Mr. John A. "Abby" Massoud

UTICA – Mr. John A. “Abby” Massoud, gracefully went home to the Lord on Saturday, February 10, 2024, at nearly 97 years of age. John was never without his family by his side, showing their care and offering their prayers. Born in Utica “Capron” on February 27, 1927, John was the eldest son of the late Joseph and Catherine (Nazick) Massoud. At the age 17, he left high school and joined the United States Navy to honorably serve his country during World War II. He shipped out to the Pacific Theater of Operations and served upon three different ships as a signalman - the USS Augusta, the USS Portland, and the P.T. Tender. Upon his return from the war, he held positions with construction companies and Bendix Aviation Corporation. A gifted entrepreneur, he and his late brother, George, operated John A. Massoud Food Distributors and White’s Inn, a local tavern located in Washington Mills. He also participated in the family concern, Massoud’s Oud Lounge, Inc., in Washington Mills, the premier and iconic facility for celebratory events and notably weddings. The boys often said that the secret weapon to their success was their sister, Edna, who was positioned in the kitchen and had boundless energy and talent. In 1986, the business was humbly sold, but John could not stay retired, and went every day to contribute to the success of his brother’s endeavor at Massoud’s Tree Farm in Sauquoit. They all have fond memories of John splitting firewood and being a talented wreath maker. John possessed great business insight, had a sharp financial mind, and was very astute. Some of his humbling attributes were that of being trustworthy and a man of his word; he possessed a compassionate heart, and his hallmark was his immense generosity. He was man with a subtle quick wit and his “Johnisms” are quoted to this very day. He was the go-to wise brother and beloved uncle. He was a devoted and involved Uncle. If anyone had an activity, he made sure to be there. He encouraged each person to reach their full potential and worked with them to see that they always did their best. He truly found such joy in giving of himself, and loved that his family affectionately called him “Uncle J.” John and his siblings were taught by their parents to believe in God, remain close as family, and to work hard and find value in your chosen profession. John was an avid fisherman all his life and enjoyed salmon fishing and pheasant hunting with family and extended loved ones. He also loved race cars, and especially was a fan of local favorites Riche Evans and Lou Lazzaro who raced in this community at the Utica-Rome Speedway. He also enjoyed the excitement of NASCAR races and followed the career of Jeff Gordon. John created many special memories at the family hideaway, the Onieda Lake Camp. He had a particular favorite spot under the tree, where he spent time with the ducks and squirrels. He also loved spending time at Eddie’s, where he had many friends who gathered at the latter hours of the night to converse. His most cherished moments were the times the family was together, having dinners enjoying delicious Arabic and Italian foods. He was proud of what he accomplished with the love of his family in his life. John was quietly, but extremely devout. His faith was instilled in him from his youth, and he held it close through his whole life. His home parish was that of St. Louis Gonzaga Church. John is survived by his siblings and their spouses, Ann B. and Caleb A. George, PhD., Joseph T. Massoud, Anthony J. “Omar” and Judith (Kinney) Massoud; and his brother-in-law, Bill Lafferty. He fondly remembered his siblings and their loves who preceded him, George Massoud, Edna T. Lafferty, Bernadette and James L. “Jimmy D” Davis, Jr., and Catherine Marie “Kay” and Joseph Tamer. He also leaves to cherish his memory his nieces and nephews, Sandy, Caleb, and Allen; Veronica, Catherine, George, and Norma; Joseph, Melanie, and Stephanie; John, Maggie, J. Matthew, and J. Andrew; Christina, James, and Christopher; and Doreen, and Joseph; as well as many great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins; and his sister-in-law, Janet (Mozloom) Massoud. He and Omar were the best of friends as well as brothers, who could ask for anything more in this life? The family wishes to extend their gratitude to Dr. Celesta Hunsiker, John’s longtime physician with whom he shared a very comfortable trust. Much appreciation is conveyed for the compassionate and attentive care he received from the nurses and entire staff, including Makenzie, of the Presbyterian Home for CNY. They provided him with so much love and attention, and he was very grateful for their care and regard. Each day he was also surrounded by the love of all his family. Visitation will be held on Monday, February 19, 2024 from 4:00-7:00 p.m. at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. In lieu of floral offerings, memorial contributions in John’s honor may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital online at www.stjude.org/donate; envelopes will also be available at the funeral home. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend John’s funeral service and Celebration of Life which will commence on Tuesday, February 20, 2024 at 9:30 a.m. at St. Louis Gonzaga Church, 520 Rutger St., where the Divine Liturgy of the Faithful Departed will be celebrated by Fr. Boutrous El Hachem. Committal services with Military Honors conferred will follow at Christ Our Savior Mausoleum Chapel at Calvary Cemetery.

Mr. John A. "Abby" Massoud

February 27, 1927 - February 10, 2024