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Irmis Duzant Obituary
She was born on Aug. 20, 1929, in Grand Case, St. Martin, the daughter of the late Ann Hodge. Irmis, affectionately known as "Ma" or "Pumpkin", spent her earlier years on the island of St. Martin, then lived for a short time in Aruba before traveling to New London, where she made her happy home.
From this home, Ma nurtured 12 children with prayer, discipline, and love. She welcomed everyone, family, friends, neighborhood kids, or anyone who walked through her door. No one could ever forget the aroma of her home. The baked cookies, coconut tarts, fried johnny cakes, home made chicken soup, and fish and fungae were always in abundance. The recipe for her famous pistachio cake was featured in The Day. Proof of her cake decorating skills are in the pages of many wedding albums.
Irmis helped support her family by working as a seamstress at Bedge Manufacturing and in the cafeteria at New London High School. Her daughters fondly remember wearing her prom dress creations, Easter outfits, and even bridesmaid dresses.
Irmis is survived by her seven daughters and five sons, Elais Lawrence and husband, Edwin, of Florida, Hugo Gumbs and wife, Lydia, of Florida, Carlos Duzant and wife, Sheryl, of New London, Danie Duzant and wife, Donna, of New London, Gwen Martins of Waterford, Michael Duzant and wife, Cheryl, of New London, Bonnie Hadley of Maryland, Jacqueline Dozier and husband, Jeffrey, of Groton, Claudia Kenyon and husband, Richard, of Waterford, Nicole Johnson and husband, Ralph, of Louisiana, Franklyn Duzant of Florida, and Patricia Swann and husband, Melvin, of New London. She leaves behind 22 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren. Irmis is also survived by a sister and three brothers, Calvin Hodge of New Britain, Vincent Hodge of Hawaii, Barbara Strong of New London, and Andy Hodge of Waterford.
Irmis was predeceased by her grandsons, Sean and Nico Duzant and daughter-in-law, Evangelina Duzant.
Her welcoming smile and distinct accent will resonate in the memories of all who knew and loved her. She will be greatly missed.
Calling hours will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 11, at the Thomas L. Neilan & Sons Funeral Home, 12 Ocean Ave., New London. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. on Thursday at St. Mary Star of the Sea Church in New London. Burial will follow at St. Mary Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to the Covenant Shelter of New London, 42 Jay St., PO Box 1653, New London, CT 06320.
Online condolences may be expressed at Mrs. Duzant's memorial page at www.neilanfuneralhome.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Irmis Duzant
Pat Hodge
December 24, 2013
God Bless the Duzant/Hodge Family on this Christmas Eve!
I know it is very difficult to try and enjoy Christmas without your beloved Mother/Sister/Grandmother Ermis but I know she would want all of you to be happy and have big smiles on your faces as you give and receive your gifts.
She has already given her gift to each and every one of you...I wish you the strength to move forward with your lives and make her proud! Her and Nicholas will be watching over you! Cherish all those good memories...
Rest in peace Dear, Sweet Ermis!
Maureen Penman
December 15, 2013
Claudia, very sorry about the loss of your mom! May many good memories get you thru!
Stephen Linicus
December 14, 2013
May Mom rest in peace ,with the angel. I remember,coming to the house on bishop court, and always with open arms.
December 13, 2013
Claudia & family, sorry for the loss of your Mom. Our thoughts are with you and your family.
The Discordia's (Orlando, FL)
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December 13, 2013
Claudia and Family,
I'm am so sorry for the loss of your Mother, may your faith be with you at this difficult time. God bless all of you.
Melissa Mei Holmes
Dianne Helligar-Crawford
December 13, 2013
Family, So many memories of Tu's laughter,kindness & love growing up. Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you. Our thoughts & prayers are with you. Much love.
Jeffrey L. Walker
December 12, 2013
Daniel...may I extend my condolences.
Howard Adams
December 12, 2013
Deepest condolences from your EB Test Family
December 12, 2013
To the Duzant family, Please except my deepest sympathy in the loss of your wonderful mother, grandmother and great grandmother. I am sorry I was unable to attend the wake last evening but was thinking of all of you. sincerely, Margaret Cotnoir
Martha Jacques
December 12, 2013
When I first met Mimice in 1971, she welcomed me into her home and family. I loved her as a friend and "other mother" and always will. We had wonderful visits over the years. I will always remember seeing her in her chair by the window in the house on Phillips Street and would stop to say hello. She was a beautiful, warm woman and a great mother. She raised a family whose members will always know and remember her love...and her johnnycakes! Words cannot take away the feeling of loss, but I offer my sincere condolences to the family and everyone who knew and loved her.
Pamela Weinstein
December 11, 2013
My dear Ma, seeing you resting peacefully tonite was bitter sweet as I missed your smile. Family and friends were many as they paid their respect.
i will never forget the first time I came home with Bonnie. An amazing aroma filled the air as Frankie and Patty came running downstairs to see who was in their home.
Your words of wisdom will resonate always as a friendship was formed. Whether Bishop Court or St. Martin, your doors were always open and enough food to feed an army.
I will miss your beautiful smile and your expression of love. As tears come to my eyes, it's my heart that cries for you.
