Ayda Jazrawi

Born on October 21, 1944, in Baghdad, Iraq, Ayda was the cherished daughter of Rami and Evelyn Francis. She graduated from the University of Baghdad at the top of her class. She found her soulmate in Adnan Jazrawi, whom she married on September 5, 1966, after a chance encounter at a small gathering that sparked an instant connection. Together, they raised their two beloved children, Zaid and Zeena, in Baghdad before embarking on a new chapter in Kassel, Germany, in 1976, ultimately making their home in Chicago, Illinois, in 1979.

Ayda possessed an extraordinary talent for cooking, a gift she cherished deeply. Through her cooking, she expressed her love and warmth to all who entered her home, ensuring that no one ever left her home hungry. Her passion for the kitchen was a legacy she eagerly shared with her son and daughter, instilling in them the same love for cooking. With a treasure trove of recipes stored in her mind, she was always prepared to share her culinary wisdom with anyone who sought it.

In her journey to the United States, she left behind much of her family, a decision that left her with a deep yearning to reconnect with them. Her love for travel blossomed, and she treasured every opportunity to visit her cherished ones across the globe. Known for her warmth and acceptance, she had a unique ability to make everyone feel like the center of her universe. She lived by the principle that silence is preferable to unkind words, and throughout her life, she maintained a remarkable ability to speak kindly of others. With an elegance and grace that was truly inspiring, she carried herself with a dignity that touched the hearts of all who knew her.

Ayda's devotion to her children and grandchildren was immeasurable, and the time spent with them was her greatest joy. She was a true angel on earth, drawing strength from her unwavering faith in God. Her absence will be profoundly felt by all who were fortunate enough to know her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Rami and Evelyn Francis, her sister, Nahida (Elias) Khanimey, her brothers Sabah Francis, and Adil (Nawal) Francis.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 58 years, Adnan Jazrawi; her children, Zaid Jazrawi and Zeena (Chris) Melody; her grandchildren, Jonah Melody and Charles “CJ” Jazrawi; her brother, Shoki (Giesla) Francis; her sisters-in-law, and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral Mass will be Tuesday, December 10, 2024, at 11 a.m. at Mart Mariam Chaldean Catholic Church, 2700 Willow Rd, Northbrook, IL 60062.

Burial will follow at St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Cemetery in Palatine.

Memorials in Ayda’s name can be made to:

Mayo Clinic Make a gift online- see below

Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation Make a gift online- see below

Flowers may be ordered from Lofendo Flowers (630) 675-1400 or www.lofendoflowers.com