Hundreds Bid Farewell to CFD & RCB Cofounder, Jeanette HoSang

TAPPAN, October 4, 2024 -- Over four hundred mourners, headed by Vincent HoSang and family, relatives, employees, customers, and friends converged on the First Baptist Church, 456 North Street, White Plains, New York to celebrate the life of wife, mother and cofounder of Rockland based Caribbean Food Delights and Mount Vernon’s Royal Caribbean Bakery, Jeanette HoSang.

The Jamaican born business leader died at her residence on August 30, 2024, after a lengthy battle with kidney and heart diseases.

Scores of messages, tributes, and letters of condolences from the public and private sectors includingCongressman, Mike Lawler, Congresswoman, Yvette Clarke, Consul General of Jamaica to New York, Alsion Roach Wilson, Jamaica Ambassador to WashingtonAudrey Marks, Prime Minister of Jamaica Andrew Holness, Former Prime Minister of Jamaica P.J. Patterson all remembered Jeanie, as she is affectionately called, as a remarkable woman whose life embodies the strength and grace of the Jamaican spirit.

Consul General of Jamaica Alsion Roach Wilson in her message read by Community Relations Officer, Christopher Benjamin said, “Her spirit of resilience, coupled with an unwavering commitment to excellence, has left an indelible mark on the business landscape. Mrs. Jeanette HoSang’s life was a beacon of hope and inspiration, and her impact will be felt for generations to come.”

Jeanette, together with her husband Vincent, cofounded the largest global producer of Jamaican style patties, Caribbean Food Delights and Royal Caribbean Bakery 46 years ago. Prime Minister Holness in his condolence letter paid homage to the couple’scontribution. He remarked, “Together you accomplished what many have aspire to – building a thriving business in the United States that brought a taste of Jamaica to so many, while remaining true to your roots and continuing to serve as true Jamaicans. Your journey and success story reflect not only the fulfilment of your collective ‘American Dream’ but also the enduring connection to your homeland, which you both cherished deeply.”

A registered nurse by profession and an avid tennis player, Jeanette was celebrated by many. In his letter to the family, former Prime Minister, Honorable PJ Patterson said, “Jeanette was a paragon of excellence, a visionary entrepreneur, and a beacon of inspiration for the Caribbean Diaspora. Her journey from talented student and tennis player in Jamaica to a successful businesswoman in the United States is a testament of her indomitable spirit and unwavering dedication.”

Her employees in a collective tribute said, “Her contribution to the foundation of our existence speaks volumes and she will be deeply missed. From recipes to policies and procedures, she made her mark throughout the length and breadth of the organization. Lady Jeanette, we are left to carry on but know that your work was not in vain. From all of us, may your soul rest in peace.”

Jeanette’s children poured their hearts out in letters of love to their beloved mother, saying how they will miss her but will find comfort in fond memories of the quality time spent together as a family, shopping and preparing home cooked meals. They all spoke about the many recipes she left behind including her signature dumpling mix, of which all in attendance received a sample bag. Her obviously teary-eyed husband Vincent tried to hold back tears but could not and remained speechless during the service.

Other tributes came from members of the community, partner organizations: Organization for International Development, Team Jamaica Bickle, the Mona School of Business and Management among others and countless relatives and friends.

Reverend Canon Calvin C. McIntyre officiated the funeral service, along with assistance from Reverend Noel N. Chin and Reverend Pierre-Andre` H. Duvert, PhD. Jeanette’s body was laid to rest in her family mausoleum at The Kensico Cemetery in Valhalla, and the repast was held at Mansion on Broadway in White Plains, New York.

Jeanette is survived by her devoted husband, and loving children: Damian HoSang (wife Anna), Sabrina HoSang Jordan (husband Sean), and Simone HoSang (partner Lance Kehoe). Her younger son, Brian HoSang predeceased her. She will be lovingly remembered by her grandchildren: Phoebe, Jasmine, Gunnar, Briana, Penny, Sebastian, Mia, and Joon.

She was a beloved sister to Patrick (wife Jantana), Derrick, Arlene (husband Richard), Kevin (wife Lisa), Beverly (late), Barbara (late), Winston (late), and Paulette (late). She is also survived by her nieces and nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews, cousins and a host of other relatives, employees, friends, and well-wishers who will miss her dearly.

Mrs. HoSang’s legacy will continue through her family, the many lives she has touched, and the meaningful contributions made in her memory. May her soul rest in peace.

CONTACT:
Janice Julian, MBA
Marketing/PR
117 Route 303
Tappan, NY 10983
845-398-3000