Violette Salloum Soudah

Violette Soudah passed away on January 4th, 2026, Falls Church, Virginia, at the age of 94. Violette was born in Haifa, Palestine in 1931, the daughter of Hanna and Yvonne Salloum (née Asfour). Separated from her family by conflict early in life, she eventually met her husband-to-be, Issa, (passed in 2003), while vacationing in Cyprus. They married there and produced three children. Although unable to cook when first married, she learned quickly, and a place at her dinner table was soon sought after. She enjoyed a rich social life in a cosmopolitan environment, often entertaining at her home and participating in various social and cultural functions. She learned to play Bridge, which remained a strong passion for the rest of her life. Her analytical mind allowed her to excel at the game, and while mostly a social player, she enjoyed success in some tournaments. While in Cyprus, she and her family were temporarily relocated to the UK in order to escape political strife. She gave birth to her fourth child while there before returning to Cyprus a few years later. When war struck Cyprus, the family lost their home and possessions and relocated to Beirut, Lebanon, before having to move again a year later due to a civil war. She eventually returned to the UK and created a new home where she continued raising her four children and established a new life after the upheaval of Cyprus and Lebanon. After her husband’s retirement, they moved to the United States and started a new chapter in their lives. There, she once again established a new home and active social life with both new and old friends. Violette was exceptionally intelligent, with a sharp, analytical mind that guided her through life. She had remarkable instincts which gave her insight into the character and mindset of others. She was a gregarious, witty and generous person, always putting others ahead of herself, her family in particular. Despite having lost some vision later on in life, she showed tremendous resilience and determination, maintaining a positive outlook as she had throughout her life. She was a devout Catholic, with a special devotion to the Virgin Mary that reinforced her great strength. That strength was the foundation for her family throughout their lives. She loved people, and she loved life. She will be missed by the many people whose lives she touched. She is survived by her brother, four children and three grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to: https://www.doctorswithoutborders.org/get-involved/ways-to-give OR https://www.unrwausa.org/ OR https://www.unrwausa.org/

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Violette Salloum Soudah

March 4, 1931 - January 4, 2026