Sylvie's obituary
In Loving Memory of Altide Bertil
Also known as “Sylvie,” “Yvie,” and lovingly called “Nanny Sylvie”
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Altide Bertil, who left us on April 16, 2023, after a long and courageous battle with heart failure and other health complications. She was a devoted and loving mother to Darline Bertil, Freedlin Bertil, James Edmond, and cherished grandmother to Anaïse Cataliya Bertil. Her absence will be deeply felt by all who knew and loved her.
Sylvie was born on December 27, 1952, in Limbé, a commune in the Northern Department of Haiti. The youngest of seven children, she was lovingly welcomed by her parents, Israel Bertil and Tertulia Sinvil, as the baby of the family.
Our mother was kind, selfless, and generous, always placing the needs of others before her own. She faced life’s challenges with grace, strength, and unwavering resilience. Sylvie was the heart of our family and a constant source of love and support. She made it her mission to care for those around her, ensuring that her nieces and nephews were fed, clothed, and ready for school. Her love extended far beyond her immediate family.
For nearly thirty years, Mom worked as a private cook, delighting many with her incredible meals. She was also a skilled seamstress, sewing clothes for her loved ones and earning the affectionate nickname “Tantann Sylvie.” In September 2010, following the devastating earthquake in Haiti, Sylvie and her firstborn, Darline, moved to the United States for medical reasons. Both were survivors of that tragic day. Darline lost both hands in the disaster, and Sylvie bore deep psychological and physical scars—but she never wavered. She became Darline’s hands, her strength, her everything. Their bond was profound, and Darline will forever cherish that love.
Sylvie was a woman of deep faith, who taught us the values of family, hard work, and integrity. Small in stature but mighty in spirit, she had a generous heart that embraced many. She loved children and was known for “adopting” countless others—both young and grown—into her life with open arms. She was a remarkable role model, and her legacy will continue to live on through the many lives she touched.
A funeral service to celebrate her life will be held at Horeb Alliance Church on April 28, 2023. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made through this webpage.
Mom, you will forever live in our hearts. We love you endlessly and will never forget the warmth, strength, and love you gave us. May God grant you eternal rest, dear Mother.