In Memorium-Jorge Gazebayukian

Jorge Gazebayukian was born on February 16, 1941, in São Paulo, Brazil, to Zaruy and Luder Gazebayukian. His parents, Armenian immigrants who arrived in 1922, found refuge and hospitality in São Paulo after surviving the atrocities of the Armenian Genocide, and chose to make the city their home.

From an early age, Jorge lived a simple life shaped by a deep desire to serve the Lord above all else—a commitment rooted in the faith and example of his parents. As a youth, he became actively involved in the life of the Central Armenian Evangelical Church of São Paulo. By the age of 16, he was already serving as a youth leader, and at 18, he was elected President of the Armenian Evangelical Youth.

Gifted with a beautiful voice, Jorge frequently participated as a soloist in church services and commemorative events. Whether singing hymns of praise or Armenian songs, he enriched countless gatherings within the Armenian community. His musical talents led him to perform throughout the interior of São Paulo, as well as in Uruguay and Buenos Aires, Argentina. He also had the honor of singing in a choir conducted by the renowned Armenian composer and conductor Aram Khatchaturian.

Respected and beloved within the community, Jorge was entrusted with several leadership roles. He served as President of the 1st Armenian Cup of Brazil and later as President of the Marachá Recreational and Cultural Association. Throughout his life, he contributed faithfully to numerous boards and committees dedicated to religious, musical, and cultural life, with particular devotion to the annual commemorations of April 24th.

His lifelong dedication to the Church was evident in his many years of service on the Administrative Board of the Central Armenian Evangelical Church of São Paulo. He was later ordained as an elder and served for many years as Director of the Church’s Executive Council. From 1973 to 1980, he also served as a close advisor to the late Rev. Dr. Moses B. Janbazian during his pastoral ministry.

In 1980, when Rev. Moses was appointed Field Director of the AMAA, Jorge, together with his wife, attended several AMAA anniversary celebrations in the United States as representatives of their church.

In his professional life, Jorge began humbly as a Sales Promoter at the age of 25. Through perseverance and dedication, he rose to the position of National Director in several national and multinational companies. He retired at the age of 64, remembered by colleagues and friends alike for his joyful and warm spirit.

One of the greatest joys of his life was visiting Armenia in 2014—a deeply meaningful experience that connected him to his heritage and roots.

For as long as his health permitted, Jorge remained actively involved in church services and the Armenian community of São Paulo. It was a source of deep sorrow for him when he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, which gradually limited his ability to participate in the activities he so dearly loved.

Jorge was married to Marlene Gaidzakian Gazebayukian for 62 years. Together, they raised two daughters: Grace, an endodontist, married to Rev. Roy Abrahamian, pastor of the Central Armenian Evangelical Church of São Paulo; and Gladys, married to Luciano Thomaz da Silva, both working as travel agents in the tourism industry. He was also the proud grandfather of Gabriela and André.

Jorge passed away on April 26, 2026, at the age of 85. His funeral service was held at the Central Armenian Evangelical Church of São Paulo, the community he faithfully served throughout his life.

As the Word of God reminds us, “he fought the good fight, finished the race, and kept the faith.” We trust that he has received the crown of righteousness prepared by the Lord (II Timothy 4:7–8).

On behalf of AEUNA we thank God for the life, ministry and testimony of our dear Brother Jorge Gazebayukian and express our heartfelt condolences to his wife, children and their families as well as to the church members.