Obituary: Rose Yessayan Bazarbashian, Nurse and Tekeyan Leader

Rose Yessayan Bazarbashian, a dedicated nurse and leader in the Armenian community, passed away at the age of 87.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Rose Yessayan Bazarbashian, a nurse and community leader, passed away on February 19 at the age of 87 in Wayne, Pennsylvania. Born in Aleppo, Syria in 1938, Rose pursued nursing education in Beirut and the United States, working as a nurse and nursing instructor for over 30 years. She was deeply involved in the Armenian community, serving as a leader in the Tekeyan Cultural Association's Philadelphia chapter and as a dedicated parishioner at St. Sahag and St. Mesrob Armenian Apostolic Church.

Why it matters

Rose Yessayan Bazarbashian's life and work exemplify the contributions of Armenian Americans to their communities. As a nurse, educator, and community leader, she dedicated herself to caring for others and preserving Armenian culture and heritage. Her passing is a loss for the Armenian community in Philadelphia and beyond.

The details

Rose Yessayan Bazarbashian had a distinguished nursing career, working in labor and delivery, as a nursing instructor at several hospitals, and later as a night supervisor at retirement communities. She continued her education, earning a Bachelor's and two Master's degrees in nursing. Even after retiring, she volunteered at her local Armenian church, running the Attic Treasures table at the annual Christmas Festival.

  • Rose Yessayan Bazarbashian was born on March 10, 1938 in Aleppo, Syria.
  • She emigrated to the United States in 1960.
  • She married her husband Antoine Bazarbashian in 1977, and they were married for 31 years until his passing.
  • Rose Yessayan Bazarbashian passed away on February 19, 2026 in Wayne, Pennsylvania.

The players

Rose Yessayan Bazarbashian

A nurse and community leader who was deeply involved in the Armenian community in Philadelphia.

Levon and Hayganoush Yessayan

Rose's parents, with whom she grew up in a close-knit family in Aleppo, Syria.

Liza, Garo, and Nazareth Yessayan

Rose's sister and brothers, with whom she had a close relationship.

Antoine Bazarbashian

Rose's husband of 31 years, with whom she built a life in the Philadelphia area.

Armen and Vicken Bazarbashian

Rose and Antoine's two sons, whom they raised in Paoli, Pennsylvania.

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The takeaway

Rose Yessayan Bazarbashian's life was marked by her dedication to nursing, her commitment to the Armenian community, and her deep love for her family. Her passing is a loss for all those whose lives she touched through her compassionate care and tireless service.