Arax Charkoudian

Arax Charkoudian passed away peacefully on January 9, 2025, in Springfield, MA. Born on August 26, 1928, in Springfield to the late Nishan and Azniv (Sanjian) Charkoudian, Arax lived a life defined by passion, service, and tribute to her Armenian-American heritage.

Arax was deeply independent and adventurous at a time when choices were limited for women. With a master’s in education, Arax initially taught history all over the Northeast US, and taught English in Izmir, Turkey on a Fulbright scholarship. She later owned a greenhouse on the Connecticut River, growing chrysanthemums under half an acre of glass, and selling flowers all over New England.

Arax was a force for good, she served her community with dedication and steadfastness. As board chair of St. Gregory Armenian Apostolic Church, her leadership and organizational skills left a lasting impact. She contributed significantly to Springfield’s downtown neighborhood and led historic walking tours for the Springfield Museums. As a young adult Arax was an active member of Springfield's Sports Car Club driving zippy European cars like the Morris Minor, and later was active with the Smiths Ferry Women’s Club, and Springfield's Metro Center Association.

Arax is predeceased by her parents and her sisters, Arppie Charkoudian and Kenar Charkoudian. She is survived by her brother Levon Charkoudian of Newton, MA; her niece Karoun Charkoudian of Springfield, MA; her nephew Deron Charkoudian and wife Meghan of New York, NY; her niece Lorig Charkoudian of Takoma Park, MD; her niece Nisha Simmons and husband John of Newton, MA; and many beloved grandnieces and grandnephews.

Visitation will be held on Friday, January 17, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Ratell Funeral Home, 200 Main Street, Indian Orchard. A funeral service will be held at 12:00 noon on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at St. Gregory Armenian Apostolic Church, 135 Goodwin Street, Indian Orchard. Following the service all are welcome to join the luncheon at the church. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Gregory Armenian Apostolic Church at https://saintgregoryarmenianchurch.org/donate-today .