Jules Jerome Duvalsaint

Born on March 5, 1939, in Petite Reviere de L’artibonite, Haiti, Jules was the son of Eutepcie (Louissaint) and Gentilhomme Duvalsaint. His early education took place at Les Frères de L’Instruction Chrétienne in St. Marc, followed by his high school years at St. Louis de Gonzague in Port-au-Prince.

In 1960, driven by his aspirations and the desire to join his siblings, Jules embarked on a journey to New York City. There, he immersed himself in his studies, earning a diploma in Electronics from RCA Institute. While still pursuing his education, he worked at Western Electric from 1963 to 1966.

In 1966, Jules continued his academic journey by attending night school at City College, where he eventually obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering in 1967. His dedication and hard work led him to join IBM in 1967, where he furthered his education, earning his Master’s Degree in Electrical Engineering from Syracuse University in 1971.

Jules had the necessary credits to pursue a Ph.D., but unfortunately, he was unable to complete his thesis due to unforeseen circumstances. Despite this setback, his remarkable achievements and contributions to the field of electrical engineering left an indelible mark.

Jules, a dedicated IBM employee for 35 years, traveled extensively to various countries, including Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, Japan, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Singapore, and Spain. His family was his priority, and he declined relocation opportunities to ensure their stability. He worked in Poughkeepsie and Armonk, New York, and also in North Carolina for nine months, commuting to his job and returning home each weekend. During his career, he volunteered and served on the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Board of Examiners for the United States Department of Commerce. In 2000, he moved to Coral Springs, Florida, and continued to work from home until his retirement.

Jules married his wife, Gisele Bernard, in December 1964. They had known each other in Haiti and reconnected in New York on a fateful night on a subway platform. Despite only dating for six months, they married and remained devoted to each other for 61 years.

After retirement, Jules volunteered as an AARP Defensive Driving Instructor. He enjoyed going to the gym, swimming, dancing, playing Sudoku, and the casino. He was an avid soccer fan, having played in his youth. He also enjoyed watching football, tennis, Wheel of Fortune and playing dominoes.

Jules, known for his unwavering dedication to family and education and also his calming demeanor, was a beloved figure in his family and friends’ lives. Despite his reserved nature, when surrounded by loved ones, he would let out a hearty laugh that could be heard from far away.

Jules is survived by his wife, Gisele; their daughter, Gina Duvalsaint; his brothers, Henry Duvalsaint and Murat Excellent; his sisters, Vierge Excellent, Elia Duvalsaint, Rose Andre and Laurette; and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.

During this difficult time, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude for your unwavering love and support. Your prayers, presence, and kindness have been invaluable to us during this challenging time.

REPAST to follow immediately after the service:

Kasa Champet Restaurant and Lounge

7920 Pines Blvd, Pembroke Pines, FL 33024

954-983-5046

12:30pm - 4:00pm

In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made in Jules Honor to the Parkinson's Foundation https://www.parkinson.org/node/79 https://www.parkinson.org/?form=19983