Our hearts are heavy as we celebrate the life of Jean Borgard, 77, who was born in Les Cayes, Haiti, on February 20, 1948, and left this world surrounded by the love of his family on October 21, 2025.
Jean was one of a kind — strong, stubborn in the best way, and full of life. He married his soulmate, Sonnia, on December 2, 1972, and together they shared more than five decades of laughter, love, and countless stories that will be told for years to come.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Pauline Chery-Borgard and Ernando Borgard, and his sister, Marguerite Mona Chery.
As a devoted brother, he is survived by his siblings: Edna Carre, Mariette Belancourt, Marcelle St Remy, and Joseph M Chery. He was the proud father of Jean, Jeff, and Peggy, and, as only a man with the biggest heart could, he also raised his sister’s children as his own — Johanne, Mike, and Josny. To his nieces, nephews, godchildren, and friends, he was affectionately known as either “Daddy Jean” or “Papi Jean”.
Jean was affectionately known as “Grandpa” to his twelve cherished grandchildren: Sebastian, Sabreenah, Genesis, Julius, Mateo, Ava, Claire, Marguerite, Mona, Lia, Noah, and Caleb. Although he wasn't officially their grandfather, he was also known as grandpa to Sydny, Nicholas, and Kayla, the children of his niece, Kethlyn Ambroise- Cajuste. His greatest joy came from spending time with his family, sharing wisdom, laughter, and unconditional love.
Jean was more than just a husband, brother, father, uncle, or friend; to everyone who knew him, he was also a mentor, a guardian, a source of laughter, and at times, the family's designated "boss."
Jean’s passion for politics and community ran deep. His love for his homeland led to a lifetime of involvement in the Haitian community of Boston, where he became much more than a familiar face — he was a bridge. For many, Jean was the translator, mentor, and helper — the one you went to when you needed paperwork done, a job application filled out, or help navigating immigration services. He gave his time freely, his wisdom generously, and his heart completely.
Though he is no longer with us, his spirit will live on in every laugh, every family gathering, and every story that begins with, “Remember when Dad, remember when Grandpa…”
We will miss him deeply, but we will carry his love, his wisdom, and his laughter with us forever.
Family and friends are invited to attend viewing hours on Monday November 3, 2025 at 9 AM followed by Funeral Mass at 10 AM at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parrish, 1540 Blue Hill Ave, Boston, MA 02126. Burial is private.