Jean Joseph Raphael Durand

In loving memory of Jean Joseph Raphael Durand, We gather to honor the life of a courageous and loving man who prioritized protecting his family, providing a home, putting food on the table, and instilling respect in his children." Although he was given the name Jean Joseph Raphael Durand, he was also affectionately known and called "Raphael" by his family and those who knew him.

Born in Haiti, Raphael was the third of four children and the last surviving sibling of his family of origin. From a young age, Raphael was courageous, strong-willed, and full of spirit. Believing he might have a calling, his family sent him to a monastery with hopes that he would become a priest. Life, however, had other plans. While at the monastery, Raphael met the woman (Lumena Germain-Durand) who would become his wife and the mother of his children. He became a husband and a father, building a family that became his greatest legacy. Raphael was blessed with seven children His first born Murlande Durand, who has since passed away, followed by Gerardine Auguste, Shawn Durand, Dapheney Jean Baptiste, Raphael Junior Durand, Raphael Benjamin Durand, and Emmanuel Durand. He was also a grandfather to three grandchildren: Justin Auguste, Fabrice Auguste, and Dari Banks.

He taught his children to be respectful, strong, and to stand together, protect their family, and uphold love. These lessons were passed down to his grandchildren as well. His fierce devotion to family became a lasting legacy and a lesson that continues through the generations.

Though life brought distance and challenges, Raphael remained connected to his family. His children carried their love for him across states and even countries, from New York to Florida, Texas, and Haiti. In his later years, Raphael faced even more difficult health challenges. Through those years, his children continued to care for him and surround him with love.

Gerardine, in particular, stood by his side through his hospitalizations, while her siblings remained involved and supportive remotely. Together, they helped ensure that he was cared for. After many difficult days in the hospital, he was finally able to return home. He passed away peacefully on Thursday evening, two days after returning home. Today, we remember him not only for the hardships of his final years, but for the fierce, loving man from Haiti, who built a family and whose legacy lives on in his children and grandchildren.

Dad, your journey on this earth has come to an end, but the story you began continues through us. “Your children carry your name, your grandchildren carry your legacy, we carry your memories. We will miss you!

"May you rest in peace and may your memory be a blessing”.

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