In Loving Memory of Jean Paulius Sissan February 20, 1948 – June 28, 2025 Jean Paulius Sissan, devoted husband, beloved father, cherished grandfather, and committed servant of God, passed away peacefully on June 28, 2025, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He was 77 years old.
Jean was born on February 20, 1948, in Benait, Haiti, to Hyppolite Sissan (deceased) and Clerjennie Constant (deceased). From an early age, Jean exhibited a dedication and drive that would become hallmarks of his character. He was deeply rooted in family, community, and faith—values he carried with him throughout his life.
In 1976, Jean married his beloved sweetheart, Vanite Olivier. Two years later, in search of greater opportunity, he left Haiti for the United States, settling in New York City. In 1987, Jean and Vanite purchased their first home in Philadelphia. He became an active and beloved member of Jerusalem Seventh-day Adventist Church, where he sang with the choir and served faithfully as head deacon for many years. He became the unofficial "chaplain" at work—always ready with a prayer, a word of encouragement, or a story to brighten someone's day. Jean retired in 2013, and in retirement, found great joy in traveling with his family. Among his favorite trips was one to Puerto Rico, where he discovered his love for mofongo—a dish he thoroughly enjoyed and told multiple jokes about.
Jean was the devoted husband of 48 years to Vanite, the proud father of four daughters—Nirva Sissan Chevalier (Guerino), Regine Sissan (deceased), Nahum Sissan Belony (Sam), and Eimeline Smith (Jesse)—and the loving grandfather to Jessica, Israel, Aria, and Micah. He adored his grandchildren, who filled his life with joy and laughter.
Jean is also survived by his sisters Saint Anne Cézaire, Silianise Cézaire, Marie Annette Cézaire, Rose Marie Cézaire, and Marie Dania Cézaire; his uncle William Pierre; his nephews Loubentz Cézaire, Phito Lindor, and Junior Dieujuste; his nieces Carline Batichon, Soumimda Cézaire, Micheline Cézaire, Benita Dieujuste, and Manoucheca Dieujuste Bertilus; his cousins Marie Solange Ramerais Mentor and family, Ketely Ramerais and family, Alix Ramerais and family, Esther Ramerais, Richard Ramerais and family, Goldson Ramerais and family, Ruth Philosca Chardouet and family, Kathleen Pierre Sylvain and family, Sem Pierrre and family; as well as many second cousins and cherished friends.
Jean will be remembered for his gregarious spirit, his captivating stories, his unwavering belief in the power of love and family, and above all, his absolute, complete devotion to God and service to others. Jean Paulius Sissan leaves behind a legacy of faith, resilience, and love. He built a life filled with meaning, created a home full of laughter, and leaves a void that cannot be filled. He will be missed dearly but remembered always.
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In Loving Memory of Jean Paulius Sissan February 20, 1948 – June 28, 2025 Jean Paulius Sissan, devoted husband, beloved father, cherished grandfather, and committed servant of God, passed away peacefully on June 28, 2025, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He was 77 years old.
Jean was born on February 20, 1948, in Benait