Elias R. "Hajie" El-Khoury

Mr. Elias R. “Hajie” El-Khoury, age 66, of Utica, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, May 5, 2006 at the St. Elizabeth Medical Center with his family and friends by his side. Born in Beirut, Lebanon on February 5, 1940, Elias was the son of Rafael and Annissey (Gadoun) El-Khoury. In 1966 he relocated to Sydney, Australia where he lived until 1972. He was joined in marriage to the former Jamile Boutros who lives in Australia. In 1973 he came to the U.S. and settled in Utica to join his brother Joseph Khoury and family who resided here. Mr. El-Khoury’s local employment included working position at Matters Fish Fry at the corner of Eagle and Miller Sts. Most recently, with the help and cooperation of his family he carried on the family business, Khoury’s Quick Stop at the intersection of Eagle St. and Conkling Ave. Gifted with great physical and emotional strength, Elias was a steadfast and loyal family man whose main concerns centered upon his family members and their well-being. His primary wish and his foremost goal in life was to bring about a lasting peace among those he loved. He lived according to a strong and honorable work ethic and was known as a man of his word, possessing a deep spiritual faith. Some of his favorite activities were traveling, especially to his homeland; dancing to Arabic music, and he will be remembered as a sharp dressed man with well accented jewelry. He had a knowledgeable interest in global politics and he enjoyed watching television newscasts. He was also a car enthusiast. All in all, as a man of noteworthy character and personality, Elias was loved by all and will be remembered fondly by many. Mr. El-Khoury is survived by his soulmate, Cynthia Stone, with whom he shared an unconditional love. He is also survived by his children, Joseph Elias El-Khoury, Beshara Elias “Charlie” El-Khoury, both of Utica, Claude Elias and Helen El-Khoury of Sidney, Australia, Daniel Elias El-Khoury, Samantha Mae El-Khoury, and Jason Arthur El-Khoury, all of Utica. In addition, he leaves his beloved grandchildren: Dominque, Elias, Christopher, and David; Steven, Madeline, and Dylan; and Victoria. He was anticipating the arrival of another grandson this fall. Also included among Mr. El-Khoury’s survivors are his sisters and brothers-in-law, Takla Hashash of CA, Marina Karam, Jeanette and Maroun Daw, all of Lebanon, and Laurice and George Bayroutte of Venezuela; his brothers and sisters-in-law, Joseph Khoury of Utica, Faraj and Julia Khoury of Lebanon, Maurice and Marie Khouri of Australia, John and Camelia Khoury of FL, and Michael and Magie Khoury of Australia. In addition, Elias is survived by many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins; Cindy’s mother, Beverly Jacobs; and his numerous friends, including Harry M. Houghton III, his “right-hand man” whom he loved as a son, Joyce Williams, John Barroncini, Lois J. Houghton, Beverly Evans, Butch LoGalbo, Warren Davis, and Jonathan Davis. He was predeceased by a brother, Gabriel; and a sister, Theresa. The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the nursing staff of the Special Care Unit of the St. Elizabeth Medical Center for the support and comfort they provided for Elias and his loved ones. Visitation will be held on Thursday (today) from 4-6 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. The Prayer of Incense will be offered at the funeral home on Thursday evening at 6:00. Please omit floral offerings. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend the Divine Liturgy of the Faithful Departed which will be celebrated for Mr. El-Khoury on Friday morning at 11:00 at St. Louis Gonzaga Church with Father Bassam Saade officiating.

Elias R. "Hajie" El-Khoury

February 5, 1940 - May 5, 2006