The Holy Rosary – My companion
October 23, 2024
National Vocations Awareness Week 2024
October 23, 2024
Michelle Dianne Brown-Titte passed on Thursday, Oct 3 and the funeral Mass was held Tuesday, Oct 8th
Michelle Dianne Brown-Titte was born on October 18, 1974, to her mother Shiela Brown. She grew up with two sisters, Karlene Miguel and Alana Quash, initially living on Rock Road before moving to Lowkie Trace, Penal. Michelle’s education took her from Dyanand Vedic Memorial in Penal to Penal Junior Secondary School, and finally to Siparia Senior Secondary School, where she achieved success in nine subjects.
After a brief six-month teaching stint, Michelle entered public service, working in the Ministry of Agriculture until her passing. Her professional life, however, was just one facet of a rich and purposeful existence.
At 19, Michelle met her future husband, Robby Titte, through her friendship with Robby’s sister, Nicole. Their courtship was marked by mutual care and affection, with Robby often giving Michelle gifts and Michelle reciprocating with her culinary skills. They married on January 30, 1999, in a ceremony that became part of family lore. As the homily humourously notes, “They were late for their wedding, and the priest patiently waited!”
Michelle and Robby’s union was blessed with two daughters: Kayla, born in 2000, and Kimlyn, born two years later. Michelle raised her children with a strong foundation in faith, hard work, respect, and dedication.
Pillars of Faith
Michelle Dianne Brown-Titte’s dedication to St Dominic’s Roman Catholic Church in Penal was all-encompassing, spanning over a decade and touching every aspect of parish life. As the parish administrator and community leader of Penal, she was, as the homily aptly describes, “both the head and heart of the parish, where she never saw her work as separate from her prayer life.” Her roles within the church were diverse and impactful, reflecting her deep commitment to her faith and community.
As a Eucharistic Minister, Michelle not only served during Mass but also brought the Blessed Sacrament to the sick and homebound. Her dedication to this ministry was unwavering; the eulogy notes that even on the Sunday before she passed, she and Fr Peter visited people in Penal and Morne Diable, bringing them communion. This act of service in her final days exemplifies her lifelong commitment to her community.
Michelle’s organisational skills shone in her work with the Parish Council. She meticulously prepared for meetings, planning discussion outlines in advance. During the meetings, she took detailed notes, which she would later type up and distribute, ensuring everyone stayed informed and involved. Her leadership extended to prayer groups as well. The homily mentions that she was even “a founder of a prayer group in Penal,” demonstrating her initiative in fostering spiritual growth within her community.
Despite being involved in more traditional ministries, Michelle embraced modern technology to spread the word of God. She assisted with the newly formed media ministry, sending daily reflections, Mass links, readings, and event information through group chats. This work helped keep the community connected and focused on their personal relationships with God.
At the time of her passing, Michelle was on the path to becoming a lay minister, a step that would have further deepened her already profound commitment to her faith and community.
Her dedication and wisdom were widely recognised; as the homily notes, “She was sought for guidance for anything, be it personal, religious or matters of the church.”
Michelle’s faith was the cornerstone of her life. As the homily states, “She was more than just a chief cook and bottle washer—she was a leader, a friend, and a faithful servant of the Lord.” Her sister once questioned her extensive church work, to which Michelle simply replied, “This is my job.” This response encapsulated her sense of purpose and devotion.
From the Heart to the Table
Beyond her church work, Michelle’s culinary talents were another significant way she expressed love and care for others. Her skills in the kitchen were diverse and deeply appreciated by all who had the pleasure of tasting her creations. She excelled in baking a variety of treats, including sponge cakes, fruit cakes, and sweetbread, recipes she had learned from her mother. These baked goods were not just for her family but were often given as gifts, especially during holidays.
Michelle’s cooking repertoire extended beyond baked goods. She was skilled in making traditional sweets like fudge and kurma, demonstrating her connection to local culinary traditions. Her savoury dishes were equally impressive; she loved to cook curry and make Macaroni pie. Her holiday cooking was particularly special and eagerly anticipated by loved ones. The eulogy poignantly notes that “For Christmas (this year especially) and Easter every year forward, the family and friends would miss the joy and love she expressed through these gifts.”
Michelle’s culinary skills, like her church work, were a manifestation of her generous spirit and her desire to nurture and care for others. Whether through her spiritual leadership or her home-cooked meals, Michelle consistently found ways to bring joy and comfort to those around her.
Leaving a Lasting Legacy: Michelle’s Enduring Influence
Those who knew Michelle described her as bubbly and cheerful, with a smile that could “light up a room.” She had a talent for uplifting others, often sending encouraging messages and videos to boost spirits. The eulogy notes, “When it was time for fun, it was time for fun, relaxation and enjoyment. When it was time to be serious, it was time to be serious, focused, calm and collected.”
Michelle Dianne Brown-Titte’s passing left a profound void in her family and community. As the homily poignantly asks, “Can we go on without our chief cook and bottle washer?” Yet, it also provides an answer: “She’s probably up there right now, organising Heaven with her notepad and pen. Hurry up… there is work up here too.” The impact of Michelle’s life is perhaps best summed up in the homily: “She embodied the universal call of Catholicism, always looking beyond the immediate to the bigger picture of God’s plan.” Her life was a testament to her favourite Bible verse, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Phil 4:13).
