Melanie Jean Gilles

Mrs. Melanie Laveaux Jean Gilles was born on Wednesday, January 15, 1941, in Plaisance Cap Haitian, Haiti, to Mr. Maurice Laveaux and Ms. Graselia Pierre. She was the fourth of eight children in her family. From an early age, Melanie’s life was marked by a deep sense of faith, resilience, and dedication to her loved ones.

During her teenage years, Melanie met and later married her late husband, Mr. Benoit Jean Gilles. Together, they were blessed with ten children. Mrs. Jean Gilles was a God-fearing woman whose life revolved around her family. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, always working tirelessly to provide for those she loved.

In 1999, Melanie migrated to the United States to join her late husband and children. Upon her arrival, she worked as a farmer for a decade, enduring long hours to ensure her family’s well-being. Despite her demanding work schedule, she remained committed to serving the Lord. Melanie was an active member of Eden Seventh Day Adventist Church and later continued her spiritual journey at Eglise Baptiste Union Chretienne, where she was guided by the leadership of her son-in-law, Rev. Dr. Stevenson Fed Raymond.

Known for her wisdom, Melanie was a woman of great character, purpose, and generosity. She was a mother to all who knew her, offering care and love to everyone around her. Her life was marked by a sense of humility, professionalism, and an unwavering devotion to God. While she could be stern at times, it was always out of love and concern for others.

Melanie’s warmth and charm left an impact on everyone she met. She had a gift for laughter, dancing, cooking, and gardening, and was always ready to lend a helping hand. She was also known for her candidness, never hesitating to speak her mind when she felt it was important.

On Tuesday, March 25, 2025, Mrs. Melanie Jean Gilles was called home to be with the Lord. She will forever be remembered and loved by her children, siblings, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, sons and daughters-in-law, friends, colleagues, and the church community.

Mrs. Melanie Jean Gilles leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and dedication to her family and community. She is survived by her children: Mr. Benius Jean Gilles, Mr. Wislin Jean Gilles, Mr. Arnold Jean Gilles, Mr. Odrice Jean Gilles, Mr. Missot Jean Gilles, Mrs. Eliette Jean Gilles, and Mrs. Wisline Jean Gilles-Raymond, along with their families. She was preceded in death by her siblings: Mr. Melorice Laveaux, Mr. Christian Laveaux, Mrs. Gracimene Laveaux, Mrs. Leonie Laveaux, Mrs. Lucienne Laveaux, Mrs. Julie Laveaux, and Mrs. Lisette Laveaux.

Her memory will live on through her sons-in-law and daughters-in-law, 25 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and her entire church family.

May her soul rest in peace, and may she be forever remembered and loved.