Hermina Joseph

Hermina Joseph, 86, of Bushkill, Pennsylvania, passed away on March 11, 2025, after a brave battle with congestive heart disease.Born on June 20, 1938, in Grande Rivière Du Nord, Haiti, to Zachary and Rosa Toussaint, Hermina lived a life marked by strength, love, and a relentless drive for progress. She attended Madame Waldèque École de Brevet du Cap Haïtien before going to the Seventh Day Adventist Temple Number 1 in Cap Haitien, where she forged life-long friendships.

Hermina was a devoted wife, mother, godmother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend. Known for her strong personality and entrepreneurial spirit, Hermina was always striving to better herself and others. Whether it was through her love of sewing, singing, or simply being a social butterfly, Hermina's charm and wit made a lasting impression on everyone she met.

She had a unique ability to break down barriers with her warmth and directness, often asking people, “What do you want out of life?” and reminding them to “Do your best.” Her mantra, “Do your best,” was a constant source of encouragement to those around her, and she wasn’t afraid to push (or "bully" in the most loving way) people to reach their full potential. Hermina was a self-taught Spanish speaker and was also fluent in English, French, and Haitian Creole. She always had a notebook with her, jotting down life lessons and quotes that could inspire others and fuel their growth. Hermina’s warmth and compassion touched the lives of many, and her legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

On Memorial Day, May 30th, 1970, Hermina married the love of her life, Michel Arthur Joseph. They were married for 46 years. Together, they had their son, Gary Joseph, and built a loving home and family. Hermina was the devoted caretaker for her husband during the last 6 years of his life, staying by his bedside when he took his final breath. Hermina believed in having a plan and working hard to achieve it. Her goal was simple: a family and a home. With dedication and a focus on saving, she achieved a near-perfect credit score of 835 and purchased not one, but two homes.
Hermina's commitment to progress, her unwavering belief in the power of hard work, and her determination to help others reach their potential will always be remembered. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

She is survived by her son, Gary Joseph, daughter-in-law, Rukaiyah Joseph, grandsons Jamil Joseph, Kivon Harper, Stefon Harper, and Arthur Joseph, great-grandsons Kai Joseph and Noah Joseph, her brothers, sisters, cousins, nieces, nephews, godchildren, family, and many close friends.

There will be a funeral service on Saturday, March 22, 2025, at 11:00 am at Faith International Church, 530 Seven Bridge Road, East Stroudsburg, PA 18301. Family will receive friends from 10:00 am to the time of service. Burial will follow at Sand Hill Cemetery.  Arrangements have been entrusted to the Joseph J. Pula Funeral Home, Inc., 23 N 9th Street, Stroudsburg, PA 18360.

pulafuneralhome.com

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