Joseph Jean - Pierre

Joseph Jean-Pierre, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and cherished member of his
community, passed away peacefully on August 10th

, 2024, at the age of 88. Born on September
23, 1935, in Croix-Des-Bouquets, Haiti, Joseph was an embodiment of charisma, dedication,
selflessness, and love. He was the son of Ocelia and Trajan Jean-Pierre and one of seven siblings.
Joseph’s early years were marked by a deep commitment to education and faith. He completed
his secondary education at Lycée Toussaint Louverture and furthered his studies at École
Normale d'Instituteur. In 1967, he received a scholarship to teach French in Liberia, Africa an
opportunity that paved the way for his eventual immigration to the United States in 1970. There,
he pursued a bachelor’s degree in teaching at Nyack College, eventually dedicating his career to
serving others as a phlebotomist and later as an elementary teacher for P.S. 186 Castlewood in
Bellerose, New York.
On August 27, 1966, Joseph married the love of his life, Lina Cadet. Their 58-year marriage was
a partnership defined by love, laughter, perseverance and faith. Joseph is survived by his loving
wife, Lina; his children, Pascal, Lynda, and Joseph; his grandchildren, Adams, Josiah, Arthur,
Jean-Manuel, and Gibson; and his siblings, Milord, Jeanine, and Marie-Thérese. He is also
survived by his 14 nieces, 7 nephews, numerous great-nephews and nieces, and countless friends
and loved ones. He was preceded in death by his niece, Gabrielle; his sisters, Charity and
Antoinnette; and his brother, Gabriel.
A man of profound Catholic faith, Joseph’s early aspirations to become a priest were evident in
his lifelong devotion to Jesus Christ. As a young boy, he served as an altar server and later
contributed significantly to his future church communities. At St. Theresa of Avila Church in
South Ozone Park, Queens, he served as a choir member, an extraordinary minister, and
participated in nocturnal adoration weekly for over 15 years. His commitment continued for 17
years at Blessed Sacrament Church in Valley Stream, New York, where he was an active member
of the Knights of Columbus, the Legion of Mary Auxiliary, and the Haitian Community of Valley
Stream (HACOV).
“Joe” will be remembered for his big heart, spirited laugh, and loud thunderous voice. His jovial
spirit could be displayed through his love for dancing, partying, storytelling, teaching, and time
spent with loved ones. This jovial spirit permeated through his selfless nature, often sacrificing
his time and resources for those he deeply cared for.
He approached life with a no-nonsense attitude but smiled and laughed every step of the way. A
man deeply convicted in his faith. A man who lived that conviction all the way through his
American Dream.
Joseph Jean-Pierre’s memory will be cherished by all who knew him, and his legacy of love will
continue to inspire those he left behind.