Elizabeth Adjeleian (née Oulousian), 93, a beloved mother, sister, grandmother, aunt, and friend, passed away on October 23, 2026, surrounded by family. She was predeceased by her beloved husband, John, with whom she shared a life centered on family and community.
Born in Montreal on May 12, 1933, to Armenian parents, Elizabeth grew up with a love of learning, music, family, and subsequently graduated from McGill University with a degree in teaching. Having spent six years studying Latin, she developed a lifelong appreciation for languages and went on to speak Spanish fluently. Elizabeth later taught French in Ottawa, where she left a lasting impression on many of her students.
Music was always an important part of Elizabeth’s life. She studied the violin, and one of her proudest achievements was being accepted into the Montreal Junior Symphony. In honour of her love of music, the Elizabeth Adjeleian Music Scholarship was established in 2023 through the Atken Armenian Foundation to support young musicians in Armenia, ensuring that her passion for music will continue to inspire future generations.
Elizabeth married John Adjeleian in 1957, and together they settled in Ottawa, where they raised their four children: Hasmig, Michael, David, and Paul. She was a devoted mother and a cherished grandmother, as well as a consummate cook and baker. Known for the aromas and flavours that filled her kitchen, she baked countless loaves of choereg, a traditional Armenian bread, the “best” baklava, and her famous broccoli soup, which her grandchildren grew up loving.
Elizabeth and John were founding members of the Ottawa Armenian Community Association and strong supporters of the Armenian church. Her Armenian heritage and the community she helped build remained an important part of her life.
Affectionately known as GMA (Jee-MA), Elizabeth will be deeply missed by her four children; her brother, Aram Oulousian; her six grandchildren, Nicole, Adrienne, Rachel, Maxine, Raffi, and Jake; and her nieces, Natalie, Emily, and Sarah.
The family extends its heartfelt thanks to the staff and volunteers at Stirling Park Seniors Residence, for their compassionate care and dedication, which brought immense comfort and warmth during her final years.
Family and friends are invited to pay their respects during visitation at Beechwood Funeral, Cemetery and Cremation Services, 280 Beechwood Avenue, Ottawa, on Saturday, October 31, 2026, from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. Funeral services will follow at 1:00 p.m., with a reception afterward.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the Canadian Heart & Stroke Foundation of Canada or the Elizabeth Adjeleian Music Scholarship (administered by the Atken Armenian Foundation) would be welcome.
Elizabeth Adjeleian Music Scholarship: Donations can be made by e-transfer to: atkenarmenianfoundation@yahoo.com which is set up for direct deposit. Please indicate that your gift is in support of the Elizabeth Adjeleian Music Scholarship.
*Tax receipts will be issued for all donations. Please include your full name and home address.
Sign the digital guestbook