Dr. Joseph Zayat MD

Dr. Joseph Zayat, M.D., age 71, died peacefully in his sleep on Sunday October 29, 2023. He was born March 4, 1952 in Damascus, Syria to the late Dr. Salim and Andree Zayat (nee Dawson). After studying at Damascus Medical School, he came to Cleveland, Ohio to find work in the field of neurology. A doctor through and through, he was beloved by his patients and respected by his peers. From his many years in private practice to his last few years at the Cleveland Clinic, he was the ideal of what a neurologist should be. Always knowledgeable, and willing to spend extra time with his patients, he was proud to boast a near perfect score in his satisfaction ratings. He spent many hours working late at the hospital, and when home, he would often retire to his office to read medical journals.

Joe was a brilliant man, with an insatiable thirst for knowledge. Fluent in three languages, he could often be seen reading Daphne Du Maurier in original French or watching Arabic news. He also developed a love for piano later in life, learning to play at a time when many would be happy to rest on their laurels. A cosmopolitan man, he loved to travel the world with his wife, with a particular affinity for France and Italy.

Joe is survived by his wife of 16 years, Saousan; his children from his first marriage, Salim and Omar; and from his second marriage, Ailee, Sammy, and Rami; and his grandchildren, Colin (13), Arlowe (10), Drake (8), Maya (7), Piper (4), Mikey (4), Maya Shea (2), and Julius (1). He is also survived by his mother and by his former wife, Afaf.

The family will receive friends at The DiDicco and Sons Funeral Home 5975 Mayfield Rd. Mayfield Hts., OH Wednesday November 1 from 6 to 8 pm.