I'm thankful I saw you just before your passing, I will do my best to adhere to your words of encouragement. You will always be in my heart, my children's and my gran's as you have touched us all.
I'm blessed to have another angel in heaven watching over me, I love you, Pam
December 11, 2013
Dear Claudia and family-
I can only imagine the heartbreaking feeling with the loss of your loved one. But I know you are of faith, thankful for all the great years and blessed as you know that one day you will be reunited. May her memory be eternal. Your friend. Ann Buonocore
Vernon Hadley
December 11, 2013
Ma touched everyone in a way that only she could, and once touched, no one forgets. Please accept my deepest simpathy for your loss. My prayers are with you.
Love Vernon
Morris & Donetta Hodge
December 11, 2013
Our sincere condolences. Mimesse was truly prepared to great our Lord. She was always very kind to me and my family and will be surely missed.
Morris and Donetta
Linda Hodge Pagan
December 11, 2013
To my family,The Duzants.
My heart is so full as I try to find words to somehow ease your pain and sorrow. Words will never be able to do that. What will ease your pain is the loving memories of your Mother, the strength she instilled in all of you, the laughter and the tears that you have shared with her, her strong faith and belief in our Lord. Losing Tut Tut is like losing my Mother all over again. Gradually I know this pain will be bearable. Hold on to the fact that she is brand new again, home in the presence of our Lord and all the loved ones that have passed before her, she is lovingly preparing a place for when we all meet again. I love you guys and I pray for strength and peace for you all.
Skiyea Fountain-Nieves
December 11, 2013
I need to correct my baby sister! Mrs. Duzant's mom, Mrs. Hodge did all the store's tailoring! Both were great ladies and I have the best memories of riding my bike to Mrs. Hodge's house with the tailoring each week when i was a kid. Mrs. Duzant's daughter Niki was in St. Marys with me and I always remember Mrs. Duzant smiling and loved her accent. Although it has been many years since i have seen her my thoughts and prayers are with all her family and friends who will truly miss a wonderful person.
David Deckler
December 11, 2013
Mike & Cheryl & The entire Duzant Family!Iam very sorry to hear of your loss of your mother! At least I was able to meet your Mom & Dad In ST.Marrtein will never forget how nice they where and what a great smile they both had when My wife and myself where there in the Island!Take It 1 Day @ A Time!!
Lisa Fountain-Durrett
December 11, 2013
To the family I will always remember from childhood. She did all of my Mom's tailoring for the cleaners years ago. Bless you all with fond memories of her.
Adrienne King
December 11, 2013
Duzant Family,
Our sincerest condolences are sent:
I am the Life and the Light and the Way-
The earth is my Garden.
Each of the Souls I plant as seeds
Germinates and flowers in its season.
And in each I am fulfilled.
There is no cause for grief
When a blossom fades
But only rejoicing for the beauty it held
And praise that my Will is done
And my Plan served.
I am one with all creatures
And none is ever lost
But only restored to me,
Having never left me at all.
For what is Eternal
Cannot be separated from its Source.
I am with you all,
And each of you is a channel for my Light,
Feel my Love
Enfold you now and evermore.
-Book of Runes
Love, Adrienne King Family
pilar medina
December 11, 2013
My deepest condolences to the Duzant family. Your mom was like my second mom. She always opened the door to all us kids in the neighborhood. may she rest in peace
Donna Duzant
December 11, 2013
Elly, Hugo, Carlos, Danie, Gwen, Mike, Bonnie, Madie, Claudie, Nicki, Frankie and Pat,
"There are special people in our lives who never leave us, even after they are gone." Ma's spirit lives on in each and every one of you. May her unconditional love and so many great memories sustain you this day and always.
Love, Donna
Nancy Woodmanseee
December 11, 2013
Nicole & family,
So sorry to hear of your loss! May all your wonderful memories help you through this difficult time!
Sending thoughts and prayers,
Nancy Murray Woodmansee
JOHN JEFFORDS
December 11, 2013
Mike sincerest condolences to you and your family at this sad time -from John & Darlene Jeffords/J.J.
Mike & JoAnn Santangelo
December 10, 2013
Vincent & Andy,
My wife, JoAnn and I would like to offer our condolences on the passing of your sister. I remember when we stayed at her house in St. Martin. She was a beautiful lady. May she rest in peace.
Jo Anne Faraci
December 10, 2013
Gwen, Donna and Family.
My deepest sympathy to all with the passing of your Mom. She sounds like a beautiful soul. You were all very blessed. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Much love,
Aileen Greene
December 10, 2013
To Claudia and the entire Duzant family you have my deepest condolences on the passing of your fine mother. May she rest in peace and carry her joyous spirit with you during this holiday season and forever.
Pamela Hodge
December 10, 2013
My sincerest condolences for the physical loss of Punkin! Her love, smiles and laughter will always live on...
Norma Duzant
December 10, 2013
To all my Cousins,
Accept my condolences in the lost of my beloved Pumpkin,She will always be in my prayers and in my thoughts forever.I wish i could have been there to share this sad ocassion with you all. I will be in spirit.
