Henri Robert Lamothe

Henri-Robert Lamothe, a devoted family man, trailblazer, and pillar of his community, was born on February 10, 1948, in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, to Emmanuel Lamothe and Raymonde Désouvre. The second of four children, Robert displayed a precocious focus and loyalty from an early age—qualities that became the hallmarks of his extraordinary life. Robert began his education at L’École Seminar in Port-au-Prince before moving with his family to New York City in 1957. There, he attended St. Ambrose School in Brooklyn and later Eastern District High School, where he excelled in track and field, soccer, and basketball. Though he shined in all sports, basketball became his passion, and he could often be found honing his skills on local courts alongside peers who would later ascend to professional leagues. Inspired by the resilience and work ethic of his parents—his father, Emmanuel, an engineer, and his mother, Raymonde, a seamstress-turned-registered nurse—Robert prioritized his education. After graduating high school, he was drafted into the U.S. Army and served with distinction during the Vietnam War. Despite being ambushed and gravely wounded in 1969, Robert survived against all odds, enduring 22 days in the jungle before his miraculous rescue. For his valor, he was awarded the Purple Heart and honorably discharged. Upon returning home, Robert pursued higher education with determination, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Business Economics from Long Island University in just three years. During this transformative period, he became a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., fostering lifelong connections and deepening his commitment to leadership. Robert married Norienne Richiez and welcomed his daughter Arabella in 1973. Shortly after, he relocated to South Florida to embark on a remarkable career marked by ambition, intellect, and community service. His early professional journey included roles at Burdines and the Miami Herald, where his analytical mind and relentless drive shone brightly. He went on to earn two Master’s degrees—an MBA from the University of Miami and another from Bernard Baruch College. Robert’s passion for uplifting others found its fullest expression in his work with the Haitian-American community in South Florida. As Director of Social Services for the Haitian-American Community Association of Dade (HACAD) and later as Executive Director of the Haitian Task Force, Robert championed countless initiatives to empower entrepreneurs and preserve cultural heritage. His crowning achievement was the creation of the Caribbean Marketplace, a vibrant landmark in Miami’s Little Haiti neighborhood that celebrated Haitian artistry and commerce. In his personal life, Robert was equally devoted. After marrying Marie-Yvrose Volel, they built a loving family and welcomed two children, Axel and Naomi. Robert’s love for his family knew no bounds; he was a guiding presence, a steady hand, and an unshakable source of support and joy. Over the years, Robert’s career expanded to include roles at FEMA and USAID, where he continued his lifelong mission to improve lives, whether aiding disaster recovery in California or fostering entrepreneurship in Haiti. Upon returning to Miami, he joined the Miami-Dade County Office of Community and Economic Development, where he managed impactful projects across the county. Robert retired in 2008, dedicating his time to his family, gardening, reading, and deep-sea fishing. Despite his many accomplishments, he remained a profoundly humble man, always willing to lend a hand or share his wisdom. His compassion and generosity touched countless lives. On January 1, 2025, the 221st anniversary of Haiti’s independence, Robert was called to be with the Lord. He is preceded in death by his parents, Emmanuel and Raymonde; his brother Ernst; and his beloved daughter Nyesha. He is survived by his wife of over 40 years, Marie; his children Arabella, Axel, and Naomi; his grandchildren Alexander and Krystian Morency, Arabell Johnson, Peyton and Kelis Lamothe; his siblings Daniel and Denise; nephews Ernst Lamothe II and Anthony Lamothe; nieces Regina Lamothe, Tanya Lamothe, Nadege Lamothe, Helena Lamothe, and Regina Lamothe. As well as a host of cousins and extended family who will forever cherish his memory. Henri-Robert Lamothe’s life was a testament to resilience, service, and unwavering love. His legacy will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.

Henri Robert Lamothe

February 10, 1948 - January 1, 2025

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