Vera Victoria Panosian

Vera is survived by her daughter Laura Panosian Sommerville (Thomas Sommerville), her son Brian Howard Panosian, and three grandchildren, Caitlin Victoria Sommerville, Lewis Kilby Sommerville and Grace Francis Panosian, as well as many other beloved family members and friends.

She is preceded in death by her husband Dr. Howard Ray Panosian, and her brother, Arthur G. Basmajian and sister Lillian B. Jamgochian.

Vera was born on Christmas Day, Dec. 25, 1927, in Philadelphia to Artin and Beatrice Basmajian. She attended Rosemont College and went on to earn a master’s degree from the University of Pennsylvania. Her Christmas birthday was always a source of joy, and together with her beloved husband, Howard, she delighted in hosting unforgettable gatherings. Vera had a remarkable gift for hospitality – she could easily cook dinner for 50 guests and turn around and do it again the next day. During the holidays, every visitor who came to the house left with one of her famous Brazil nut cakes, each treat a reflection of the warmth of her smile and the generosity of her spirit. With her kind and gracious nature, Vera had the ability to put others at ease and brought out the best in everyone.

Vera was a devoted member of the Bel Air Presbyterian Church for more than 50 years, where she served as an elder on the session, contributed to numerous committees and groups, and loved working with and supporting the choir. Her lifetime of faith as a devout Christian made her a bright light to everyone she touched. The family is secure in the knowledge that she is celebrating life with God in heaven now.

A passionate music lover and born educator, she taught and served as a music supervisor in the Philadelphia public schools for 10 years before moving to California in 1958 to marry Howard. She then spent many years volunteering with the Los Angeles Junior Philharmonic Committee, the Hollywood Bowl Volunteers and many other service organizations. An avid USC football fan, she attended many games with her family and more recently with Brian and his tailgate posse. Another passion was her love of gardening, especially raising Cymbidium orchids which cascaded over the entire patio.

Services will be private, and interment will be at Pierce Brothers Westwood Village Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions may be given to Bel Air Presbyterian Church, 16221 Mulholland Dr., Los Angeles, CA 90049.