Beatrice (Brandt) Barsoum

Beatrice L. (Brandt) Barsoum, 88, of Washington DC, passed away December 6, 2022 in Melrose, MA. 

Born in Oakland, California on July 3, 1934, Beatrice was the daughter of Gustav and Lydia (Hofstetter) Brandt. She moved to Washington, D.C. to join the foreign service as administrative support and met Elias S. Barsoum, of Worcester, MA.  They were married in 1958 and settled in Falls Church, Virginia. Together they raised four children; Christine, Elisa, Eve and Peter.   Beatrice’s desire to see the world was finally answered in 1976 when the family was assigned to Cairo, Egypt.  She had deep respect and appreciation for many cultures and enjoyed learning throughout her life.  

Beatrice had an uncommon grace and kindness about her.  She enjoyed the arts, classical music, and expressed herself through her home decorating and cooking.  She instilled this love in her kids and grandkids.  She played scrabble competitively.  

Following recent health complications, Beatrice moved to Melrose, MA.  She is survived by her daughters Christine Brophy of Melrose, MA.  Eve Barsoum of Washington D.C.   Peter E. Barsoum on assignment in Cario, Egypt.  Four grandchildren; Caroline Brophy, Ian Brophy, Marco Losada, Carla Losada.  Her brother, Richard Brandt of Florida and sister, Rosemary Sanders of California, and extended family members.

A period of respects will be held Wednesday, December 14, 2022, from 10:00 am to 11:00 pm in St Mary’s Syriac Orthodox Church, 1 Industrial Drive, Shrewsbury, MA.  Funeral service at 11:00 will follow in the church.  Burial will be in Hope Cemetery.   In lieu of flowers memorial remembrances in her name can be made to Smile Train Association, 633 3rd Ave, 9th Floor, NY, NY or www.smiletrain.org to help children with cleft palates.   The MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St Worcester is honored to assist the family with arrangements.