Grazia Duchatelier

It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of a beloved Wife, Mother, Sister, Aunt, and Great- Aunt Grazia Duchatelier who peacefully left us in her sleep on March 7th, 2025.  Grazia was affectionately known as Fifi by all her family and close friends.

Grazia was born into a close-knit family in Port-Au-Prince Haiti to Alice Wainwright and Gabriel Brouard. Grazia grew up with her sister Anne-Marie Therese Roland, and her brother Max; both who preceded her in death. She was extremely close to her sister Anne-Marie; her sister was her best friend, and confident. She was raised with strong Christian values. She was characterized by her love, her family, her devotion to her Church, her generous spirit, and her sense of community.

In 1975, Grazia and Louis P. G Duchatelier were married, and remained married for 50 years till her untimely passing. Their union was a testament to enduring love and mutual respect. Together, they have one daughter, Gina Duchatelier.

While growing up In Haiti, her greatest passion was being a designer and seamstress. She enjoyed creating her own designs and creating beautiful dresses for herself, her family, and her close friends. This skill became a cherished part of her identity, reflecting her meticulous nature and creative flair. Grazia also enjoyed going to the beach and spending time with her friends. Every weekend, she would go dancing with her friends, relishing the joyful moments and creating lasting memories.

In the early 70s, Grazia left Haiti, and moved to the United States from Haiti in pursuit of better career opportunities. Her journey was one of courage and determination, as she sought to create opportunities not only for herself but also for her family. Grazia worked at European American Bank as an Administrative Clerk until her retirement in 2005.

In the United States, Grazia continued to work on being a seamstress in her spare time. Her passion for creating beautiful dresses remained undiminished, and she often found solace in her creative pursuits. Grazia also loved to cook and feed people, turning her home into a center of warmth and hospitality. She cherished having people around her at all times, always seeking to bring joy and laughter to those she loved. Grazia would throw parties on the weekends, delighting in being the life of the party. Her gatherings were filled with music, dance, and the aromatic flavors of her delicious cooking, creating a welcoming atmosphere that drew friends and family together.

Her dedication to nurturing those around her was evident in every aspect of her life. Grazia's home was a sanctuary of love and laughter, a place where memories were made and cherished. Her nurturing spirit extended beyond her immediate family. Grazia took in foster children for many years, providing them with a loving and stable home, and her generosity and compassion deeply impacted their lives. She also volunteered tirelessly at her church, sharing her devotion and kindness with the community. Grazia's selflessness was evident in all facets of her life, as she continually sought ways to give back and support others.

Grazia also enjoyed traveling; her goal was to visit as many countries as possible. Everyone who traveled with her remarked on her boundless energy. Vacations with Grazia were never about rest and relaxation. She was always up and ready to explore around 6:00am every morning, often declaring, "There is no time to waste; sleep when you get home." Her zest for life, infectious laughter, and enthusiasm made every journey unforgettable. Those who had the privilege of traveling with her couldn't help but feel invigorated and joyous in her presence.

Her warmth, kindness, and unwavering love touched the lives of all who knew her. Her life was a testament to the power of compassion, generosity, love, and the beauty of an enduring spirit. She leaves behind a legacy of cherished memories and a family who will forever hold her in their hearts.

Grazia is survived by her husband Louis Duchatelier, her daughter Gina Duchatelier, her niece Chantale Roland-Justin, her grand-nieces Jenny Dossous-Jennings, Sabrina Roche, great grand nieces and nephews Brianna Jenice Pugh, Leonov Simon, Cameron Jennings, Ivanov Simon, and Amaya Jennings, and her godchildren.

A Home-Going celebration will be held in honor of Grazia on Saturday, March 15th, 2025, at St. Boniface Church in Elmont, NY, at 9:30am. The Viewing will be held at O’Brien-Sheipe Funeral Home located at 640 Elmont Road, Elmont, NY 11003. The burial will take place at Pinelawn Memorial Park and Arboretum in Farmingdale, NY, at 11:30am.

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