Celebrating the Life of Orman Cyril Fournillier

“Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’”
— John 14:6

“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”
— 2 Timothy 1:7

Orman Cyril Fournillier was a man of unwavering faith, quiet strength, and genuine love. His life was defined not by titles or accomplishments, but by the lives he touched. A uniquely analytical thinker, he possessed a rare ability to listen patiently before speaking with wisdom. Family, friends, students, and colleagues sought his counsel because they knew every conversation would leave them with greater clarity, encouragement, and hope. His unmistakable laugh, gentle spirit, and loving nature made everyone around him feel valued, respected, and cared for.


Born on July 7, 1943, at San Fernando Hospital, Trinidad, Orman displayed exceptional intelligence and curiosity from an early age. He attended Siparia Union School, where his love for learning first began to flourish. He later pursued studies in Business, earning his Bachelor’s Degree in Business from the University of the West Indies in 1975—an achievement he remained especially proud of throughout his life. One childhood story he often shared involved mischievously taking eggs from Mr. Chin, a lesson he later reflected upon as a reminder that true character is shaped through honesty, humility, and growth.

Although educated in Business, Orman knew his true calling was education. He began his teaching career as a Woodwork teacher at South East Port of Spain Secondary School, where he inspired students to value discipline, creativity, and pride in their work. He later devoted over 25 years to Barataria Senior Comprehensive Secondary School, teaching Economics, Principles of Business, and Principles of Accounts. Beyond the classroom, he served for many years as a Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) Examiner, contributing to the educational development of students across the region. His influence extended far beyond the subjects he taught, leaving a lasting impression on generations of young people.

In 1971, Orman married Janice Bernadine Noel, and together they were blessed with four children: Orson René Fournillier, Jason Warren Fournillier, Jandelle Lu-Ann Fournillier, and Jevon Christian Fournillier. They were married for 28 years and remained forever connected through the family they built together. Nothing brought Orman greater joy than watching his children and grandchildren grow. As a father he was a dependable provider, and as a grandfather he was loving, encouraging, prayerful, and deeply devoted to every member of his family.

Outside of his profession, Orman embraced life’s simple joys. He loved gardening, faithfully followed West Indies cricket, enjoyed reading the daily newspaper, and appreciated the music of John Denver before later finding even greater joy in hymns and songs of praise and worship. A gifted craftsman, he designed and built a beautiful wooden divider that still stands in the family home today—a lasting symbol of his creativity, skill, and enduring presence. Family and friends also fondly remember his delicious sada bake and smoked herring, as well as the conversations shared in the kitchen while meals slowly came together. In his younger years, he was an accomplished shot put athlete whose remarkable strength and skill earned the admiration of those who watched him compete.

Above all else, Orman was a man of deep and abiding faith. Throughout his life, and especially in prayer, he often proclaimed the words of Jesus from John 14:6, reminding those around him that Christ is “the way and the truth and the life.” He also drew continual strength from 2 Timothy 1:7, living with the confidence that God had given him “a spirit of power, love, and a sound mind.” These Scriptures were not simply favorite verses—they were the foundation upon which he lived.

Orman’s greatest legacy is found not only in the classrooms where he taught or the things he built with his hands, but in the lives he shaped through his example. His wisdom continues to guide, his prayers continue to inspire, and his love continues to live on in his family, his former students, his friends, and all who were privileged to know him. His life reminds us that the greatest measure of success is found not in what we accumulate, but in what we give to others.

As we celebrate the life of Orman Cyril Fournillier, we give thanks for a devoted father, grandfather, educator, craftsman, mentor, and faithful servant of God. His legacy will continue in every lesson remembered, every prayer whispered, every act of kindness shared, and every life made better because he was a part of it.

“Well done, good and faithful servant… Enter into the joy of your Lord.”
— Matthew 25:23