Yolette Ferdinand Petit-Frere

Yolette Ferdinand Petit-Frere, a woman of strength, faith, and love, peacefully passed away at the age of 70 on July 19, 2023. Born in the picturesque town of Port Margot, Haiti, to her late parents, Mannevil Ferdinand and Antonia Gedeusma Ferdinand, she was the cherished and only daughter among 16 siblings. From a young age, Yolette's adventurous spirit and thirst for knowledge led her to leave her countryside hometown for Port-au-Prince, where she pursued her education and honed her skills in sewing, cooking, and various creative endeavors. It was during this time that her passion for fashion ignited, and she found joy in expressing her creativity through her designs.

 

Throughout her life, Yolette's faith was her guiding light, providing her with comfort and strength in all circumstances. In August of 1981, she embarked on a transformative journey to the United States, settling in New York. It was there that she not only found new opportunities but also found love. In 1985, she joyfully embraced motherhood, welcoming her first son into the world with boundless love and dedication.

 

Destiny once again played its part, rekindling a flame with a childhood friend named Jean Petit-Frere. Their love story flourished, and in 1991, they exchanged vows, solidifying their commitment to each other and their growing family. In 1992, Yolette welcomed her second son, followed by the arrival of her cherished daughter in 1994. Her children were the center of her universe, and she adored them with unwavering love and care.

 

With her family expanding, Yolette recognized the need for a fresh start and more space to nurture her loved ones. In 1996, she made the bold decision to move to the vibrant city of Philadelphia, where she quickly embraced her new community and formed lasting friendships with her warm and nurturing nature.

 

In 1997, God blessed her with the arrival of one more son, completing her family and bringing immense joy to her heart. Yolette adored all of her children and always made them a priority, guiding them with love and wisdom.

 

Throughout her illustrious career, Yolette wore many hats, serving as an entrepreneur, seamstress, nurse, teacher, and interpreter. Her dedication to helping others and her versatile talents left a lasting impact on the lives she touched.

 

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Yolette's faith remained at the core of her being. She always placed God first in everything she did and found immense joy in spreading the word of the Lord, studying the scriptures, and traveling with friends to explore the wonders of the world.

 

Yolette leaves behind a loving family to cherish her memory, including her husband, Jean Petit-Frere; sons Gaensli Duvervil and Jethro Petit-Frere; daughter Lothy Esther Petit-Frere; grandsons Jaedan George Duvervil and Ethan Ace Duvervil; step-daughters Vanessa and Naomi and their children; a host of extended families including the Ferdinand Family, Petit-Frere Family, Dubreil Family and Gurerrier Family. She is predeceased by her brother, Georges Ferdinand and son, Richard Petit-Frere.

 

As we bid farewell to this extraordinary woman, let us celebrate the beautiful life she lived, the love she shared, and the faith that guided her journey. Yolette Ferdinand's legacy of love, devotion, and service will forever be treasured by her family, friends, and all those whose lives she touched. May her soul rest in eternal peace, surrounded by the love and memories she left behind.