Arek Jean Baptiste Djigounian

It is with deep sorrow and much love that we mourn the passing of Arek John Baptiste Djigounian, who departed this life on April 1, 2025, at the age of 53, in Fort Eustis, VA. Arek was born in Egypt on January 8, 1972, to Jean-Baptiste Djigounian and the late Alice Zatarian Djigounian, and was the beloved husband of Pamela Gamble Djigounian. Throughout his journey, he touched the lives of everyone around him with his warmth, humor, and unwavering devotion. A proud patriot, Arek served his country honorably in the United States Navy. Following his military service, he continued his career as an Air Traffic Controller, where his sharp intellect and quick wit were greatly appreciated. Known for his clever sense of humor and good-natured smart aleck remarks, Arek never failed to bring a smile to those around him. Arek's greatest joy was found in his role as a devoted husband, father, and friend. His beloved wife, Pamela, says he is the best thing that ever happened to her, and they were incredibly blessed to share their lives together. Arek found solace and happiness in nature, especially at the beach, on Ocracoke Island, or out fishing. He was a member of the Masonic community, where he formed bonds that lasted a lifetime.
In addition to his wife, Arek will be deeply missed by his son, Matthew Christopher Djigounian; his father, Jean-Baptiste Djigounian, and stepmother, Hasmig;and his cherished mother-in-law, Pauline Gamble. He was brother-in-law to Geoffrey Gamble (Anthony Gamble-Gomez), Ronald Gamble, and Laura Cope; uncle to four nieces and two nephews who adored him dearly; and his beloved fur babies, Elvis, Abby, Casper, and especially, Miss Patty-Cakes. Arek will forever be remembered by his many special friends, who will hold dear memories of his infectious laughter and the warmth of his amazing hugs. He was preceded in death by his mother, Alice Zatarian Djigounian.
A funeral service to honor Arek's life will be held on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, at 2:00 p.m., at Twiford Memorial Chapel. The family will greet friends one hour prior to and immediately following the service. Arek's service will be live streamed on his obituary page at www.TwifordFH.com. Arek's light shone brightly in this world, and his legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Wounded Warrior Project, 4899 Belfort Road, Suite 300, Jacksonville, FL 32256 (https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/donate); Triangle Beagle Rescue of NC, 13200 Strickland Road, Ste 114-287, Raleigh, NC 27613 (https://www.tribeagles.org/contribute/) or your local SPCA, reflecting his love for both his country and animals.
Twiford Funeral Homes, 405 E. Church Street, Elizabeth City, NC, is serving the Djigounian Family. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.TwifordFH.com. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Arek, please visit our floral store.