Nelly Bazouzi Texler

Nelly Bazouzi Texler (86) passed away peacefully surrounded by family and friends on Monday, February 10, 2025.

 

Nelly was born in Katamon, Palestine, a suburb of Jerusalem. She had a happy childhood, but at the age of nine, she and her family were forced to leave their home and belongings during the Nakba. They never returned. Her parents, Shafiq Hanna Bazouzi and Nada Adranly Bazouzi were strong and resilient. With the help of their extended family, they rebuilt their lives in Bethlehem. Nelly worked as a teacher for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA). She enjoyed spending time with her family and friends; playing cards, going to parties, and travelling. Along with the rest of her family, she immigrated to the United States in the 1970’s and eventually settled in the Lakeside area of Richmond, VA. She got married and gave birth to a son, Kareem.

 

One of her most impressive qualities was her work ethic. She never retired; working up until two months before her death in the cafeteria at Hermitage High School. Despite her age, the work kept her youthful and her coworkers became a second family. She is best known for her cooking of Middle Eastern food, her expert craftmanship in needlework, her relentless motivation to work, and her selfless generosity.

 

She is survived by her son Kareem Texler (Emilia), grandsons Carson and Quinn, her sister Nina Bazouzi Cullers (Jack), her brother John Hanna Bazouzi (Linda), and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who adored her.

 

A memorial service and celebration of life will be held on Saturday, March 1, 2025 at 2:00 pm at Bethlehem Baptist Church (4210 Penick Rd, Henrico, VA 23228). All who knew Nelly are welcome to attend.

 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hermitage High School at www.tinyurl.com/DonationHermitageHS or Saint Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church at https://www.vagocathedral.org/.