Claudette Lamothe

Claudette was born on October 18, 1944 , in Jacmel, Haiti to Lamartiniere and Lizamen (neé Jean) Brutus. Having lived a great life full of love, dedication, and service to her family and community, Claudette gained her wings on June 27, 2024, and is now resting peacefully in the arms of the Lord who she loved so much.

Claudette was the beloved wife of Jacques Lamothe, with whom she shared 56 wonderful years of marriage. Together, they built a beautiful family, raising five children who were the pride and joy of Claudette's life. Her nurturing spirit extended beyond her own children as she became a cherished grandmother to twelve grandchildren, each of whom held a special place in her heart. 

Claudette left her home in Haiti in 1967 when she relocated to Zaire, Africa with her then new husband, Jacques. They later made the trip to the United States in 1970 initially residing in Brooklyn, New York for a short period of time before making their permanent home in Newark, New Jersey. While raising her family, Claudette held many positions in various industries and eventually retired after a long career as a home health aide. Her compassionate nature and unwavering commitment to helping those in need left a lasting impact on the many lives she touched. Her kindness, dedication and generosity were evident in every task she undertook, earning her the admiration and respect of her colleagues and patients alike. 

Claudette was a devout Catholic who served her church community, particularly the Haitian Catholic Community, since 1975, first in the greater Newark area at Blessed Sacrament and later at St. Leo’s Roman Catholic Church in Irvington, in several capacities including choir member, lector, eucharistic minister and Charismatic leader, just to name a few. 

Claudette was the matriarch of her family but also for the neighborhood, and community. Her home was always open to her friends, family and church community. It was often the meeting place for all types of events, choir practice, game nights, and all-around hang-out spot for children and adults alike, at any time of day or night. She was a warm host who made sure no one left her home without being fed a good meal, good conversation and certainly a few good laughs.

She will be remembered for her warm smile, her nurturing disposition, her generosity of spirit, and her boundless love for her family and friends. Her legacy of kindness, strength, and devotion will continue to inspire all who knew her. 

Claudette is predeceased by her parents, Lamartiniere and Lizamen Brutus; her sister Gertha Brutus; her brother, Pouplard Brutus (2023) and her beloved daughter, Colette Lamothe-Galette (2020). She is survived by the love of her life and husband of 56 years, Jacques Lamothe; her children, Lunie Lamothe-Lezin (Carlo); Jean Lamothe (Debra); Regine Lamothe Thomas (Amos); Claudette Lamothe-Galette (John); and her son-in-law Saulus Galette. She also leaves behind 12 grandchildren who she often referred to as the 12 disciples of Christ: Carla Lezin (Justin), Briannah Lezin, Samuel Thomas, Zaairah Lamothe, Valerie Galette, Justin Thomas, Alexys Galette, Jordin Lamothe, Nicolas Galette, Victoria Galette, Jessica Galette, and Jonathan Galette. 

Also left to mourn her passing are her beloved sister, Rosette Despinos (Rene), her nephews and niece, Rene Despinos (Vanessa); Gregory Despinos, Natacha Peavey (Hussan), and Pouplard Brutus, Jr. ; great-nieces and great-nephews, Sinia and Elisha Peavey, Grayson Despinos, Lydia, Hayden and Russel Depinos; as well as her godchildren, Claudine Thompson Berti, Christiane Gabriel and Stanley Bernard, and a host of cousins, relatives and friends. 

Although we will miss her terribly, we know that she is no longer suffering and she is now resting peacefully in her Father’s kingdom in Heaven. Claudette's memory will forever remain in our hearts. She will be deeply missed but never forgotten. 

The Lamothe Family would like to thank everyone for the outpouring of love, encouragement, and prayers we have received during this most difficult time. We are grateful for your love and support. 

Family and friends are invited to attend a visitation for Claudette at St. Leo's Church, 103 Myrtle Ave. Irvington on Friday July 5 from 9 to 11 AM. A Funeral mass will be celebrated at 11 AM, and interment will follow at Hollywood Cemetery. Arrangements are in the care of the Galante Funeral Home in Union.