Nabila was born in Nazareth on August 26, 1931, and the eldest of 5 siblings . She studied at Schmidt’s Girls College in Jerusalem. She emigrated with her family to Lebanon, where she met the love of her life, Farid Hawwa. They got married on July 11, 1954 and had 5 children.
First and foremost, Nabila was dedicated to her family and treasured her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and embraced every moment with them. She especially loved her role as Teta (grandma). She was very personable, and her smile and presence brightened the lives of everyone she met.
Along with her husband, they started their own business selling children’s clothing, then opened a successful fabric store. In 1985, she emigrated with her family to the United States and settled in Jacksonville, Florida where she was an integral part in the success of the Peterson’s Five & Dime Stores in San Marco and Five Points. In her spare time, she enjoyed sewing, knitting, and cooking. She was a sincere Christian, a member of St. George Antiochian Orthodox Church, and a Dame Commander in the Order of St. Ignatius of Antioch.
Nabila was preceded in death by her parents, 2 siblings, and her husband, Farid Hawwa, of 67 years. She is survived by her children Hikmat Saoud (Edmond), Tawfik Hawwa (Olga), Rafik Hawwa (Lina), Chafic Hawa (Gidah), and Rana Choubah (Halim), and her 10 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren.
Visitation with family and friends will be held on Tuesday, October 12, 2021 at 10:00 followed by a celebration of life and funeral service at 11:00 AM at St. George Antiochian Orthodox Church, with the Very Reverend Father Kamal Al-Rahil officiating. Nabila will be laid to rest at the Hardage-Giddens Oaklawn Cemetery, 4801 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, Florida 32207. Memorial donations may be made to St. George Antiochian Orthodox Church, 6300 Bowden Road, Jacksonville, Florida 32216.
Note: Due to Covid 19, facemasks covering nose & mouth are required to be worn, at all times, by all attendees during the services.
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