Francois Surena

Francois Surena was born on July 2nd, 1957 in Gonaïves, Haiti to his beloved parents Marie Jeanne Bernard and Mario Surena. He completed most of his higher education studies at College Jean XXIII in Gros-Morne, before transferring to Lycee Geffrard in Gonaïves. Francois’ favorite quote was “He who opens a school door, closes a prison.” He believed in education, knowing that education is the key to the future. Shortly after, Francois stopped his schooling to begin a career in teaching, which lead him to start his own private school called “Maranatha.”

While directing and managing Maranatha, Francois decided to change his career path and became a Judicial Assistant. As a Judicial Assistant, Francois worked in Gros-Morne’s courthouse for 17 years, where he took pride in solving crimes and helping the community find justice. On July 6th, 2007, Francois put an end to his career to migrate to the United States with four of his children, with hopes of giving them a better opportunity in life.

Since then, Francois lived his life to the fullest through simple pleasures, such as interacting with friends, watching action movies, soccer games, and laughing. He was the kindest guy you could have ever met. He brightened people’s day through funny jokes and playful actions. He was known as a very generous and caring spirit who took pleasure in assisting others in any way he could. He spent over 5 years volunteering at Jefferson Park Ministries, supervising middle school students to ensure their safety during afterschool hours.

As a father, Francois was often content and rarely demanding. He passed away being an exemplary father to his children. Though very unspoken, Francois embedded in his children the profound traits of fatherhood: self-compromise, respect, modesty, and most importantly, discipline. Above all the elements that may saddened us about the death of Francois, he will forever be missed and remembered. After all, Francois is survived by his sons: Roodvens Surena, Ronaldy Surena, John Surena, Rodolphe Surena, Francis Surena, and Bill Surena; his mother: Marie    Bernard; his stepfather: Nicolas Gerome; his older sister: Marie Eugenie Moricin; his brother-in-law: Marc Moricin; and his nieces: Ophenide Moricin, Carine Moricin, Michaelle Moricin, and Geniema Moricin.

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