Last Updated: February 2026
When people search for Gina Poitier, they are often looking for information about the daughter of legendary actor Sidney Poitier — a household name in Hollywood history. Although Gina did not pursue a career in acting like her father or some of her siblings, her life story reflects creativity, family devotion, and independent achievement.
This comprehensive and factual profile explores Gina Poitier’s background, education, career endeavors, family life, and lasting impact, grounded in verified public records and respectful of privacy.
1. Who Was Gina Poitier?
Gina Poitier (born 1961 — died May 27, 2018) was the youngest daughter of esteemed actor Sidney Poitier and his first wife, Juanita Hardy. While not a public figure in the entertainment world like her father or some siblings, Gina carved out her own path in fashion and business.
She was known for her creative talent, warm personality, and dedication to her family and community.
2. Early Life and Family Background
Gina was born in 1961 to Sidney Poitier and Juanita Hardy. She was the youngest of their four daughters; her sisters were Beverly, Pamela, and Sherri Poitier.
Later in life, Sidney Poitier married actress Joanna Shimkus, with whom he had two more daughters — Anika and Sydney Tamiia Poitier — making Gina a part of a large and close‑knit family.
Growing up, Gina spent her first years in Pleasantville, New York, and later moved with her family to Stuyvesant, New York. Her early years were shaped by the warmth and values of a family deeply rooted in resilience, creativity, and mutual support.
3. Education and Creative Interests
Unlike some of her siblings who pursued acting, Gina took a different creative path centered around fashion and design.
Formal Education
- Rutgers University – Gina began her college education here.
- State University of New York at Albany – She completed a degree in fine arts.
- American College of Applied Arts, Atlanta – She earned a degree in fashion merchandise.
Her academic journey reflects a passion for creativity and aesthetic expression, leading her toward a profession where she could blend design with empowerment.
4. Career and Fashion Endeavors
After completing her studies, Gina pursued entrepreneurial ventures in fashion.
Bejai Designs
Gina co‑founded Bejai Designs, a boutique focused on stylish, elegant clothing for plus‑sized women. The boutique was driven by her belief that fashion should be accessible, empowering, and confidence‑boosting for women of all shapes and sizes.
While not a mainstream celebrity designer, Gina’s work in fashion reflected her creativity, business insight, and commitment to uplifting others through her artistic vision.
Later in life, she also worked as an administrative assistant, applying her skills in a grounded, real‑world setting.
5. Marriage and Children
Gina’s personal life was marked by a long‑standing partnership and a close, loving family.
Husband: Gaetan Gouraige
Gina met Gaetan Gouraige, her high school sweetheart, early in life. The couple married in 1988 and remained devoted to one another for decades.
Together they had four children:
- Guylaine Marie‑Rose Gouraige
- Gabrielle Marie‑Therese Gouraige
- Etienne Poitier Gouraige
- Emmanuel Gouraige (who sadly passed before Gina)
Family was at the heart of Gina’s life, and she balanced her creative work with dedicated, joyful motherhood.
6. Gina’s Sudden Passing
On May 27, 2018, Gina Poitier passed away at the age of 57. Her death was described as sudden and unexpected. Her family did not publicly disclose the cause, underscoring their desire for privacy during this difficult time.
Her obituary celebrated her warmth, creativity, and the profound love she shared with her family, describing her loss as deeply felt by all who knew her.
7. Legacy and Family Remembrance
Gina Poitier’s legacy resonates not through Hollywood fame but through family love, creative expression, and community impact.
Her children and siblings have honored her memory in personal ways, including tributes at significant life moments — such as her eldest daughter’s college graduation, where a cap tribute read, “Mom, this one’s for you.”
Though she chose a quiet life behind the scenes, Gina’s spirit lives on through her family’s stories, her creative contributions, and the love she shared with those closest to her.
8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who was Gina Poitier?
Gina Poitier was the youngest daughter of actor Sidney Poitier and Juanita Hardy. She was known for her creative pursuits in fashion and her dedication to family.
2. When was Gina Poitier born and when did she die?
She was born in 1961 and passed away on May 27, 2018, at age 57.
3. What did Gina Poitier do professionally?
Gina co‑founded a fashion boutique called Bejai Designs and later worked as an administrative assistant.
4. Who was Gina Poitier’s husband?
Her husband was Gaetan Gouraige, her high school sweetheart whom she married in 1988.
5. Did Gina Poitier have children?
Yes, she had four children — Guylaine, Gabrielle, Etienne, and Emmanuel (the latter passed before her).
6. Was Gina Poitier an actress?
No, unlike her father and some of her siblings, she did not pursue a public career in acting.
9. Conclusion
Gina Poitier lived a life defined by family devotion, creative ambition, and quiet impact. Though she did not follow her father into the spotlight of Hollywood, her path reflected individuality, compassion, and entrepreneurial spirit.
Her story reminds us that legacy is not only shaped by fame and public acclaim, but by love, resilience, and the meaningful connections we build within our lives.
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