A Heartbreaking Thanksgiving: The Sacrifice of Two Sisters in a House Fire
On a day typically marked by gratitude and family gatherings, tragedy struck in Orange, New Jersey, as two sisters lost their lives in a devastating house fire. Frantzia Fleury, 49, and Pojanee “PJ” Fleury, 42, perished while attempting to rescue their disabled father, highlighting their incredible bravery and selflessness.
The fire ignited at approximately 5 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day, sending shockwaves through the community and disrupting what was meant to be a joyful celebration. While the cause of the fire remains unknown, the impact on the family and neighbors is profound. Surrounded by love during the holiday, the family faced an unimaginable crisis.
When the flames engulfed their Mosswood Avenue home, Frantzia and PJ made the courageous decision to go back inside to save their father, who suffers from dementia and requires significant care. Their actions were heroic; they successfully managed to pull him from the inferno but, unfortunately, couldn’t escape the deadly smoke and flames themselves. The Essex County Prosecutor’s Office confirmed their tragic passing at 6:45 p.m., just over an hour after the fire erupted.
Remarkably, seven other family members, including their father, managed to escape without fatal injuries. The ordeal left them traumatized, grappling with the loss of Frantzia and PJ, who were not only daughters and sisters but also cherished members of the community.
Frantzia Fleury was a dedicated Marine Corps veteran who later transitioned into a career as an x-ray technologist, exemplifying commitment and strength in her professional life. Pojanee Fleury was an accomplished entrepreneur, having founded Brown Eyez Magazine, a wellness publication tailored for African Americans. Both women, devoted mothers, leave behind children who will carry their legacies forward. Insights into their lives illustrate the deep bonds they shared with family and their mutual dedication to their community.
In the aftermath of this heart-wrenching event, family members have expressed their devastation. A cousin spoke to ABC 7, stating, “These two women had big hearts. They were very deeply devoted to their families. And it’s just a tragedy.” The emotional toll is compounded by the uncertainty surrounding their father’s awareness of the tragedy, as he is currently hospitalized due to smoke inhalation, fighting for his recovery.
To support the surviving family members during this unimaginably difficult time, a GoFundMe campaign has been organized by family friends Sidney Augustin and Christine von Steiger. The fundraiser aims to assist with funeral expenses and provide relief to the family as they navigate the aftermath of their loss. In a time of grief, communities often come together, demonstrating the importance of support in healing and remembrance.
This tragic incident underscores the unpredictability of life and how quickly circumstances can change. The bravery of Frantzia and PJ serves as a poignant reminder of love’s resilience even in the face of unimaginable adversity. Their spirits will live on in the hearts of those who knew them, and their memory will undoubtedly inspire future generations.