A Celebration of Life: Olienne V. Francis-Arnold — April 9, 1937-December 29, 2025.

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Olienne V. Francis-Arnold, who passed on December 29, 2025, at the age of 88. A hardworking native of Saint Lucia, born April 9, 1937, to parents James and Lucy Francis, and the third of twelve siblings, Olienne will be remembered as a great provider who enjoyed her service to God, spending time with her family, and was known for her love of music, dancing, cooking, crafting, and community service.

Her love of music, particularly Country and Western, led her to notable success in dance competitions in St. Lucia. She was an exceptional cook whose meals were rich in flavor, whether she prepared soups, stews, or baked dishes such as chicken, macaroni pie, and a variety of cakes, pastries, and fruit pies. She also possessed remarkable creativity and craftsmanship, spending countless hours sewing garments, creating fabric flowers for her cultural dolls, and producing crocheted tablecloths and rose-patterned bedspreads—talents and traditions that will be deeply missed. 

Ms. Olienne V. Francis Arnold has worked for the Department of Human Services in different departments since the sixties up until her retirement. Her involvement in the community dates to the early 70s, when she worked with the Rotary Clubs as a cook and an operations assistant. Olienne was also a member of the Saint Croix Lucians Unity Association Inc., where she participated in community activities aimed at uniting neighborhood members, and especially aiding the elderly and those less fortunate. 

We, as a family, would like to extend special thanks to all who have been closely involved with our mom. Mercedes, Donna, Mary, and Liz, special thanks and appreciation go out to you, especially in the immediate days of Olienne’s passing. Ms. Lee Lee, Ms. Jay, Ms. Simmons, Xiomara Hernandez and family, Adisa Browne, Delisha Byron, and Francillia Francis, we thank you for your specific assistance in the immediate days following Olienne’s passing. A special note of gratitude is extended to Damian Marius for the friendship, compassion, and constant presence you shared with our mom. Your kindness, listening ear, and helping hands meant more than words can express.

Ms. Francis-Arnold is survived by her daughter, Claudia M. Desormeaux, and her sons, Michael P. Francis, Richard R. Francis, and Dennis P. Francis; her brother, Thomah and family, and her sisters, Helena and family, Mary and family, May and family, Jacinta and family, Joan and family, and Frances and family. She is also survived by her granddaughters, Kassandra A. Desormeaux, Priscilla A. Desormeaux, Michaila Francis, Dinalie, Vernique, and her grandsons, Myles A. Desormeaux and Cordarryl; her great-grandchildren, Noah Remy, Izayah Remy, Ariah Desormeaux, Andre` Desormeaux, Kailie, Aleesiya, Kevin, Paulson, Dixon, Keith, Kymani, Rayquan, and Nathan, along with other family members and friends too numerous to mention.

Her memorial service will be held at Saint Ann’s Church located in Barren Spot, St. Croix USVI on Friday, February 13, 2026, at 10:00 am.

Because of my mom's love for being comfortable in life, the dress code is to be comfortable in your color, and because of her love for cultural wear-madras, a hint of Madras in your color, full Madras, or casual Madras will be fitting as we celebrate her life.

THANK-YOU ACKNOWLEDGMENT

The family of Olienne V. Francis-Arnold extends heartfelt thanks and sincere appreciation to all who have shown love, support, and kindness during this time of bereavement. Your prayers, visits, phone calls, words of comfort, and acts of service have been a source of strength and encouragement to our family.