Renette Marie Baptiste

Renette Baptiste, a beloved daughter, sister, grandmother, wife, and friend, passed away peacefully at the age of 83 on Sunday, February 2, 2025, in Durham, North Carolina.

Born in Haiti on May 12, 1941, to the late Olivia Dorisca and Duvelsaint Saint Louis, Renette was a cherished sister to Ernst Saint-Louis, Evelyn Datus, Serge Saint-Louis, and Mirlande Drouillard. From a young age, Renette’s nurturing heart and selflessness shone brightly. Whether through her love of sewing, her passion for cooking, or the care she freely gave, she always sought to make others feel seen and loved. Her life was forever changed when she met the love of her life, Jean Athanase Baptiste. Their love story began four years before they married, and together they built a family that has extended across generations.

As a mother, Renette’s love knew no bounds. Her children describe her as deeply loving and wholeheartedly devoted. In 1981, she moved to the United States to provide her children with a brighter future. She worked at WG Products and Tiffany & Co. for over 20 years, but even in retirement, her role as the heart of the family never wavered. Renette’s true calling was caregiving—whether for her family, friends, or even strangers in need. She welcomed everyone with open arms, always giving selflessly and generously. Renette loved bringing people together, and nothing brought her more joy than seeing her loved ones share in the wonderful meals she prepared. She made sure no one ever left her home hungry.

Renette was also known for her deep love and devotion to the Lord. Her faith was evident in the way she lived her life. She was a dedicated member of Saint Peter’s, Our Lady of Spirit, and St. Rose of Lima, where she served faithfully in many capacities. She was also a member of the Legion of Mary. There was never a Sunday when Renette missed church, and she never missed an opportunity to sing praises to the Lord.

She leaves to cherish her memory her children: Guerda Baptiste, Jean Hancy Baptiste (Katherine), Guerline Baptiste, and Stanley Baptiste (Lilly); her grandchildren: Oliver Datus, Christopher Baptiste, Genevieve Baptiste, Amanda Baptiste, Elijah Baptiste, Olivia Pierre, Athaniel Pierre, Christina Pierre, Alexia Pierre, Amirah Baptiste, Shae Baptiste, Azar'el Baptiste, and Zaria Baptiste; her siblings: Ernst Saint-Louis (Rosette), Evelyn Datus (Louis), Serge Saint-Louis (Mirette), and Mirlande Drouillard; as well as seven great-grandchildren and a host of extended family (Baptiste, Datus, Saint-Louis, Drouillard, Mirville, Pierre, Dorisca, Erie, Cinada, Marcelin, Auguste, Laporte, Etienne, Patrice, Gay, and Davis). She is also survived by countless loving relatives and friends who will forever cherish her memory.

A viewing will be held on Friday, February 14, 2025, from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM at Martin’s Home for Service, 48 Elm St., Montclair, NJ. A service to honor Renette’s life will take place on Saturday, February 15, 2025, at 11:30 AM at St. Cassian Roman Catholic Church, 187 Bellevue Ave., Upper Montclair, NJ. Friends and family are invited to come together in remembrance of a remarkable woman whose life was a testament to faith, love, and devotion.

“Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all. Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. Honor her for all that her hands have done, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.” – Proverbs 31:29-31 (NIV)

Renette’s kind, gentle, and caring spirit touched everyone around her. She was loved by all and will be deeply missed by many.

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