Born in Washington DC on June 7, 1949, she grew up in Richmond, VA and graduated from J.R. Tucker High School. As an adult she lived both in Northern Virginia and Richmond. She had many “friends for life” in both areas.
Being from a musical family, there was always a piano, doumbeg (drum), and tambourine around the house. Peruz had music in her soul from a very young age. Even though much of her “9-5” career was as an administrative assistant, she loved playing Middle Eastern music and was a skilled & spirited keyboard player and singer. Starting from her early 20’s she performed with many talented musicians and bands in the Richmond and Northern Virginia areas. She performed on several albums and was known for her beautiful voice that she inherited from her devoted mother. She followed in her mother’s footsteps by singing in and directing the St. James Armenian Church choir in Richmond, VA for a period of time.
Peruz was also a gifted artist and had a creative flare that she inherited from her beloved father. She excelled in art and created many beautiful paintings throughout her life as well as craft pieces and making beautiful flower arrangements for a florist.
She was passionate, lived life to the fullest and had an infectious laugh and radiant smile that would light up any room. And she never said no to bling and loved anything that shined, glittered and sparkled.
Her family, friends and church were her cornerstone of life. She was deeply loved by many and will be greatly missed. She was preceded in death by her parents, Der Boghos and Elizabeth Araxie Manoukian, and her brother Haig Manoukian. She is survived by her sisters Mariam Nishanian and Lucia Manoukian, her niece Alineh Templin and nephew Tagvor Nishanian & Shelby Nishanian (spouse), niece Julia Nishanian, nephews William and Samuel Nishanian, Michele Manoukian (sister-in-law), and many cousins.
A prayer service will be held on January 4, 2026 at 11:00 AM at St. Mary Armenian Church, 4125 Fessenden St NW, Washington, DC 20016, A Celebration of Life will be held in Richmond, VA, date to be determined.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made to:
St. James Armenian Church, 834 Pepper Avenue, Richmond, VA 21226 (804-282-3818)
or St. Mary Armenian Church, 4125 Fessenden St. NW, Washington, DC 20016 (202-363-1923).
