Merzelie Cherilus

With gratitude for a life well lived, we celebrate Merzelie "Deje" Cherilus, age 74, of Irvington, New Jersey. Merzelie passed away on March 13, 2026. She was born on September 11, 1951, in Desdune, Haiti, to the late Merzlas Cherilus Jean-Baptist and the late Selina Dorvil.

Merzelie lived a life deeply rooted in love, family, and faith. She was an entrepreneur who traveled throughout various towns in Haiti, selling goods and building connections within her community. She displayed a drive that came not from formal education, but from faith, determination, and an unshakable will to provide. She carried the warmth of her homeland with her throughout every step of her journey.

During this time, she met Leon Milfort. Together, they had three children; their first child sadly passed away, and they were later blessed with two sons, Ezechiel Milfort and Daniel Milfort.

A God-fearing woman and devoted follower of Christ, Merzelie's faith was the foundation of everything she did. Her unwavering belief in God carried her through every season of life and served as a light she generously shared with all who knew her.

Merzelie relocated to the United States in 1988 where she then married her late husband, Jean Louis Vital. Together, they worked and built a life, and were blessed with three children: Jerry M. Vital, Chrisla Vital, and Jena Vital.

Though she gave birth physically to six children, Merzelie was a mother to so many more. Her door, her heart, and her table were always open. She loved without condition and gave without hesitation.

She at worked various locations, where she built lasting friendships and meaningful connections. Merzelie was known for her caring and giving heart, consistently placing others before herself and offering love and support to everyone she encountered.

She later earned her certification as a Certified Nursing Assistant and went on to work at Genesis Rehabilitation Center which is now called Complete Care at Madison in Matawan, New Jersey, where she dedicated herself to caring for others until her retirement.

Retirement did not slow her down; Merzelie continued her entrepreneurial journey here in the United States. She consistently sought ways to create opportunities and provide for her family. A woman of resilience and determination, she worked tirelessly, adapted fearlessly, and remained steadfast in her efforts for those she loved.

That same spirit remained with her until her final moments, as she passed away following complications from a stroke on the evening of March 13, 2026, at University Hospital in Newark, New Jersey.

Merzelie is survived by her five children: sons Ezechiel Milfort, Daniel Milfort, and Jerry M. Vital; and daughters Chrisla Vital and Jena Vital. She is also survived by her grandchildren: grandsons Amauri E. Jean, Liam Milfort, Darren Milfort, and Kian D. Milfort; and granddaughter Merlani G. Cadeus.

She is further survived by her siblings: sisters Marie Suzette Paul, Rose Micelie Oscar, Egladie Alexis, Alicia "Vesta" Andre Oscar, and Silvita Jean Baptist; and brothers François Cherilus, Adrien Jean Baptist, Ancelot Cherilus, Milfrand Oscar, Wilkens Dorvil, and Watson Jean Baptist.

She was preceded in death by her siblings: brothers Dicenaire Jean Baptist, Lafontant M. Cherilus, and Claude Jean Baptist; and her sister Marie Merzela Cherilus.

She also leaves to cherish her memory a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Merzelie will be remembered for her beautiful spirit, her strength, her kindness that touched the lives of everyone around her and the lasting impact she made on everyone who knew her.

Rest in eternal peace, Merzelie. Your faith, your love, and your legacy lives on. N'ap toujou renmen'w e nou p'ap janm bliye'w.

A viewing will be held on April 11, 2026 from 8am-9am, Funeral services will follow immediately after at Mount Olive Church of God located at 24 Cleveland St, Orange, NJ 07050

If You Would Like To Send A Flower Arrangement To The Service Being Held On Saturday, April 11, 2026, Please Be Aware That The Deadline For Ordering Through Our Online Portal Is Thursday, April 9, 2026, AT 12:00 PM. ANY ORDERS PLACED AFTER 04/09/2026, 12:00PM WILL NOT BE PROCESSED.