Marie Michelle Derac, lovingly known to many as Michelle or Michou, peacefully departed this life on May 15, 2026, at the age of 73.
Born on April 26, 1953, in Gonaïves, Haiti, Michelle carried with her a spirit of love, faith, resilience, and generosity throughout her life. Raised in the Catholic faith, her spirituality guided the way she lived and cared for others. She later made her home in Hyde Park, Massachusetts, where she built a life centered around family, compassion, and service to those around her.
Michelle found joy in homemaking, cooking, traveling, shopping, and spending cherished time with loved ones. Her home was always open, and her presence brought comfort to many.
Michelle was deeply spiritual and lived her faith daily through kindness, humility, and generosity. She welcomed strangers without hesitation and extended help to those less fortunate in whatever way she could financially, emotionally, and spiritually. She believed in caring for people wholeheartedly and offering encouragement, prayer, and love whenever it was needed. Her life reflected the compassion and grace she believed in so strongly.
She will be remembered for her caring heart and loving nature. Michelle loved deeply, laughed often, and had a gift for making people feel seen, valued, and cared for.
Michelle leaves behind her husband, Herve Gentillon; her loving daughters, Sherley Attis and Pascale JeanBaptiste; her cherished grandchildren, Emilie Metellus, Ashley Chatelain, Ashton Chatelain, Alicia Jean Baptiste, and Jamari Noble; her loving sister, Biona Demezier; her dear niece, Audalie Demezier; her devoted son-in-law, Berthin Valcourt; her stepsons, Mykenley, Rolls, and Rove Gentillon; along with many extended family members and friends who will forever cherish her memory.
Though our hearts are heavy with grief, we find comfort in knowing that Michelle’s love, faith, and spirit will continue to live on through everyone she touched.
Gathering and Tribute in Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, 1548 Blue Hill Ave, Mattapan on Friday, May 29th from 9:30am to 10:30am. Immediately followed by a Funeral Mass. Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend.
Interment St. Michael Cemetery, Roslindale.