Yolande Joseph

Yolande Joseph was born on December 24, 1953, in Cap-Haïtien, Haiti, to Lucien Menard and Carla Joseph. One of eight children, Yolande was known from a young age for her vibrant personality, joyful spirit, and gift of connecting with others. She was fun-loving, social, and full of life—always surrounded by people drawn to her magnetic energy. She shared a deep bond with her siblings, whom she loved dearly, and remained connected to them throughout her life.

As a young woman, Yolande became a devoted mother to three sons in Haiti: Roosevelt Ansley Pierre, Sansary Etienne, and Danny Fleurimond. In the 1980s, she relocated to Freeport, Bahamas, where she continued to build a loving community of friends and family and welcomed two more sons, John Phillip and Mercado Tibe.

Yolande was a true provider—a woman of strength, hustle, and relentless dedication to her children. She worked hard to make sure her family never went without, continuing to support and care for them even into their adulthood. Her love was deep and sometimes intense, but it was always rooted in fierce devotion. Her children were her world.

In the late 1980s, Yolande moved to Miami, Florida, where she reunited with her childhood sweetheart and gave birth to her sixth and final child—her only daughter, Violaine Bien-Aime. She later made her home in Oakland Park, Florida, where she would ultimately and lovingly reside until her passing.

Yolande had a love like no other for her daughter, Violaine. They were not just mother and daughter—they were best friends, confidantes, and soul-deep companions. They spoke several times a day, shared every detail of life, and leaned on each other in both joy and struggle. Though they had their differences at times, their love was unwavering, surpassing every disagreement. Violaine knew and did everything for her mother, and the bond they shared was rare and beautiful. The hurt and void of this loss is immeasurable.

Everywhere Yolande went, she carried the bright, bold colors of her Haitian spirit. With her stylish flair, infectious smile, and booming voice, she made her presence known. Neighborhood kids affectionately called her “Fiyah Red”—a nickname that captured her fiery personality and unforgettable charm.

She was beloved in her community and cherished the friendships she built throughout her life—whether through church, work, or just everyday encounters in the neighborhood. Yolande was the friend who always checked in, called to crack a joke, share a prayer, or simply say she was thinking of you. Her loyalty and warmth made her unforgettable to everyone who crossed her path.

Yolande was the kind of woman who felt like everyone’s mother—ready to cook for you, pray over you, laugh with you, and lend a helping hand. Her food was a ministry of its own, and she had a rare talent for making people feel at home. She adored her many nieces and nephews and loved them as her own. Though her absence leaves a heavy void, we find comfort knowing that she has now reunited with her beloved niece, Jeromine Denise, who passed away just last year. What a joyful reunion it must be in Heaven, two radiant souls embraced once again.

Her faith was the anchor of her life. She was a committed member of her church, active in the women’s ministry, the choir, and many prayer groups. Her home echoed with prayers for her children and grandchildren, and her heart overflowed with love for them.

Yolande Joseph leaves behind a legacy of strength, service, and soul. She loved loudly. She gave generously. She prayed constantly. She lived fully.

She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.