Harry Papazian Jr., of Hendersonville, NC passed to Heaven on February 17, 2021 at the age of 94.
He was born to immigrant Armenian parents, Harry and Ywniga Papazian on May 24, 1926 in the Bronx, NY but lived most of his life along with his brothers and sisters in Cornwall-On-Hudson, NY.
Harry joined the United States Navy in 1944 just days after his 18th birthday and served during World War II in the Asian Pacific. His big smile and great sense of humor were known to brighten the days of his fellow sailors.
When he returned in 1946, he started a home heating oil delivery business called ‘Papazian Oil.’ People used to remark ‘You look so much like Tony Bennett, are you related?’ Always quick with a funny response, Harry would joke “Sure, he’s my brother. He became a singer and I became an Oil Man!”
In 1977, he married Kaye Jane Boley, a schoolteacher from nearby Washingtonville, NY. They lived in Cornwall-On-Hudson, NY until retiring to Hendersonville in 1997.
Harry is survived by his wife Kaye, her sisters Anne and Betty B, members of the Trinity Presbyterian Church and his many nieces, nephews and loving family members who will miss his funny T-shirts, his campy jokes and his big beautiful laugh.
A private memorial service will be held. Memorial contributions may be made to Trinity Presbyterian Church, 900 Blythe St. Hendersonville, NC 28791.
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Gary M Gaffney posted on 3/13/21
I am so, so sorry to hear of Harry passing. As a small boy, has I was passing his Garage he always stop and made time to talk to me. He away smiled and made the day cheerful.