Dr. Yvan Joseph Francillon

https://player.memoryshare.com/memoryshare/video/yvan-francillon-8060427

Dr. Yvan Joseph Francillon, born on December 12, 1955, in Bainet, Haiti, to Hebert and Myrtha Francillon, passed away on October 11, 2024, surrounded by his loved ones. He is survived by his beloved wife, Christine Francillon, with whom he shared a marriage of over four decades. Together, they created a life full of love and commitment. Yvan was a proud father of Ludwig Francillon (Esta’) and Sophia Kennedy (Marcus) and a cherished “Papa” to Isabella (11), Amelia (9), Elliot (6), Evan (3), and Elijah (1).

Yvan's passion for medicine and serving others shaped the course of his life. After graduating from Centre d’Études Secondaires in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Yvan pursued his medical degree at Faculté de Médecine et de Pharmacie, where he graduated in September 1981. Following his medical education, he and Christine moved to New York in 1984 in pursuit of a better future for their family. With this move, Yvan experienced many challenges as a foreign medical graduate in search of residency positions. Through perseverance and hard work, he completed his residency in pathology at Howard University Hospital in Washington, DC, in 1994, followed by a fellowship in surgical pathology at The University of Alabama at Birmingham in 1995.

In August 1996, Yvan’s career brought him to Montgomery, Alabama, where he joined the Central Alabama Veterans Health Care System (CAVHCS). He progressed to the role of Chief of Laboratory and Pathology Service, a position he held with great pride. To this day, he is one of the few people we know who consistently said, “I love my job,” and often bragged about there being no upper age limit for practicing pathology. He shared his love of pathology with anyone and everyone, always extending an open invitation to observe an autopsy. His colleagues at the VA became like family to him, and even during the height of his illness, Yvan's concern for his workplace and patients never wavered. He was a dedicated professional who always found joy in his work and was deeply committed to the veterans he served.

Yvan was a man of many passions. In addition to pathology, he loved photography, capturing moments of beauty throughout his life, and had a deep appreciation for artwork, collecting pieces from his travels. Traveling, sharing meals with loved ones, and spending time with his family, particularly his grandchildren, brought him immense joy. He also had a soft spot for dogs, especially his dog, Stella, with whom he shared a special bond. Stella was always by his side, fiercely protective of him, offering comfort and love.

Faith played a significant role in Yvan’s life. He was committed to serving as the spiritual leader of his family, encouraging his children to consistently attend and participate in church. He was a devoted member of City of St. Jude Catholic Church, where he proudly sang in the choir. His generosity and kindness were felt by many, always willing to lend a hand and help those in need. In addition to monetary contributions, Yvan also contributed his time by volunteering at the soup kitchen alongside other members of the church.

He believed in the importance of integrity, hard work, and family values, lessons he instilled in his children. Dr. Yvan Joseph Francillon’s legacy is one of compassion, dedication, and love. He touched the lives of many through his family, work, and community. He will be dearly missed but never forgotten.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to The Haitian American Association of Alabama (HAAOA) in memory of Dr. Yvan Francillon. Please visit https://haaoa.org to donate.