Georges Chemali

Known as a loving and protective father, Georges Chemali, 68, passed away at Rex Hospital in Raleigh, NC, after a difficult illness. He was surrounded by his family as he transitioned to eternal life.

A native of southern Lebanon, Georges was raised primarily by his grandparents and assisted in the care of his own siblings. In 1979, he married Laure Najm and immigrated to the United States where they began their family in Los Angeles before the family eventually relocated to Carteret County, North Carolina. Georges was a hard worker, owning several businesses during his life, and learned a variety of skills and knowledge that he was able to pass on to his children. Georges’s oldest son, Michael, said that his father taught him a plethora of skills throughout his life.

Described by his children as playful, Georges loved having fun with his children and grandchildren even as his health declined. He will be remembered for his generosity, his protective nature, and his infectious smile. His daughter, Zena, used the word “charismatic” to describe Georges, while his youngest son, Joseph, remembered special moments spent between just the two of them. Georges may have spent his final weeks in the hospital, aided by his wife, but he continued to try to comfort and care for his family despite his illness.

Georges was predeceased by his parents Mekhail and Souad Raad Chemali, his sister Denize Chemali Hbayka, and his brothers in law George Francis and Lutfalla Al Oujail. He is survived by his wife, Laure; children Michael (Nora), Zena, and Joseph (Kristina); siblings Toni (Marcelle), Bchara (Mona), Claire Francis, Fayrouz El Khoury (Farid), Katia Al Ooujail, and Fadi (Jowel); and his six grandchildren: Yousef, Alejandro, Gabriella, Nicholas, Adeline, and Noah.

A viewing will be held Thursday, November 30 at Saint Sharbel Church, 600 Mt. Vernon Church Rd, Raleigh, NC 27614, with a funeral mass to follow. A Mercy Meal will be provided in the church hall after the service. The burial ceremony will be at 2 p.m. at Montlawn Cemetery, 2911 S. Wilmington St., Raleigh, NC 27603.