Yolene Fifie Francois

Yolene Francois, affectionately known as Fifie, passed away peacefully at her North Miami Beach home on Tuesday, June 27, 2023, at the age of 68. She was surrounded by her loving family and close friends during her transition. Fifie was born on October 1, 1954, to Gislaine Roux and Andre Francois but was raised since infancy by Rudolph Francois (Dodof) and Clotilde Francois. Her father’s doting nature earned her the nickname Fifie Dodof, which stayed with her throughout her life. She completed her elementary studies at Les Soeurs Sacré Coeur de Turgot and attended high school at Collège Catts Pressoir. Even at a young age, Fifie displayed strong character and leadership skills. She was known for her fierce competitive spirit and won numerous championships in Badmington. Fifie pursued her studies in Le Secrétariat Bilingue at the prestigious PIGIER school and worked as an Executive Administrator at the Diréction Général des Impôts (DGI) for many years. However, her true passion lay in the culinary arts. She enrolled in École d’Arts Managers de Bourdon, known as “Chez Madame Pallière,” where her love for culinary arts flourished even further. Immigrating to the United States was not an easy journey for Fifie, but her perseverance, determination, and inner strength helped her establish herself as Chef Fifi, an extraordinary caterer. She hosted countless functions, becoming an icon in the community and gaining national and international recognition. She elevated Haitian cuisine and dining experiences while keeping them grounded in our most cherished culinary traditions. Her exceptional culinary skills made her a favorite chef among many elected officials, including former Governor of Florida, Jeb Bush. Fifie’s dedication to her craft led her to train numerous chefs in Japan, assisting them in opening the first Haitian restaurant. She fearlessly pursued the goal of elevating Haitian cuisine and even completed a certification program in France, specializing in fine desserts, after training with some of the top chefs. Above all, Fifie had a heart full of love and touched the lives of many. Although she had no biological children, she was a loving mother figure to countless individuals. She was a beloved sister, a generous aunt, a supportive cousin, a devoted friend, and a compassionate community servant. Fifie blazed the trail and paved the way for many looking for a head start and success in their new host country, the United States. She was a role model for numerous women, embodying independence, sensitivity, and compassion. Her love language was food, and she cooked for those who could not, and many women used her culinary talents to maintain their relationships. Throughout the years, Fifie delighted in vacationing and exploring various countries. Fifie held great pride in the accomplishments of her brothers and sisters. She lived a beautiful life; her memory will forever reside in our hearts. She is preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by her brothers and sisters: Ervey Francois, Laurette Francois Guerry, Patrick Francois, Marc Antoine Francois, Rose Andrée Francois, Marie Camille Francois, Batimé Francois, Elvire Francois Murat, Camille Francois, Nathalie Francois, Viviane Francois Vilbon, Marjorie Francois Lozama, Jean Rudy Francois, Dominique Francois, Lucien Ovile, Dr. Edouard Ovile, Lina Francois, Marie Josee Francois, and numerous cousins, nephews, nieces, and in-laws.

Yolene Fifie Francois

October 1, 1954 - June 27, 2023

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