Otancine Joseph

Otancine Joseph, also known as Hortance or OJ, was born in Gonaives (Bassin) on May 15^th, 1947, to her late father Adrien Joseph and mother Clairemelie Dormevil. She was the second of their two daughters but growing up she always acted as the oldest. A few days after Otancine’s birth, her mother Clairemelie Dormevil passed away, and she was raised by her aunt Sephise Joseph (Madan William).

Otancine completed her primary and secondary education in Gonaives. In 1972, she moved to Port-au-Prince to join other family members and to further her education. In 1980, Otancine left Haiti and moved to the United States in pursuit of a better life. This is where she met the love of her life, the late Audemar Pierre-Louis. Their love gave birth to their son Dave C. Pierre-Louis in 1982. OJ adored her son whom she affectionately called “Dude.” She was the disciplinarian and protective parent. Otancine spent most of her working years at Boca Raton Community Hospital in housekeeping and later as a CNA until retirement. She also worked multiple jobs to ensure that her family was taken care of.  

Otancine loved her family dearly. She always brought laughter and joy to all family gatherings. Otancine had an affectionate smile that would light up even the darkest room, but if things were not in order or to her liking, her voice and look would fix that in a second. She had a keen affection for fashion and elegance and knew how to make her presence felt. Otancine also enjoyed cooking for her family, although she was a fussy eater. It was not easy to get her to eat out or someone else’s food, except for ice cream. Otancine took immense pleasure in delighting her family and friends by sharing stories and jokes, even in her last years of dealing with Dementia.   

Otancine departed from this life peacefully on November 30^th, 2023. She left us with memories of her joy, humor, and unwavering love. We will dearly miss her. 

Otancine is survived by her son Dave C. Pierre-Louis, daughter-niece Erline Joseph Antoine with her children Jayline and Gregory Antoine. She was preceded by her beloved sister Ella Joseph and many aunts and uncles. Otancine is also survived by many cousins from the families of Joseph, Dormevil, Laserre, Val, Delva, Balmir, Benoit, Chevalier, Charles, St Far, Bien-Aime, Ferdinand, Brazil, other relatives, and friends.