Emeline (Ayoub) Bitar

Emeline (Ayoub) Bitar, 87, of Worcester, fell asleep in the Lord, Wednesday, December 27, 2017, with her children gathered at her bedside, rejoining in heaven, her husband Wahid who passed away in September of 2015.  Emeline was born, June 1st 1930 in Akar, Lebanon, one of nine children of Abraham and Badia (Housney) Ayoub,   Raised in Akar, Emeline married her love Wahid.   Emeline and Wahid raised their seven children in Lebanon, as their children grew, married and immigrated to the U.S.  Emeline and Wahid remained in Lebanon until Wahid retired.  They then reunited with their children and grandchildren in the U.S. in 1987, and have lived here ever since.   Emeline is survived by her seven children, Antoinette Bitar, Antoine Bitar and his wife Ghada, Marie Rawady and her husband Pierre, Pierre Bitar and his wife Lori, Elizabeth Nassar and her husband Dr. Sami Nassar, Joseph Bitar and his wife Christine and Milad Bitar; She is also survived by a brother, Emile Ayoub in Jacksonville, FL; 18 grandchildren; Many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends both in the U.S. and in Lebanon who also mourn her loss.    Family members that have fallen asleep in the lord before her include, four brothers, Elias, Rageb, Jalil, and Miguel, and sisters, Jamille, Sarah and Jalily.  Emeline was a devoted woman, who believes strongly in her orthodox faith, attended church when able, watching Mass or listening to prayers for long periods of time.  She cherished her family, raising her children, through life’s challenges and proudly welcoming into the world her 18 grandchildren who loving referred to her as “Sitto”.   Spending the holidays, and special occasions or just being with her family, cooking or teaching her family Syrian/Lebanese delicacies.  She will be missed greatly by all who knew her.  She was a member of St George Orthodox Cathedral. Relatives and friends are invited to calling hours, Wednesday, January 3rd 2018, from 5 pm to 7 pm and again on Thursday, January 4th from 10 to 10:45 am in St George Orthodox Cathedral, 30 Anna Street.  Her funeral service will be celebrated by Reverend Milad Selim on Thursday, January 4th at 11:00 am Burial will follow in Hope Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers memorial remembrances in her name can be made to St George Orthodox Cathedral, 30 Anna St. Worcester, Ma 01604.   The MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St is honored to assist the family with arrangements.