Jerry Hekimian

St. Mary Armenian Church proudly recognizes the late Jerry Hekimian who passed away in 2007. Jerry was born in Aleppo, Syria and moved to the United States shortly after World War II.

Interestingly, Jerry arrived in the United States already an American citizen, for it was his grandfather who had already been to America in the 1800’s and was naturalized, along with Jerry’s father.  Jerry married Margot Ziver in 1963 and together they had two daughters, Tanya (now in Los Angeles) and Lily (living in the Washington DC area).

Upon Jerry’s arrival in Washington DC, he immediately became immersed in many organizations and church affairs.  He was continuously involved in St. Mary Armenian Church Food Festivals (like the one we our enjoying today) serving as Chairperson for over 40 years. He was also a member of the parish council for countless terms serving in diverse positions, all while contributing much time and energy to other organizations such as:  Armenian General Benevolent Union, Armenian Students Association, Armenian Evangelical Association, and the Armenian Missionary Association.

Thanks to community members like Jerry, we are enjoying the fruits of their labor today.

Jean Sayian

A long-time parishioner and church volunteer, Jean Sayian passed away suddenly in December 2005.  The Armenian community and friends were in disbelief given Jean's active, vivacious and positive personality.  Together with her husband Vaughn, they were continually reliable volunteers for the church and the Armenian community.

Since moving to Washington in 1970, she devoted herself to many Armenian causes including the Armenian Assembly, the AGBU and the AACA. What she truly enjoyed however, was volunteering for St Mary Armenian Church and working with her friends there.  At the church, she was always a fixture at the annual food festival and the time-consuming preparations beforehand.  She served on the Women’s Guild as a member and treasurer for many years and spearheaded numerous events, causes and fundraisers.

Jean was born fourth of six siblings in Brantford, Ontario; her parents emigrated there from Turkey to escape the genocide.  She eventually moved to the Boston area where she met her husband Vaughn.  They were married in Boston in 1963 and had two children, Carol and David.  In 1970, the family moved to Rockville and started attending St Mary Armenian Church.  They quickly immersed themselves in the church and Armenian community and developed tremendously close friendships.  Her activities and community involvements are intertwined with the history of St Mary Armenian Church.  Her hard work, positive attitude, volunteer spirit and generous persona left a void in the local community that is still felt today.