Issa Abed Kassis

Issa “Abu Abed” Kassis, a devoted father, beloved husband, and treasured member of his community, passed away peacefully on April 12, 2025. His life was marked by a deep love for his family, strong faith, and an enduring spirit of giving. Known for his quiet strength and generous heart, Issa lived with integrity and compassion, touching the lives of all who knew him.

He had a great sense of humor and was always ready with a joke and a smile. Charismatic and approachable, Issa never met a stranger—he made everyone feel like family. With a servant's heart and a storyteller’s gift, he was renowned for sharing the lively tales and rich history of his beloved Ramallah, Palestine.

For over 30 years, Issa successfully owned Isaac’s E. 8th Street Sandwich Shop, becoming a true neighborhood institution which earned him the affectionate nickname, “Isaac, Mayor of 8th Street.”

In retirement, Issa spent much of his time at the Ramallah American Club, surrounded by lifelong friends. He was a founding member of St. George Antiochian Orthodox Church who remained a steadfast pillar of his community.

Whether through his quick wit, his steady presence, or his talent for bringing people together, he left an indelible impact. A proud Boy Scout as a youth in Ramallah, he carried the values of service, loyalty, and adventure throughout his life. His stories were always filled with laughter and nostalgia. They will live on in the hearts of those he impacted.

Born on December 25, 1939, in Ramallah, Palestine, Issa spent 57 years married to the love of his life, Afaf. Together, they raised four daughters who were the pride and joy of his life, but his favorite title was being a Grandfather (Sedo). He was preceded in death by his parents, Abed and Azizeh Kassis, and sisters: Mudelelah Eways, Nimeh Kassis, Sara Shatara, Mariam ‘Offa’ Koury, Badia Hadawar, and Mary Ibrahim. He is survived by his wife Afaf; daughters Tina Kassis, Jackie Kassis, Jena (Greg) Higginbotham, and Shadya (Norman) Mufarreh; grandchildren Mia, Sammy, Julian, and Hunter; brother Yacoub Kassis; and many loving nieces and nephews.

The visitation will be held on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, from 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM at St. George Antiochian Orthodox Church, 6300 Bowden Road, Jacksonville, Florida 32216. The funeral service will begin at 11:00 AM, officiated by The Very Reverend Archpriest Fr. Kamal Al-Rahil.

Burial to follow, Issa will be laid to rest at Oaklawn Cemetery, 4801 San Jose Boulevard, Jacksonville, Florida 32207.