Violet Mae "Vi" (Kouri) Massad

Violet “Vi” (Kouri) Massad, 93 of Natick, formerly of Worcester, passed into eternal life on Tuesday, August 9, 2022, surrounded by loved ones.

She was born in Worcester, the daughter of the late Alex Moses Kouri and Sadie (Stephan) Kouri.  She graduated from  the  High School of Commerce and earned her Bachelor’s degree in social work from Southern New Hampshire University.  Violet  worked in the family  clothing business, A.M. Kouri of Webster. She later worked as a Social Worker for Elder Home Care of Worcester.  In her retirement, “Vi” was a substitute teacher in the Worcester Public Schools for many years.   “Vi” was a member of St. George’s Orthodox Cathedral and its women’s club, the Worcester Women’s History Project, and the WPI Alumni Wives Association.  

“Vi’s” husband of 54 years Robert B. Massad passed away in 2011.   She is survived by two  daughters, Marilyn J. Massad of Provincetown,  Susan J. Massad of Natick;  a son Robert B. Massad, Jr. of Thornton, New Hampshire;  a granddaughter, Hannah C. Ross of Washington, DC.;  a sister, Lorraine Lian and her husband, Judge Joseph Lian Jr. of Worcester, a brother-in-law Ron Abdow of Longmeadow, and many nieces and nephews.  Violet  was predeceased by her brothers, William who was killed in action during World War II, Edmund, and Paul Kouri, and her sisters, Lillian Courey, and Glay Abdow.

Violet was very engaged in her community, could almost always draw connections between people, and seemed to know almost everyone.  She had a clever sense of humor, loved her daily long walks, going to the J.C.C. pool, cooking Lebanese food, and hosting gatherings.  Vi also enjoyed Golf and Tennis and notably recorded a hole in one at Green Hill Golf course.  She had a passion for her family, and friends, and was so proud of the successes of her children.  Violet will be dearly missed by her extended family.

Violet’s funeral will be held Tuesday, August 16, 2022 at 11 am, in St George Orthodox Cathedral, 30 Anna Street. Burial next to her husband will follow in Hope Cemetery.  A period of calling hours will be held from 9 am to 10:45 am in the cathedral prior to her service.  In lieu of flowers memorial donations in her name can  be made to St. George’s Orthodox Cathedral Endowment fund, 30 Anna St.,  Worcester, 01604.  The MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St is honored to assist the family with arrangements.  “May her Memory be Eternal