Betty (Chakarian) Dostourian

WEST BOYLSTON-Betty (Chakarian) Dostourian, 86, died peacefully in her home, surrounded by her loving family on January 25, 2026. Betty was the daughter of Krikor Chakarian, who came to the US, having escaped the Armenian Genocide of 1915 and Arousiag (Mouradkanian) Chakarian. Betty is predeceased by her older sister Dorothy Asadoorian, brother Jerry Chakarian and a sister Sylvia and brother Joseph who transitioned at a very young age. She leaves behind her husband of 65 years, Harry Dostourian, and daughters Anna Marta Dostourian; Rose Marie Gervais and her husband Stephen and grandson Phillip of West Boylston, MA; and Jaclyn Betty Dostourian, of Falmouth, MA. She also leaves behind her nephew Michael Asadoorian and niece Melanie Mercurio.

Born on June 12, 1939 and raised in Worcester, MA, Betty grew up in the Belmont Street area surrounded by extended family. She graduated from Commerce High School and soon after worked at the Norton Company. Betty was a member of the Armenian Church of our Saviour, where she met and married her beloved husband Harry in 1961.

Worcester was always home to her, even as her adventurous spirit carried her far beyond it. Betty had so much love for everyone and a natural gift for bringing people together. Early in life, she took time away from her career to devote herself fully to raising her three daughters, a role she cherished deeply. During those years, Betty could often be found at her sewing machine, turning fabric into art, making beautiful floral draperies and stylish outfits.

Once her family was grown, she returned to work doing what she loved most, organizing trips and creating memorable experiences for others. What began as coordinating travel soon grew into a true vocation. Betty co-managed a bus company and eventually became a licensed Junket Representative, working tirelessly to plan and lead monthly trips to Atlantic City and Foxwoods; trips to New York City to see the Rockettes; and excursions to Las Vegas, an annual favorite. Her bus trips were legendary, filled with movies, refreshments, and bingo, building excitement long before arriving at the casino. She had a special talent for turning every trip into a celebration.

Known for her vibrant energy and fun-loving spirit, Betty and her husband were wonderful hosts who loved entertaining. Their home was filled with laughter, especially during the holidays, when family and friends gathered often. Betty loved to travel with her family, making annual trips to their condo in South Palm Beach, FL, adventuring across the US, and traveling to Europe and Hawaii. She had a special place in her heart for their trips to Armenia and Israel. Betty loved celebrating her heritage, filling her house with the sounds of Armenian music and the flavors of Armenian food.

Above all else, family was the center of Betty’s life. Her warmth, generosity, and lively personality left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her. Betty will be lovingly remembered and deeply missed by her adoring family.

Family and friends are welcomed to a celebration of her life with visiting hours Thursday, February 5th from 5:00pm until 7:00pm at Callahan, Fay & Caswell Life Celebration Home, 61 Myrtle Street, Worcester.A funeral service will be held Friday, February 6th at 11:00am at the Armenian Church of Our Saviour, 87 Salisbury St, Worcester.  Burial will follow in Hope Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Armenian Church of Our Saviour or to the Daughters of Vartan, of which Betty was a member for 46 years.