Joseph Dabas

Joseph Moise Dabbas Pè Mòy was born on July 13, 1940, in Grand Goave,
Haiti, to where he lived with his parents, Saintalise Laporte and Antoine
Dabbass. He was welcomed by. He, was welcomed by join ing hiss two
older sisters Jacqueline, and Zette, and would later be joined and was later
followed by , Marie-Rose, and Yvonne. As He was the middle child and the
only boy among four girls, he was outnumbered, as he liked to say. A
scenario that would repeat itself throughout his life.a fact that would serve
him well in life, as he would constantly find himself outnumbered by the
women in his life.
As a child, he was full of life and a bit mischievous to say the least. He
developed a passion for soccer. In his teens he found and later an interest in
cars and anything mechanical. Eventually, he moved to Port-au-Prince,
where he acquired a truck and started working the road. He often spoke
fondly of his youth, cherishing the memories he made as a young man and
the fun trouble he would get into trouble he made. To say he was well
known in the community would be an understatement.
In June of 1967, Pè Mòy married his wife of 56 years, Therese Adam, and
together they built a family. That In August of that same year, he embarked
on a new chapter in his life by immigrateding to Brooklyn, NY with his wife.
He securedfound work as mechanic at an auto-body shop and often spoke of
the hardships associated with being in a foreign land. Seeking independence

and reluctant to take directions from anyone, he purchased a vibrant yellow
cab and worked asbecoming a taxi driver. In 1975, the couplePè Mòy and
Therese bought a home, a place that would quickly serve as a homebase for
friends and family alike. became a symbol of warmth and hospitality for all
who crossed its threshold. Known affectionately as "428," their house was a
haven that never failed to offer nourishment, with a doss of straight talk from
Pè Mòy, himself.
Pè Mòy 's loud voice and often cringe-worthy straight talk will forever be
ingrained in our heads. He personified the expressionwas a true exampl, e of
“a big bark, with no bite,” , often scaring those that did not know him. H
with his loud voice was almost always accompanied onby ly to be met with
an offer of home-cooked meal, his way of showing that he cared. Those that
knew him, knew he meant no harm, and understood that it was just Pè Mòy
and that he had just given you a story to tell.
While he had a deep love for Brooklyn, his heart was forever in Grand-
Goâve, often visiting for long periods of time and eventually building a home
in anticipation of his final daysthere. Unfortunately, due to his illness and
the political climate in Haitistate of affairs in Haiti, he was not able to spend
his final days in there but Grand-Goâve, but was surrounded by family,
which would have been just the same to him. was always in his heart.
Throughout his time in Haiti, Pemoy's life was filled with joy and laughter.
He often spoke fondly of his youth, cherishing the memories he made as a
young man in his homeland. Pemoy's affection for his roots was palpable,
and he even built a house in Haiti where he would frequently return. His love
for his dogs was evident in every interaction, showcasing his innate
compassion and empathy. During his childhood in Grand Goave, Pemoy
developed a passion for soccer and developed a keen interest in cars.
Eventually, he moved to Port-au-Prince, where he honed his skills as a
chauffeur.

In 1967, Pemoy married the love of his life, Therese Adam, and together they
were blessed with three beautiful daughters: Djenane, Tania, and Valerie.
Pemoy worked diligently in an auto body shop, ensuring that he could
provide for his family. In August of that same year, accompanied by his wife,

he embarked on a new chapter in his life by immigrating to New York. He
continued his work in an auto body shop before eventually purchasing a
vibrant yellow cab and becoming a taxi driver. In 1975, Pemoy and Therese
bought their first home, a place that quickly became a symbol of warmth and
hospitality for all who crossed its threshold. Known affectionately as "428,"
their house was a haven that never failed to offer nourishment, both for the
body and the soul. As we come together today to celebrate Pemoy's life, let
us remember the joy he brought to our lives through his culinary delights, his
unwavering love for his family, and his enduring connection to his homeland.


Pemoy's legacy will forever serve as a reminder of the power of resilience,
the importance of cherishing our roots, and the profound impact one
individual can have on those around them. May his spirit of love, care, and
resiliency continue to inspire us all as we navigate our own journeys. In
honoring Pemoy's memory, let us embrace the lessons he taught us through
his words and actions. Let us always remember the joy he found in simple
pleasures, the compassion he showed to all living beings, and the love he
shared with his family and community. Today, we say farewell to Pemoy, but
his spirit will live on in our hearts, forever reminding us to cherish each
moment and to savor the flavors of life.
PemoyPè Mòy leaves behind a loving community including his wife, sisters,
children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws and friends near
and far. as a father, grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend he touched
their lives. His legacy is carried down through his children and
grandchildren. He is charm, love and laughter will forever be missed and but
never not forgotten.
Today, we gather to honor and celebrate the remarkable life of Joseph Moise
Dabas, affectionately known as Pemoy. Born in the vibrant town of Grand
Goave, Haiti, Pemoy later embarked on a journey to the United States in
search of better opportunities. As we reflect on Pemoy's enduring legacy, it is
impossible not to be moved by his charisma, boundless energy, unwavering
care, and indomitable spirit. Each of us has experienced his love in our own
unique way. However, one aspect of Pemoy's presence that truly resonated

with all of us was his culinary prowess. His cooking had the power to make
anyone consider moving into his home just to savor his delectable creations
every single day.