Dr. Habib Guirguis

Habib was born on February 17, 1941 in Cairo, Egypt. He grew up in Cairo, not far from the pyramids, and after finishing college and medical school he emigrated to Canada and then the United States.

Leaving behind a large family and many friends, he is survived by his wife, Meredith L. Guirguis, and his seven children, Miriam Hall (Mark), Martha Leone (Mark), Audrey Kattwinkel (Frank), Amy Ng (Tommy), David Guirguis (Joanne), Christopher Guirguis, and Stephanie Guirguis. He is also survived by eleven grandchildren who love their “Gidu” and cherish his love and many deep conversations they had with him. They are: Joshua, Lydia, Josiah, Grace, Julia, Daniel, Anthony, Anna, Michael, Samuel, and Anna Joy. Habib is preceded in death by his dear sister and best friend, Ahlam Shenouda.

His family will always remember his desire to engage them in meaningful ways, pointing them to wisdom regarding what truly matters. Many remember him for his warm smile and ability to talk to anyone, making it evident that he cared for them.

After completing medical residencies in Egypt and Canada, Habib quickly passed the US medical licensing exam and then practiced medicine in southwest Virginia. He later served as an emergency room physician in Richmond. He would work in this role for seventeen and a half years, until retiring as chief of the emergency room department of Richmond Memorial Hospital in 1990. Stepping away from full-time employment due to health reasons, he went on to volunteer his medical training to friends and those who needed help.

Habib was a strong believer in Jesus, and he wanted to be remembered as a prodigal saved by God’s grace. His faith was in the unconditional love of Jesus Christ, which he shared with anyone who would listen. In his final years, he would say that our job is to live the hope we have.

Habib called the end of his life journey on earth his graduation day, because he was headed to a better place–his home in heaven. We will all miss him, but we know he is with his Savior and Redeemer, Jesus.

In lieu of flowers, you are welcome to donate to one of Habib's favorite ministries. Links can be found below.