Theodore Jabara Sr.
It has been said that which we once deeply loved can never be lost, for all that we love deeply becomes a seamless part of us. The life and passion of Theodore Jabara lives on because he was loved.
Theodore Jabara Sr., 90, of Boca Raton, died Sunday, February 16 while visiting with friends and enjoying the warm Florida sunshine. Life was good for Theodore “Ted” Jabara.
He was born to the late Richard and Baheeya Jabara, June 9, 1923 in Brooklyn, New York. Ted graduated from Poly Prep Country Day School and Colgate University in New York.
He married Elaine Massabini Jabara 69 years ago and they began their life together in Brooklyn, NY. At a young age he joined the United States Army serving in Fort Riley, Kansas. Once out of the military he joined forces with his father and the Jabara Brothers business, supplying linen to hotels in New York City, Atlantic City and Miami.
He fell in love with the hotel business and the act of creating great guest service. One particular property, the Holiday Inn in Durham, North Carolina particularly interested him. He joined a partnership with Monroe Seifer and his hospitality career began. He then met Arthur Meyer and the three of them formed the world-famous Servico, building to 60+ hotels before selling it.
Ted Jabara dedicated his life to the business of hospitality — creating memorable hotel experiences for guests and associates alike. He was a phenomenal people person, never missing an opportunity to engage in conversation and positively touch another life. His body aged over the years but his mind was forever sharp and his passion for the hospitality business grew stronger with each passing year.
Theodore Jabara Sr. is survived by his beloved wife, Elaine Jabara; his daughter and son-in-law, Janet and Dan Walsh; his son Ted, Jr.; his son and daughter-in-law, Richard Jabara II and Lori Fusco-Jabara. Eight grandchildren will carry on his legacy, Kaitlin Walsh, Danny Walsh, Kristen Jabara, Danielle Jabara, Cassandra Jabara, Ted Jabara III, Justin Jabara and George Jabara.
Theodore Jabara Sr. was a man of faith, highly involved in the Orthodox Church.
The wake was held Thursday, February 20, at Barrett Funeral Home and Mass, Friday, February 21 at Saint Anthony’s Orthodox Church in Bergenfield, NJ. The family encourages donations to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
“Ted Jabara was a positive and beautiful spirit. The world is a better place because he lived. May his memory be eternal.” Richard Jabara