Laurent Gerant

Laurent Etzer Gerant, 86, passed away on October 23, 2024, surrounded by several generations of his loving family. He was the devoted husband of Amelia [Nordelus] Gerant. They shared 57 years together, living in Brooklyn after traveling to the U.S. from their home country of Haiti, before settling in Berks County, Pennsylvania.

Born in Jeremie, Haiti, on March 29, 1938 Laurent was the son of the late Massillon Gerant and Julie Etienne. He attended high school in Haiti and later worked in building support services for various companies throughout New York and Pennsylvania.

Laurent was a member of Zion Church of God in Temple, Pennsylvania. He loved going to church and was an avid studier of the Bible. He related to stories of the New Testament and lived meticulously by the word of God.

Most of the time, Laurent could be found in his garden. He loved working with nature and was a prolific grower of vegetables. He tended fondly to his apple and pear trees. Laurent spoke often of the green hills of Haiti from his youth.

In addition to his wife, Amelia, Laurent is survived by his children: Pierre Gerant, Yanique Gerant, Guerda Merzy, Guerline Gerant, Patrick Gerant, and Johnny Gerant; his 19 grandchildren: Nirva Lozier, Starlene Auguste, Nicklange Pierre, Angelo Pierre, Thelangie Pierre, Jessica Merzy, Joshua Gerant, Jonathan Gerant, Jason Petion, Sheldon Gerant, Stephan Gerant, Skylee Gerant, Gordon Edlaire Gerant, Frantzerson Gerant, Francesca Gerant, Ralph Gerant, Nephtalie Gerant, Cassandra Gerant, and Christelle Gerant; his nephew, Caleb Gerant; 14 great-grandchildren; and his sister, Marguerite Gerant. He is predeceased by his twin brother, Laurent Marcel Gerant, and his grandchild, Ashley Pierre.

The funeral service will be held on Saturday, November 2, 2024, at 9:00 a.m. at Zion Church of God, 4870 Kutztown Road, Temple, PA 19510. A viewing will be held from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. at the church. The burial will follow at Laureldale Cemetery.

Kuhn Funeral Home and Crematory is honored to serve Laurent's family. Condolences may be expressed at kuhnfuneralhomes.com.