical French literature, world history, and politics. Your entourage enjoyed listening to you argue and debate on world current issues, the U.S. and Miami. Your deep knowledge and great memory on facts made your company most exciting.
You were also admired for your multi-talents, as a gardener and a gourmet chef. I thought of you as our own version
Martha Stewart.
Dear Françoise, i am so grateful to you for
those wonderful memories!
As we say goodbye, know that your legacy of love, strength and faith will continue to guide us forever until we meet again.
Rest in peace, dear Françoise.
Love ❤️
Shirley Rose
