The late Ani Hovagimian (left) with the author, Arsine Aghazarian
BY ARSINE AGHAZARIAN
It is with profound sorrow that I mourn the passing of Ani Hovagimian, my beloved friend and former colleague, whose life was a beautiful symphony of service, compassion, and dedication. For 46 years, she devoted her life to St. Mary’s Richard Tufenkian Preschool and Kindergarten as its beloved music teacher.
Oriort Ani, as she was affectionately known, passed away over the weekend after a brave battle with cancer.
Some educators leave memories. A rare few leave a legacy that continues to be heard for generations.
Oriort Ani was one of those extraordinary individuals. She was far more than a music teacher. She was a gifted composer, lyricist, mentor, and visionary who devoted 46 years to inspiring her students while enriching our community with hundreds of original songs, lyrics, and musical works. Her music gave voice to our traditions, celebrated our Armenian heritage, and became woven into the lives of countless families.
It is difficult to find the right words to express my sadness at losing someone who meant so much to so many people. I feel incredibly fortunate to have known Ani and to have had the privilege of working alongside her for 30 years. Through her music, she inspired her students, colleagues, and all who knew her to cherish our Armenian heritage and culture as deeply as she did.
Throughout my years in education, I have met many passionate educators, but I have never encountered anyone whose dedication matched hers. She was the true embodiment of commitment, perseverance, and selfless service.
Until the very last moments of her life, she remained steadfast in her mission, determined to create an unforgettable end-of-the-year “Hantes,” a masterpiece that was nothing short of a Broadway production. That unwavering passion for excellence defined who she was.
Although her passing leaves an immeasurable void, her legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of her students, colleagues, families, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. Her songs will continue to be sung, her lessons remembered, and her love for Armenian culture passed on from one generation to the next.
I would like to extend my deepest condolences and heartfelt sympathy to her beloved family, including her brother, Gary Demirjian; her daughters, Mary Hovagimian and her fiancée, Razmik; and Lori Hovagimian.
I also would like to extend my sincere condolences to the Tufenkian School administration, teachers, staff, students, and families, who have lost an irreplaceable member of their community.
May her memory be eternal, and may her remarkable legacy continue to inspire generations to come.
Arsine Aghazarian, a veteran educator, served as the Director of the St. Mary’s Richard Tufenkian Pre-School and Kindergarten for more than three decades.
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