Marjorie W. (Sabbag) Haddad

Marjorie “Marjie” (Sabbag) Haddad, age 92, of Arlington, passed away on February 24, 2023 surrounded by her loving family. Beloved wife for 67 years of the late Alfred J. Haddad. Devoted mother of Bruce Haddad and Ronald “Ron” Haddad of Arlington, Steven Haddad and his wife Martha of Carlisle, Cynthia Haddad and her husband Mark of Belmont, and the late Philip Haddad. Dear grandmother “Taita” of Matthew, Philip, Anthony, Lydia, and Marjorie. She was born and raised in Somerville, MA as the youngest child of the late Rose (Dahood) and Rizkella “Russell” Sabbag and was predeceased by seven siblings; Alice Salhaney (Michael), Linda Abbott (Fred), Albert (Helen), George (Mary), Nicholas (Helen), Arthur Evelyn), James (Barbara). She is also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

Born during the Great Depression as one of the last of the Greatest Generation, she was a graduate of Somerville High School. She worked at the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston and soon joined the United States Naval Reserves for 4 years to help serve her country. After raising five children, she later worked at WR Grace & Company in their International Accounts Department until her retirement.

For decades, Marjie was a pioneering parent in the early days for The Arc of Greater Boston, who’s name at the time was The Association for Retarded Children. Her advocating efforts helped to pass the Massachusetts Public Law, Chapter 766 to guarantee the rights of all children with disabilities to a public education. This law continues to support all children with special needs throughout the country today.

She tirelessly advocated for awareness and rights of children with developmental disabilities. You could always find Marjie coordinating a fundraiser, a garage sale, penny sale, or a social event to raise awareness. Always supporting the best of a child’s abilities, she was sure to plan something for the kids; be it chairing dances, dinners and holiday parties, coordinating bowling teams, cheering on at Special Olympics competitions and even creating the first Boy Scout Troop for kids with special needs in Arlington. This was at a time when people with disabilities were often institutionalized or deemed to be “un-educable.” Marjie never accepted that option, and throughout her life, was able to see the success of her efforts all around her.

A lifelong member of The Church of St. John of Damascus, she served on many committees over the years. Marjie was a proud member of the Nicholas G. Beram Veterans Ladies Auxiliary, serving as the Treasurer for over 10 years. She chaired the picnics, luncheons, parties and coordinated the Scholastic Achievement Awards Banquet for many years.

Her passion was always to help others - but mostly with her cooking of her family’s favorite Syrian foods - knowing exactly who likes what, she was known as the “best cook in all 52 states”. Her family and friends could always find their favorite dish at “Auntie Marjie’s.” Her friendships were truly valued stemming from elementary school, high school, and throughout her life. From her “Club” girlfriends getting out for a night (OFANs) every Tuesday evening, to her more recent dates with the “Ladies who Lunch” she always found time for fun with the girls. Even at age 92 she continued to make new friends wherever she went.

Always with a positive attitude, she was quick to lend an ear, reach out to someone in need, leave you laughing and was sure to share her words of wisdom. Her legacy of always helping others and making a day brighter will live on in those who loved her.

Marjie’s Funeral Service was held on Wednesday, March 1, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. at The Church of St. John of Damascus 300 West St. DEDHAM. Visiting Hours were held in the Church on Tuesday, February 28, 2023.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Marjie’s memory may be made to the Church or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital 262 Danny Thomas Pl. Memphis, TN 38105.

Marjie was laid to rest with her beloved Al at Fairview Cemetery in Hyde Park.

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