Marie Rose Charitable Joseph, an esteemed mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, entrepreneur,
community caregiver, and matriarch, passed away peacefully on January 3, 2026, in Boston,
Massachusetts, at the age of 89.

Born on June 15, 1936, in Gressier, Haiti, Marie Rose was the daughter of Cazila Dorsianvil and Monor
Joseph. She was preceded in death by her parents, her ten siblings, and her devoted husband, Ferdinand
Francisque.

Marie Rose embodied the essence of a fanm vanyan—a woman of strength and compassion. As an
entrepreneur, she built her business through discipline and hard work, ensuring that all seven of her children received a quality education, which she considered essential for dignity and independence.

Her influence extended beyond her family, as she warmly welcomed strangers and provided food and
shelter to those in need. Each week, she operated a canteen that fed over 200 individuals, reflecting her
belief in community responsibility, captured by the Haitian proverb “Men anpil, chay pa lou,” which
means “many hands make the load light.”
Her selflessness was evident even in intimate moments, such as when she prepared for the births of her children by bringing baby clothes for both genders and donating unused items to mothers in need.

Marie Rose is survived by her seven children and 22 grandchildren, along with two great-grandchildren,
all of whom carry forward her legacy of love and generosity.

Her impact on the community will be felt for generations, as she not only participated in life but also uplifted those around her. Marie Rose’s legacy of service, compassion, and strength will endure long
beyond her years.

She will be profoundly missed and forever remembered.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated, Saturday, January 24, 2026, in Our Lady of Mt Carmel (St. Angela's) Church, 1540 Blue Hill Avenue, Mattapan, at 10 o'clock. Visiting Hour 9 - 10 am at the church on Saturday.

Visiting Hours Friday, January 23, 2026, in the Dolan Funeral Home, 1140 Washington Street, DORCHESTER LOWER MILLS, 4-8pm.

Interment Oak Lawn Cemetery.