Born in Port-Au-Prince, Haiti, Marie Odette Janvier embarked on her life's journey as the second of (14) children to Josapha Janvier and Mercedes Jean. At the age of 15, she attended Croix Des Mission school to pursue her passion for sewing and became a skilled couturier within her community. When she wasn't creating garments, Marie Odette sold milk locally and in neighboring villages in Haiti. At the age of 25, she met and married her late husband, Jean Saint Jean Gelin, and together they raised four beloved children: Marie Guelene Janvier, Marie Eugenie Cantave, Marie Sillange Gelin, and Jean Yves Gelin, who survive her.
In August 1994, Marie Odette migrated to the United States of America, where she made a profound impact on her grandchildren's lives. She lovingly taught them to speak Creole, cared for them, and fervently prayed for them every night. She faithfully served in the women's ministry of the First Haitian Church of God in Roselle, where she was warmly welcomed and cherished by many. Her joy knew no bounds when she praised and danced, often finding solace in her favorite praise song, "Gade Gwoson Bondye Mwen Ginyen." Known for her kindness, she made it a point to embrace and greet as many people as she could after church.
Marie Odette leaves behind a legacy of love, as she is survived by (15) grandchildren, (11) great-grandchildren, and (1) great-great-grandchild. Her cherished grandchildren are Rubens Janvier, Jimmy Janvier, the late Yves Rener Janvier, Stanley Janvier, Roody Janvier, Yvogenyh Cantave, Whalshamyh Cantave, Zaskyh Cantave, Berlyh Tamarah Cantave, Jamenson Colomb, Marie Ludjie Colomb, Mithsuka Colomb, Giveton Gelin, Giveson Gelin, and Givedy Gelin. Her great-grandchildren are Naëca Janvier, Rebecca Janvier, Stanly Janvier Jr., Cakje Janvier, Laura Janiver, Abigail Janvier, Tyonne Joel Cook, Zephania Cantave, Asher Melchizedek Cantave, Adele Marie Cantave, and Emil Colomb. Her only great-great-grandchild is Jaden Felix.
On May 13, 2023, Marie Odette Janvier was called home to be with the Lord, where we are certain she will continue to sing praises and dance in the presence of her Heavenly Father.
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