Obituary of Marie Chantal Alcema

Marie Chantal Alcema was born on February 17, 1971 in Port-au-Prince, Haiti to Yves Desir and Anna Nelson. She was raised in downtown Port At Prince. Marie graduated from Salesian Sisters of Don Bosco in 1981. She lived most of her life in Port-au-Prince before moving to Brooklyn, New York at the age of 14.

Marie was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. She spent countless hours volunteering in various capacities in her community whether it was preparing food in her kitchen or collecting coats for coat drives to distribute to those in need. Her passion to help others grew and soon her nonprofit Seed of Hope was born.

Marie enjoyed caring for those she loved and was a supportive presence in the lives of many people in her community. She always had words of encouragement for her children and inspired them to live life with a full and open heart.

Marie’s zest for life and infectious laugh allowed her to make friends easily throughout her career as an entrepreneur in cosmetology, and in the non-profit sector.

Marie was always available to support her family and friends with anything they needed whether it was with a meal, clothing, a place to stay or just a kind word – Marie could always be counted on to lend a helping hand to help others.

Marie is survived by her husband, St. Clair Alcema, Sr., and her children, Shyna Alcema, St. Clair Alcema, Jr., and Lyndsey Alcema.

Marie leaves behind to mourn: grandchildren, Jayda Claire Conteh. Marie is survived by her father Yves Desir of Queens, New York. She is also survived by her sisters Mary, Guerda, Nadege, Sandra, Natalie, Weelairmeen, and brothers Gary and Wedmark. She was predeceased by her mother Anna Nelson.