Edith Jean-Francois

It is with both sorrow and deep gratitude for a life richly lived that we announce the passing of Edith Jean-François, who departed this life on April 27, 2025, at the age of 78. Born on July 7, 1946, in Miragoâne, Haiti, Edith was the beloved daughter of Edmond Jean-François and Maria Jean-François.

A gifted seamstress from a young age, Edith had a rare talent for creating beauty from fabric. Her craftsmanship was known throughout her community—people would come from near and far for her impeccable clothing and her unmatched ability to alter and repair garments. What she touched, she made better, both in thread and in spirit.

Edith was a woman of fierce independence, unwavering will, and sharp wit. Never one to hold back her words, she recently reminded those around her, “My body may be sick, but my mouth is not.” She was outspoken and tenacious, yet her heart was quick to forgive. She fought hard, loved deeply, and always found her way back to peace.

Above all, Edith was deeply devoted to her faith. A proud and practicing Catholic, her belief in God was the foundation of her strength and her daily life. She passed on these values of faith, hard work, and perseverance to her family, who were the center of her world.

Edith is lovingly remembered by her son, Patrick Joseph, her daughters Belinda Joseph and Chantal Jean-François, her cherished grandchildren Stephane Joseph, Guy Desrosiers, and Samantha Joseph, and her daughter-in-law Guetty Nelson. Her legacy of resilience, creativity, and faith will continue to live on through them and all who were blessed to know her.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, May 8th, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM. A funeral mass celebrating her life will take place on Friday, May 9th, at 10:00 AM at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Spring Valley, NY.

Edith Jean-François sewed joy into the lives of many—her hands crafted garments, but her words and spirit stitched together a lifetime of memories and love. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.