Phabian X Caribe

On January 9th, 1999, Phabian Caribe (lovingly nicknamed Bamboo by his mother) entered this world. At 25 he departed this world on August 18th, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love and compassion that will forever be cherished. He was born with a caring soul and had the most beautiful smile that he shared with the world, a steadfast loyalty to friends and family.  

He graduated from North Olmsted High School and went on to get his associate degree in education. He wasn’t stopping there; he went back to school and was working on his masters. While holding down a full-time job and going to school full-time Phabian made sure he made time for the multitude of family and friends he had.  

He loved to ride his Harley. He loved cooking for his friends and family. He was great at sculpting, drawing, and painting. He was an avid reader. Mythology and young adult science fiction was his go to. He loved to teach whether it be in the classroom or in everyday interactions.  

Phabian will be remembered for his impeccable sense of style, as he was known as the best dresser among his friends. His outfits were always carefully put together, reflecting his unique personality and attention to detail.  

Phabian was a force of nature, determined to help provide for his family in any way he could. His family meant more to him than anything else in the world, something he proudly and often spoke of.  

His intelligence was unmatched, he was dedicated to school and learning and aspired to get his doctorate degree. His passion for education and advocacy for social justice issues were a testament to his sharp mind and his dedication to making a difference in the world.  

A gifted educator with a passion for history, Phabian dedicated his life to teaching, not only imparting knowledge but also nurturing his students with care and understanding. His classroom was a haven where students felt valued, supported, and loved. Always leaving notes of wisdom on their desks and providing encouraging pep talks in the hallways. He believed deeply in the power of education and the importance of ensuring that every student knew their worth, both academically and personally. He spoke of his dreams of opening a school for underprivileged children, aiming to provide equal opportunities in education for all and in his own words “where kids can feel excited, safe and happy.” Phabian was passionate about demarginalizing education and making a difference one child at a time.   

In addition to his professional achievements, Phabian took special care of his grandmother and cherished his family deeply. He cared for his grandmother with unwavering dedication, extending that same care and kindness to everyone he encountered. He was a beacon of loyalty, always offering a kind word, a helping hand, and a warm smile. He cultivated relationships rich in love, laughter, and mutual respect, serving as a best friend and an extension of family to many.  

Phabian's passion for poetry and advocacy for social justice shone through in his performances at poetry slams across Cleveland, using his voice to shed light on issues of racial injustice, oppression, and the marginalization of education, leaving a lasting impact on his audience. His words will be forever remembered.  

Phabian's sudden departure has left an irreplaceable void, but his spirit will live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him. He would want his family, students and friends to remember that they are capable of overcoming anything and that he believed in them.  

He is survived by his mother Okiki Caribe (Keisha), his grandmother India Caribe, his grandfather Francisco Sanchez, his uncle Omibaron Audifre (Denise), his sisters MiLailani Caribe (who preceded him in death), Amari Torres, Cadence, Aaliyah, and Ariana, his niece Yesenia whom he adored, cousins Davian and Elian Audifre, and a host of other relatives and friends. 

Visitation will be held Saturday, August 24, 2024, from 1pm until 3pm, and 3pm until-4pm will be an hour of sharing memories and reflections, held at Brown-Robinson Funeral Home and Celebration Center, 6075 Middle Ridge Rd., Lorain, Ohio 44053.