Elizabeth Bassmajian, fondly known as Elo, age 77 of Watertown, MA passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 15, 2026. She is survived by her beloved husband, Hagop Bassmajian, her three devoted children Hrach Bassmajian, Betty Dimitian and her husband Shant and Shant Bassmajian and his wife Angela. She was blessed with three grandsons, Shant, Jack and Alexander, whom she adored. She also leaves behind an extended family.
Elizabeth was born in Beirut, Lebanon to Harutyun and Elmast Setian. She was predeceased by her three beloved brothers Anto, Vahan and Varouj. Her time in Lebanon was filled with love and happiness. She shared a deep bond with her family and friends. She cherished those memories—they shaped her into the woman we all love.
In the 1970’s, when the Lebanese civil war intensified, Elizabeth and her family relocated to Watertown, where they opened Arax Market. Longing for the flavors of her homeland, she began introducing these recipes to her new community, which became her second family. For over fifty years she worked alongside her husband Hagop and three children, whom carry on her dream.
In her private life, Elizabeth truly loved the role of Matriarch, quietly opening her home and table to countless nieces, nephews along with many friends of her children over the years. The Bassmajian home was filled with visitors stopping by for a coffee, heartfelt conversation and always laughter. The number of family and friends who found comfort in her presence was evident in those who gathered each week at her home for Family Funday Sunday.
Elizabeth’s impact on her family and community is one that will be remembered for generations to come.
A funeral service will be held on Friday February 20, 2026 at 11 am at St. Stephen’s Armenian Apostolic Church , 38 Elton Avenue, Watertown with interment to follow at Ridgelawn Cemetery, Watertown. In lieu of flowers, donations to Saint Stephen’s Armenian Church.