Solange Francoise Devaux

Solange was a beloved sister, aunt and friend; born on October 30th, 1935, to Roger and Colombe Devaux in Chateauroux, France, she was the third eldest of 6 siblings, whom she continued to stay close with throughout her life. After both parents passed, Solange moved to New York City in 1970 and built a career she enjoyed immensely, working in the Financial District for European American Bank. It was here that she cultivated many cherished, lifelong friendships, of which she maintained a steady correspondence until it became too burdensome in her last year.

In the mid 1980’s, Solange moved to Maryland to be closer to family. She began a career in payroll with Proctor & Gamble (originally known as Noxell), where she eventually retired after 20 years of service. She had again established many lifelong friendships there and truly enjoyed the work as well as the camaraderie during her final working years.

Throughout her life, Solange was a tireless supporter of her church, community and friends. She was a member of the choir at St. Joseph’s Parish for over 20 years and was always willing to help out wherever possible. Once retired, she spent countless hours volunteering at various local hospitals and soup kitchens (Our Daily Bread), as well as participating in weekly Eucharistic Adoration at the Church of the Immaculate Conception.

Though she loved her family and friends dearly, nothing could rival her love of children. Anyone who knew her well became accustomed to her skipping out mid-conversation to make a beeline to a toddler that may have entered the room - restaurants, doctor’s offices, grocery stores or the like. No little one was spared a “Hello! Hi! What’s your name?” whilst shaking their little fingers. Solange would light up during these encounters, and you couldn’t help but smile to watch her. I think all would agree that the heavens have forever gained an additional patron saint of children.

Solange is predeceased by her parents and siblings Marie-Therese Brown, Francois Devaux, Michel Devaux and Jean-Louis Devaux. She leaves behind sisters Marguerite and her husband Jerome Barton, Dominque Valentine and sisters-in-law Aglae Devaux and Francoise Devaux. She is also greatly missed by many nieces and nephews currently spread throughout France and the U.S.

The family would like to give a heartfelt thank you to all of those that supported our efforts throughout the last couple of years - it truly does take a village:

To her condo family – she loved all of you dearly and so appreciated the check-ins and visits. It gave her peace knowing that she was surrounded with such love and support.

To Deb and Terrence Murphy who kept us stocked in homemade meals throughout the entire year - words cannot express our gratitude.

To her nieces and nephews who made a special trip from France to spend time with her – Elle t’aimait tellement et sera toujours avec toi…

And lastly, to all of the family and friends that gave support, advice, and made visits – YOU helped to make it all possible.

The Memorial service will be held at St. Joseph’s Parish,100 Church Lane in Cockeysville, Maryland, 21030, on Friday, September 20, 2024 at 11am, with the reception immediately following at Joe’s Café, directly across the street from the church.

For those who cannot attend, streaming will be available at:

https://www.youtube.com/live/TcmA1U_mW5U