Joseph Urbain Jean-Paul

Joseph Urbain Jean-Paul was born to Pierre Adam Jean-Paul and Jeanne Clairduna Racine on May 30, in Saut-d’Eau, Haiti. He was a devoted father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. Joseph transitioned on Thursday, June 1, 2023 at the age of 88.

Joseph celebrated 62 years of marriage to his wife Marie Aline this past January. He will be sadly missed by his wife Marie; his children: Carole Jean-Paul of Deland, FL, Garry “Bilal” Jean-Paul of Decatur, GA, Gina Holmes (Ronald) of DeBary, FL, Sabine Robinson (Jessie) of Deland, FL, Elizabeth “Anoa” Jean Paul of Harlem, NY, Astrid “Aisha” Jean-Paul of Tampa, FL and Myriam Delien (Auriole) of Deland, FL; his 15 grandchildren, his 7 great-grandchildren, and many siblings, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends, all of whom will hold his memory dear.

As Haitian immigrants coming to the United States with young children, Joseph and his wife Marie wanted nothing more than an opportunity to provide for their family. Through the years, Joseph and Marie owned numerous properties, worked several jobs at a time to ensure their children would have the opportunity to flourish in the U.S. They selflessly sponsored many family members who immigrated from Haiti to give them some of those same opportunities. They worked hard, stayed together, and built a wonderful life.

Despite his hardships (and there were many), Joseph lived a life of perseverance. Joseph fought his battle against cancer for nearly twenty years. Joseph was keen on researching natural and holistic remedies, and he loved planting in his herb garden. We believe that this extended his time with us.

Throughout his entire journey, he enjoyed spending time with his family, playing games, keeping a close watch on the stock market, and loved having good-natured banter about politics. He was a self taught computer tech, and he loved the latest tech gadgets. Although he was a serious-natured person, he had a kind heart, and a great ability to make others smile.

Anyone who knows Joseph knows that he has always enjoyed a good game of dominoes. He loved Western movies, and also enjoyed listening to classical music.

Joseph LOVED to look good. He was a sophisticated, suave, and debonair gentleman who enjoyed dressing nicely and wearing his gold jewelry. Even while he was being cared for, he always wanted to know that his gold necklaces and watch were nearby.

He will always be remembered by those of us who knew him and loved him. May his soul rest in peace.

“Therefore, you too have grief now: but I will see you again, and your heart will rejoice, and no one will take your joy away from you.” John 16:22

A visitation for Joseph will take place at 10am to 11am on Saturday, June 17, 2023 at Deltona Memorial Funeral Home & Gardens, 1295 Saxon Blvd., Orange City, FL 32763, followed by a Celebration of Life beginning at 11:00 am.