John Spiro Demian

John Spiro Demian (October 6, 1926 – October 28, 2023)

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of John Spiro Demian, who departed from this world on October 28, 2023, at the age of 97. His life is a testament to resilience, love, and unwavering devotion to family.

John lived a rich life, filled with profound meaning and cherished moments. An exceptionally cultured, intellectual, and emotionally brilliant man, he was always eager to share his wealth of knowledge with the world, and often revered as a human encyclopedia. A former diplomat, journalist, linguist and educator, John graduated from University of Damascus top of his class, earning a PhD on scholarship from University of Paris, La Sorbonne, where he later became a Professor of Educational Psychology, Theology, Philosophy, and the Arabic language. John also held lecture series at American University of Beirut, with former Presidents and high-ranking military officials in attendance. His work with the United Nations, the World Bank and International Monetary Fund, as well as his articles penned while Editor-in-Chief of Lisan Al-Hal, a Lebanese newspaper, and his family lectures, which they will miss tremendously, are just a glimpse into John’s legacy.

A beloved husband, father, brother, grandfather, uncle, relative and friend, John’s legacy of love, strength, and family values will be cherished for generations to come. He is survived by his devoted wife of 68 years, Tatiana Demian, who shared a lifetime of love and countless memories with him. Their enduring partnership was a source of inspiration for all who knew them.

In addition to his loving wife, John leaves behind a beautiful family: his four daughters, Layla, Mona, Nada, and Lina, who were the pride and joy of his life, and his dear sister Hind. His guidance, wisdom, and unwavering support have shaped them into remarkable individuals, a reflection of his character and values.

John was a doting grandfather to six grandchildren: Sandra, Natalia, Michael, Vanessa, Christopher, and Tamara. He was a constant presence in their lives, offering guidance, love, and encouragement as they pursued their dreams and aspirations. Always a loving brother to his dearly departed brother Elias, dearly departed sisters Khatoun and Layla, and his dearly departed nephew Samir Kassir. John remained a loving uncle to Sleiman Kassir, Walid Kassir, Ziad Demian, Marie Demian, and Spiro Demian until his final moments.

John’s legacy of love extends to his cherished son-in-laws: Gary Gray, Ken Susskind and Bassel Haidar, who were not only family by marriage but by heart. Often expressing their “thanks for the girls”, their bonds of respect and affection with John enriched the family’s close-knit relationships.

John’s life was marked by his passion for family, his dedication to his loved ones, and his ability to find joy in the simplest of moments. He will be remembered for his warm smile, his profound wisdom, kindness, and the light and love that he shared with all who had the privilege of knowing him.

His memory will forever live on in the hearts of those he leaves behind, a testament to a life well-lived and a love that endures beyond the boundaries of time. Though he has departed from this world, his spirit and legacy will continue to inspire and guide his family and friends for generations to come. John will be profoundly missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. May his soul rest in eternal peace and light.

Visitation will be held at Saints Peter & Paul Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church, 10620 River Rd, Potomac, MD on Saturday, November 4 from 10:00am until the time of funeral services at 11:00am with a reception to follow. Interment will be at National Memorial Park at 2:00pm. For those unable to join in person the service will be livestreamed via the link https://www.youtube.com/@saintspeterpaulantiochiano984

Donations in his memory be made to St. Peter and Paul Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church either by mailing a check or through the church’s secure online donation portal (https://www.peterpaulpotomac.org/donate.html) (Choose “Health & Memorials”).