Love to all
Norma
Troy Duzant
December 10, 2013
There was something that was inside Ma that she owned, no one could duplicate, it was inexpressible. That's what made her great in my eyes.
Norma Duzant
December 10, 2013
To my beloved Pumpkin,Wish I could have been there to say Good bye.
You will be sadly miss.
May you rest in Peace.
Rita Mingo
December 10, 2013
To all her children and extended family .
I know there are no words that can take way the sadness and lost that you all are experiencing at this time,but I hope you all will find comfort in knowing that she is Happy with the Lord.
She has earned that Golden Crown.
I have lost a good and faithful friend and will always cherish the wonderful memories and years we spent together for the rest of my life.
You will be sadly miss.
Rest in Peace.
Ginger Zito Mealy
December 10, 2013
The Duzant Family,
I was so sorry to hear of your Mom's passing. I spent many days on Mountain Ave. Your Mother made your home so warm and welcoming. Please accept my condolences.
Michelle Drayton
December 10, 2013
My thoughta and prayers go out to you and your family. May God cover you as you grieve...
Helen Wolgamuth-Spinner
December 10, 2013
Gwen & Families,
So sorry to read about your mother. I remember going to your parents house on Mountain Avenue when we worked at BBP. She was a wonderful woman and I know will be missed very much. Know that she will always be in your hearts and remembered fondly.
Deborah (Elci) Cascio
December 10, 2013
My heartfelt sympathy to the family of Mrs. Duzant. Keep her memories tucked close to your heart always and they will help you get through this most difficult time. May she rest in peace in gods hands.
Curtis and Donna Hodge
December 10, 2013
Thank you for the joys we have had with you and the memories we will always cherish. Ma, your sweet heart blessed us and your understanding lifted our spirits. No words will ever be enough to express our gratitude for your kindness towards us. The Tuesdays with Mary group will always have your spirit to guide us in praying for your petitions. We truly love you.
December 10, 2013
To the entire Duzant Family:
Our deepest sympathy on the loss of your mother and grandmother. Mimise was an amazing woman and I know all the loving memories you have of her will help get you through this very difficult time.
Brenda and Stanley White & Family
December 10, 2013
My deepest condolences to all of you. Ma's door was always open to me and you will always be like family. There are years of memories with each and every one of you (her children). Ma's pistachio cake was like no other...and neither was she! I am sure that she now is with her family in the spiritual world that follows. I will never forget Ma...ever! Love, Janet Serluca-Schermerhorn
Ron & Doris Cabral
December 10, 2013
To Mike and the Duzant family,
Please accept out condolances, cherrish your memories, our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time of loss. God Bless!
Mark Hodge
December 10, 2013
Very sad to see a matriarch go. She was very much loved and will be missed.
M Duzant
December 10, 2013
I am very sad that I am writing this. But to everyone. We all love you and are here. We are all on each others mind. One Love to all.
Vernon T Mitchell
December 10, 2013
My sincere condolences to the Duzant and Hodge families at the loss of your mother and sister. May God bless you.
Paula Levanti / Beckwith
December 10, 2013
Michael & family, sorry to hear of the loss of your Mom..my deepest sympathy to the Duzant family.
Donna Bienkowski Smith
December 10, 2013
To all of our Duzant and Hodge family, I am so sorry for the loss of such a sweet lady that was Aunt Mimise. I remember her from younger high school days being a friend of Nicki's and the warmth and laughter of her home! And also years later when I was married into the family. What a beautiful soul! May your wonderful memories help to comfort you during the difficult days and the many pictures of that electric smile bring happiness to your heart. Our prayers are with you all. Donna, Chris, Dylan, Logan, and Ryan
Jeffrey Duzant
December 10, 2013
Grand - adjective
- involving or including many people or things
- very large in scope
- intended to have an important or impressive result
- marked by a regal form and dignity
Dearest Pumpkin,
You were many wonderful things to many people (e.g., sister, wife, mother, grandma, great grandma, great-great grandma)... Ma, you were Grand.
Despite our numbers, and being pulled in all directions, your love was very large in scope and you always had a unique way of making us all feel like we were one-of-a-kind... Ma, you were Grand.
I'm certain you were God sent and intended to set important examples of a life well lived. Every time I look at Mason, Kendall or any of your gorgeous greats I will be reminded of your impressive legacy... Ma, you were Grand.
You left your regal mark from Bishop Court to Grand Case and lived, to the very end, with dignity and grace... Ma, you were truly Grand.
Thank you Grand-Ma. Rest well, until we meet again.
Kathleen Brennan
December 10, 2013
Claudia Richie nich Richie Gwen Donna and duzant family. All my love and sympathy for the loss of your beautiful matriarch. She leaves a fine legacy. Love Kathleen griffin Brennan
Michelle Lewis
December 10, 2013
To all the Duzant cousins,
My sincere and heartfelt condolences on the passing of your great mom. She will be remembered by many of us for her caring and warm hospitality to all who walked through her door. I will remember her always calling everyone "Punkin" and offering something to eat. She will be greatly missed. You are all in my prayers. You will all have the many memories that will keep her alive in your hearts.
Love
Michelle Mingo Lewis & family
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