Duvalia Milord

Duvalia Milord, a woman of quiet strength and unwavering independence, passed away peacefully on April 21 in West Orange, New Jersey, at the age of 96. She was born on February 15, 1930, in Cuba. Duvalia’s life journey was marked by resilience, dignity, and self-reliance. A woman of deep faith, her daily devotion to reading the Bible left a lasting impression on all who knew and admired her.

In her early years, Duvalia and her family disembarked in Les Cayes, Haiti, arriving by a French vessel. They were warmly received by her maternal grandfather, Duperval Milord, along with a large circle of extended family and friends. Her father, Nesmond Rozier, later joined the family in Haiti. Duvalia completed her primary and secondary education at St. Miramiste Telemaque in the city of Les Cayes. A diligent and accomplished student, she went on to pursue a career as a dressmaker, dedicating herself to her craft with precision and pride.

In 1997, at the age of 67, Duvalia immigrated to the United States in search of new opportunities and embraced the challenges of building a life in a new country. She found employment at the Marriott Hotel, where she worked in environmental services for four years. Her strong work ethic and commitment to excellence left a lasting impression on her colleagues.

After retiring, Duvalia settled in East Orange, New Jersey, where she continued to live independently. Remarkably, she maintained excellent health throughout most of her life, requiring NO medications or regular doctor visits until March 5, when she personally requested to be taken to the emergency department. She was widely known for her vitality and spirited nature.

Duvalia valued self-sufficiency and personal responsibility. In 2015, she thoughtfully planned and arranged her own funeral, including selecting her casket and attire, ensuring that her final arrangements would not burden others. A few months prior to her passing, she asked her nephew, Ernest, to visit her gravesite at Rosedale Cemetery so she could see her chosen final resting place until, as she expressed in faith, the Lord would call her name.

Through careful planning and prudent management of her retirement and Social Security benefits, Duvalia demonstrated foresight and consideration for those around her.

A private individual, Duvalia never married and had no children. She cherished and adored her niece Marcelle, affectionately known as “Cello.” She also maintained a connection with Marcelle’s children, who lovingly called her “Tante Aya,” a name by which she was widely known. She is the last surviving member of her immediate family and was predeceased by her beloved mother, Clarice Milord; her brothers, Romanes St. Fleur and Elifaite Rozier; and her sisters, Clarimene Rozier and Anie Porcena.

Duvalia’s life stands as a testament to independence, resilience, and quiet strength. Her legacy serves as an inspiration to all who value dignity and self-reliance.

In accordance with her wishes, all funeral arrangements have been carefully carried out. She personally selected Pastor Jean Maurice to officiate her service. The burial will take place at the site she thoughtfully chose and visited, ensuring that her final resting place reflects her values and intentions.

May Duvalia Milord rest in peace, her life remembered with deep respect and admiration.

If You Would Like To Send A Flower Arrangement To The Service Being Held On Saturday, May 2, 2026, Please Be Aware That The Deadline For Ordering Through Our Online Portal Is Thursday, April 30, 2026, AT 12:00 PM.

ANY ORDERS PLACED AFTER 04/30/2026, 12:00PM WILL NOT BE PROCESSED.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Duvalia Milord, please visit our floral store.