A LIFE & LEGACY

Gerard Exantus, 92, fondly known as (“Pappy Gerard”), born on November 12, 1931, in Port-Au-Prince, Haiti, son of the late Augustin Auguste and Ais Exantus, passed away on Saturday, November 25, 2023, at his residence in Brockton, MA, surrounded by his loved ones.

Gerard’s life was a testament to the values of faith, courage, honesty, discipline, humility, and patience mirroring the teachings of Jesus Christ. He received his primary education in Haiti beginning his career in masonry. He later transitioned into real estate, always guided by a deep sense of fairness and a desire to serve others.

In 1985, Gerard moved to the United States, settling in Boston with his wife, Marie F. Exantus, and their children. He worked at Keystone Batteries, where his inclusive and equitable approach earned him the respect and admiration from colleagues and community alike.

Gerard’s religious involvement was deeply rooted in his faith. His service as a deacon at the New Covenant Church of Cambridge and later at Christ the Rock Congregation Church under the leadership of Rev. Mark Simeon and Pastor Jean Claude Jean-Baptiste was marked by his unyielding spirit of openness, active listening, and love. He accepted others without judgment, always exuding his empathetic nature. Gerard harbored a profound zeal for prayer, extending his supplications beyond the circle of his kin to encompass all those in search of spiritual support. His dedication to this divine communion was unshakeable, making him a pillar of faith and trusted confidante within his family.

Gerard’s life reflects the essence of John 8:12, which says, “I am the Light of the world. He who follows Me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the Light of life.”

Gerard is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Marie F. Exantus; his children, Guirlene Exantus, Milka Exantus, Dr. Ketsia Exantus, Josue Exantus (Sylvia) of Boston, MA and Ervelange Exantus (Dr. Jodel Giraud) of North Carolina. His daughter, Yolene E. Benoit, and his son, Guetter Exantus, predeceased him in death. His only living sister Fanie Exantus. He is predeceased by his siblings Polonne Exantus, Sauveur Exantus, Gaston Exantus, Philippe Exantus, and Mme. Simeus Bonhome.

Cherishing his memory are his 10 grandchildren: Mirlene Figaro, Lovely Benoit, Johanne Benoit, David Pierre, Melissa C. Worthy (James) of Connecticut, Rashad Charles (Fallon), Cassie Pierre, Joshua S. Exantus Jr., Nalaya Giraud, Jacob G. Exantus; and his 16 great-grandchildren: Elrika Figaro, Diana J. Figaro, Sparte Jean Jr, Kayleigh U. Ryder, Tristen K. Ryder, Eshkhan A. Derderian, Khloe A. Derderian, Nikko A. Derderian, Tucker A. Derderian, Glen D. Derderian, Noah Derderian, Caileb J. Dengkhim, Sophia L. Dengkhim, Logan Benoit-Semedo, Anaiah Charles, and Maverick J. Worthy.

Gerard's legacy of faith, love, and devotion to family lives on. His Christ-like qualities remind us all of the importance of being rooted and grounded in the Word of God. He will be sorely missed by a host of close relatives, family, and friends.

A Funeral Service will be celebrated at the Tabernacle Baptist Church, 575 American Legion Highway, Roslindale, Thursday December 7 at 11:00 AM. Family and friends invited. A visiting hour will be held at the church from 10-11 AM. Burial Forest Hills Cemetery.