Gladys Patricia Arikian

Gladys Arikian, a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and cherished friend, passed away at the age of 95 on February 1, 2025. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 54 years, Dr. Edward James Arikian, her brother Edward Bell, and her great-granddaughter Kenzie Correa.

Gladys leaves behind her children: Edward James Arikian Jr., Karen Arikian (Thilo Eckoldt), Robert Arikian (Ann Craft), Michael Arikian (Terri Arikian), and Claudia Arikian Traa (James F. Traa II). She is also survived by her grandchildren: Johannes Russman, Beth Mallia, Shane Arikian, Courtney Arikian, Ben Arikian, Evan Arikian, Dara Mendez, Allie Arikian, James Ross Traa II, Kendall Sebo, and Brenna Traa, as well as 12 great-grandchildren.

A proud graduate of Long Island College Hospital School of Nursing, Gladys was always at the top of her class and went on to have a rewarding career as a Registered Nurse. It was during her work that she met and married Dr. Edward James Arikian, her "favorite MD" and the love of her life. Her career was paused as she embraced the joys of motherhood, welcoming five children. Even during those busy years, she continued to support her husband’s medical practice and managed to balance family life with grace and devotion.

Gladys’ passions were many. She was an amazing chef and cooked for her family every day. While family was always at the center of her world, she also found joy in reading, following the stock market, traveling, golfing, boating, fishing, gardening, and solving crossword puzzles. These quiet hobbies brought her a sense of peace and fulfillment throughout her life.

A devout Catholic, Gladys rarely missed Sunday Mass, and prayer was an integral part of her life. Even in her later years, when her memory began to fade, she could still recite her prayers clearly, often sharing them with family during their visits. Her faith was her foundation, and she was a source of comfort and strength to all who knew her, always offering prayers for others in times of need. Even in her final days, when asked how she was feeling, she would smile and say, “I have no complaints.”

Gladys will forever be remembered for her unwavering faith, boundless love, and graceful presence. We know she is at peace and likely dancing with Ed "Cheek to Cheek" to “Fly Me to the Moon,” serenaded by Frank Sinatra and Tony Bennett. We take comfort in knowing she is with the Lord, surrounded by the love and joy she so freely gave to others during her life.

A special thank you is extended to Embrace Hospice, Cornerstone Assisted Living, and Roxy and Marcel Temure, and Nalle Mar for their loving care and support.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to The Chromosome 18 Registry (chromosome18.org) or a favorite charity in Gladys’s name.

A Memorial Mass will be held at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Babylon, NY on Friday, April 4, 2025 , at 10:30 AM.