In Memory of Our Loving Mother, Jocelyne Michaud

Writing these letters is never easy, and this one is particularly challenging for me for numerous reasons. My mother's sudden transition has left me grappling with profound grief and an overwhelming sense of loss. She wasn't ready to leave; she had so many dreams left to fulfill, and she fought with unwavering determination until the very end. The doctors were prepared to stand by her side in this battle because they witnessed her refusal to surrender until it became clear that further treatment would only prolong the inevitable.

If you had the privilege of meeting my mother, you couldn't help but love her. Even those who merely heard of her knew her as a genuinely kind-hearted person. Her impact on countless lives stemmed not only from her innate kindness but from her genuine concern for the well-being and success of others. Upon immigrating to the U.S., she dedicated herself to assisting fellow immigrants in settling into their new lives, earning recognition from the Mayor of Miami for her outstanding contributions in 2022.

As a professor at Miami Dade College for 35 years, she tirelessly championed education, particularly in higher education, where she developed groundbreaking courses like SLS and leadership, shaping the minds of over 20,000 students throughout her illustrious career. Her passion for knowledge and innovation was boundless, and her impact on the lives she touched immeasurable.

My mother possessed more than a heart of gold; she was the embodiment of warmth, light, and love for all who crossed her path. Even in moments of personal hardship, she gave tirelessly and loved unconditionally. Those who had the privilege of knowing her, even briefly, understood that her love was boundless and selfless, radiating outwards to touch the lives of many. Her absence leaves a void that cannot be filled, and no amount of material wealth can measure her true worth.

In the wake of her unexpected passing, my family and I are navigating the painful process of grieving while also ensuring that her final affairs are handled with care. We are committed to honoring her memory by taking care of her bills and arranging a funeral that befits the extraordinary woman she was.