Simon Javizian

Simon Javizian passed away just a month shy of his 92nd birthday, on November 23, 2025 in Boca Raton, Florida. He was born in Detroit on December 28, 1933 to his parents, Barkev and Pergrouhi (Pearl) Javizian who immigrated from Armenia to Detroit. From a young age, he was interested in music and he received his first clarinet from his Uncle Paul at 6-years old. Later in life, Paul brought Simon up on stage to perform with him in his band. Simon graduated from Cass Tech High School where he was active in the symphonic & marching bands and worked his first job developing film at Berman’s Drug Store. He went on to graduate from Wayne State University, receiving a degree in Mortuary Science.

Simon met his late wife Alice Javizian at a dance that his band played at. They married the following year (1955) and had two children – Lynn and Semon. Simon was a devoted husband and loving father, grandfather, sibling, and friend. Family always came first and caretaking was not only foundational to his work but core to his character. He would drop anything to be there for the people he loved, and even those he hardly knew. Simon was selfless, hard-working, generous, and kind-hearted, qualities that made him an extraordinary Funeral Director with his own practice, Simon Javizian Funeral Directors, for almost 70 years. Families and community members always found comfort in Simon during difficult times, and he cherished those relationships for as long as he lived.

Beyond his professional life, Simon had an equally colorful and busy personal life with several hobbies and passions. He was an incredible musician and entertaining performer across a multitude of instruments including clarinet, piano, saxophone, trumpet, dumbags, vocals, and more. During his time at Cass Tech, he played in Detroit’s annually televised Thanksgiving Day Parade, a joy to watch for his family on the holiday. Simon also started the influential Armenian folk band Ardziv and toured many cities around the Midwest, shaping the sound of the genre for decades to come. He also loved getting dressed up and attending symphonies and operas with friends.

Simon was a celebrated member of the Knights of Vartan for over 65 years, reaching a level accomplished by very few as Grand Commander. Simon’s contributions to the Asbed community were endless and felt around the world. He was a life-long member of St. John Armenian Church and humbly served in various positions across charity, philanthropy, arts and science, education and cultural heritage.

Anyone who knew Simon will remember him for his captivating stories. He was a vibrant orator who could spin an average story into a thrill-seeking adventure. He leaves behind a legacy of laughter, love and appreciation of life to its very fullest.

Beloved husband of the late Alice E. Javizian. Dearest father of Lynn A. (William) Ring and Semon B. (Suzan) Javizian. Loving grandfather of Kelsi L. Ring, Alexander S. Javizian, Dylan P. Ring. Cherished brother of Garry (Patti) Javizian, and the late John Javizian, Helen Javizian, and Margaret Zadikian, as well as many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Visiting will take place at St. John Armenian Church in Southfield, Michigan on Sunday, November 30th from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM with prayer service at 7:00 PM, followed by the funeral service on Monday, December 1st at 11:00 AM. Entombment will take place at Boca Raton Mausoleum.

Memorial donations may be sent to St. John Armenian Church, St. Sarkis Armenian Apostolic Church, Knights of Vartan, Hundred Hyes or the charity of your choice.

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