Tom Yazgi

Tom Yazgi, born June 17, 1927 in Zaidal, Homs, Syria departed this world on August 5, 2021. He was pre-deceased by his loving wife, Nora Joseph Yazgi, his amazing daughters, Sylvia Yazgi and Mary Ann Yazgi, his parents Abdo Yazgi and Futha Barakat Yazgi, his brother Joudat Yazgi and sister-in-law Tamam Yazgi, and his brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Louis Joseph and Yulet Joseph.

As his health failed, he wanted only to be surrounded by his five surviving children, Rogih Yazgi, Abdo Yazgi (Linda), Sammy Yazgi, George Yazgi (Susan) and Tonia Yazgi (Pat Andreu). He loved being Gidu to his grandchildren, Stephanie Yazgi, Estephan Yazgi, Harry Yazgi and Nora Yazgi- and was always so proud of them. He was also survived by many nieces and nephews, cousins and friends.

Tom was raised in Syria and lived there until he married Nora and moved to the United States in 1949. He worked hard as a grocer, supporting his family, and was active in the Arabic community. He was a lector in the Arabic Catholic Church, was president of the Salaam Club, and frequently helped people coming from Zaidal to establish themselves as productive members of the community. He was an extraordinarily generous man, often giving to others even when he did not have much for himself or his family. From the time that he came to the United States, he did what he could to support the poor people of his native village, and exemplified his love of family by building the Manzul in Zaidal, a place for Yazgi family gatherings and celebrations. He loved to write, to sing and to dance, and his words were often poetic and meaningful. He was highly revered and respected. Tom, Abba, Gidu, Abu Rogih was greatly loved and will be missed by many. His legacy will continue for years to come.

Visitation will be at Our Lady of Peace Syriac Catholic Church, 5854 University Blvd. W., Jacksonville, Florida 32216, on Monday, August 9th at 5:30 p.m., with praying of the Rosary to follow at 6:00 p.m., and Condolences thereafter. The funeral service will take place on Tuesday, August 10, also at our Lady of Peace Syriac Catholic Church at 11:00 a.m., with interment following at Oaklawn Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made for the poor of Zaidal through Father Talat Yazgi at our Lady of Peace Syriac Catholic Church.