Antonious N. Antonious

Deacon Antonious, also known as “Pason” Antonious was a revered figure whose presence combined heavenly grace with earthly kindness. Known for his gentle spirit and profound love, he exemplified a life of purity and devotion. He often reflected that a man's greatest treasure is the love of those around him, a sentiment he embodied fully. 

Born in Tanta, Egypt, on February 13, 1938, Deacon Antonious was the eldest of six siblings, including his brothers Nashaat, Fakhry, Nader, and Robert, and his sister Olivia. In his youth, he excelled in swimming, wrestling, basketball, and dancing, earning numerous accolades. Though he was deeply pious, he also embraced sports and culture with enthusiasm.  

Deacon Antonious pursued agricultural engineering at the College of Agriculture in Alexandria, then he completed his mandatory service in the Egyptian military. During this period, his love blossomed with his wife for 62 years, they got married in July, 1962. They settled in Cairo, where he worked for the Department of Agriculture in El Doqie, Cairo until their immigration to the United States in 1986. Their family grew with the birth of their daughter Amal in 1963 and son Amgad in 1971. He instituted and nurtured his children’s faith in the Coptic Orthodox through daily Bible readings, Synaxarium and hymns; with Amal becoming a Sunday School teacher and choir member, and Amgad being ordained a deacon at age 10. 

Deacon Antonious's dedication to the church was evident throughout his life. He served as a deacon, preacher, and Sunday School teacher, influencing communities across Egypt, New York, Texas, Florida, and Maryland. His service spanned notable churches: St. George in Hamamat El kobah , Cairo, for 24 years, St. Mary & St. Antonious in Queens, NY for 21 years, St. Philopateer in Dallas, TX for 7 years, and St. Mary & St. Mina in Clearwater, FL for 6 years. After the passing of his daughter Amal in 2020, he and Nour moved to Severn, MD, to be near their son Amgad, his wife Venice, and their grandchildren Rachel, Sarah, and Elijah. For the last four years, Deacon Antonious served at St. Mary & St. Athanasius in Linthicum Heights, MD. 

Deacon Antonious's journey of faith and service spanned 86 years, marked by enduring illness in his final years until his peaceful passing on August 14, 2024. His life remains a testament to unwavering faith, love, and dedication. May his legacy continue to inspire and bless all who knew him. Amen.