Arthur A. Derderian Jr.

Arthur Ardash Derderian, Jr, 82 of Methuen, MA, died peacefully on July 7, 2025. Born on November 26, 1942, in Norwalk, CT, Arthur was the son of the late Mary (Tatian) and Arthur Derderian. He grew up in Richmond, Virginia where he gained precious childhood memories of his grandparents and family, many of whom survived the Armenian Genocide.
Arthur's family moved north, and he attended schools in both Lawrence and Methuen, MA where he graduated high school. Arthur joined the United States Airforce, completing basic training in Texas and then stationed in Puerto Rico during the Cuban Missile Crisis, Turkey and California. After an honorable discharge, Arthur went to work for Honeywell in 1964 where he remained for many years, working his way up from a manufacturing job to a lead position. Arthur often worked at least two jobs, maintaining a lawn service business in addition to his career. In 2003 Arthur started a position at Lawrence General Hospital in the purchasing department where he worked for 22 years.
Arthur was a proud first-generation Armenian, deeply connected to his heritage and faith. His culture and history were not only a source of personal pride but also a guiding influence throughout his life. Arthur was a devoted member of Holy Archangels Armenian Church in Haverhill, MA where he served as a member of the Parish Council for several years.
Arthur had many interests throughout his life including cycling, running, history, New England sports, reading and physical fitness. Of all his interests, one stands out. To know Arthur is to know his love for Seinfeld. The "show about nothing" brought him immense joy, laughter and the connection of friendship over the past two decades.
Throughout his life, even in the face of hardship, Arthur was not one to complain. He carried himself with quiet strength and gratitude, choosing to focus on what he had rather than what he lacked. Whether facing health issues or life's everyday challenges, he kept perspective, offering patience and a sense of humor that uplifted those around him.
Arthur is predeceased by his loving wife Maryalice (Peters) Derderian. He is survived by his three devoted daughters Rebecca Daniels and spouse Jon of Windham, NH, Alexis Freitas and spouse Matthew of Seekonk, MA and Farrah Derderian Katsaris and spouse George of Haverhill, MA; Grandchildren Alyssa, Audra, Isabelle, Zoe, Elijah and Niko; brother Armen and spouse Cinda of Methuen, MA; Several Sisters and brothers-in law, nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family and close friends. Arthur is also survived by his dear Aunt Lucy Sirmaian of Seabrook, NH with whom he grew up alongside and remained close throughout his entire life.
Affectionately known as Art, Junie, D, Artie, Artie D, Uncle D, D Man, Uncle Arthur, Mr. D, Grandpy, Granddaddy, Uncle Granddaddy and of course Dad; His family and friends will miss him deeply but will keep his memory close. His family would like to extend their immense gratitude to: the dedicated staff of Dana Farber who cared for Arthur over the past 30 years; Tufts Hospice who ensured Arthur's comfort over the past two months; his caring work family at Lawrence General Hospital for their ongoing compassion and outreach; and his sister-in-law and brother-in-law Carol & George Merrow for always being one phone call away.
Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend calling hours on Thursday July 10, 2025, from 4-7pm at Holy Archangels Armenian Church, St. Michael & St. Gabriel at 1280 Boston Road, Haverhill, MA 01835. A funeral service will be held at 10am on Friday, July 11, 2025 also at Holy Archangels Armenian Church.
Memorial donations may be made in Arthur's name to Holy Archangels Armenian Church, St. Michael & St. Gabriel, 1280 Boston Road, Haverhill, MA 01835.
www.hyepointearmenianchurch.org/make-a-donation-67erc