Yelva Simeon

Yelva’s story began on December 3, 1957, in the vibrant heart of Port-au-Prince, Haiti, born to her beloved parents, Marie Georgette Comice-Simeon and Jean Barionex Simeon. It was in Haiti that she laid the educational foundation of her youth, completing her secondary schooling before taking a bold and courageous leap in 1983 to migrate to the United States.

To know Yelva, or Vavoune as she was fondly referred to, was to know a nurturer and a carer in the truest sense of the words. She didn't just care for people because it was her job; she cared for people because it was her calling. Earning certifications to advance her career as a Direct Support Specialist/Provider, Yelva poured her immense capacity for love and patience into helping others. She was someone who naturally looked out for the vulnerable, lifted up the weary, and made sure everyone around her felt seen and supported. She dedicated close to 50 years in service to the disabled and elderly.

Her servant's heart extended deeply into her spiritual home. Vavoune participated wholeheartedly and lovingly in her church. She was a fisher of men, finishing her evangelism training in 2003. Whether she was lifting her voice in praise with the choir, welcoming congregants with a warm smile as an usher, or faithfully heading the church's food pantry to feed those in need, Vavoune was hands-on in her ministry. She didn't just talk about faith; she lived it through endless acts of service.

Yet, Yelva was so much more than her work and her service—she was a force of nature, a people person through and through. She was remarkably charismatic, possessing that rare kind of energy that lit up a room. Vavoune never met a stranger. While it was often said that Vavoune could be a little "annoying" at times, but she was always, always so much fun. She could strike up a lively conversation with anyone: a neighbor across the street, a complete stranger in a grocery store line, or a lifelong friend. Making friends wasn't something she tried to do; it was simply who she was. Approachable, open-hearted, and warm, she drew people into her orbit effortlessly.

Away from her bustling social life and service, Yelva had passions that brought her immense joy. She loved to garden—getting her hands into the earth to plant vibrant flowers, neat hedges, and fruitful vegetables, watching life bloom under her careful touch. And for all her grace and nurturing spirit, Yelva had a delightfully unexpected side: she loved wrestling and action movies. She appreciated grit, excitement, and a good storyline, proving that Yelva was dynamic, spirited, and full of wonderful surprises.

Yelva Simeon lived a life of color, service, laughter, and relentless love. She leaves behind a legacy rooted in faith, nurtured by her own two hands, and carried forward in the hearts of everyone lucky enough to cross her path.

As we say goodbye to Yelva today, let us remember her infectious laughter, her endless conversations with strangers who became friends, and the deep, abiding care she gave this world.

Rest in peace, Yelva. You fought the good fight, you ran your race with joy, and you will be deeply missed.