Margaret Stepanian

formerly of Richter Street, Providence, Rhode Island, passed away on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, on the morning after her 86th birthday, surrounded by much love.

Margaret was the devoted and adored daughter of the late Harry D. and Baidzar “Clara” (Harootunian) Stepanian, who were both survivors of the Armenian Genocide of 1915. Margaret was predeceased by all of her adored brothers, the late Stephen “Hompo” (Mary), Eugene, Levon “Leo” (Ruth), and the beloved Djivan and Stepan, who were lost far too young.

Until her retirement in 2008, Margaret served for 45 years as the Assistant Court Secretary at the Rhode Island Family Court, and the Rhode Island juvenile probation department, previously. Throughout her career, she formed wonderful and lasting relationships with judges and coworkers, many of which continued throughout her entire life.

Margaret was a devoted daughter of the Armenian Heritage and Armenian Cause. The Armenian Church, and the preservation of the history and traditions entrusted to her were always at the forefront of her heart and mind. Throughout her life, she gave generously of her time, knowledge, and energy to her Church and numerous Armenian organizations, offering invaluable insight, historical perspective, steadfast passion, with a beautiful command of the Armenian language.

A lifelong communicant of Sts. Vartanantz Armenian Apostolic Church, which she loved immensely, Margaret began singing in the church choir at ten years old and continued singing in the choir throughout her life. Margaret was a member and Chairwoman of the Sts. Vartanantz Church Board of Trustees. She was also a member of the Sts. Vartanantz Ladies’ Guild, serving on its Executive Board. She was a delegate to the National Representative Assembly, and served on countless other committees.

Margaret served on the Regional and Central Executives of the Armenian Relief Society (ARS) and was a member of the Providence ARS “Arax” Chapter. She was also a member of the Providence “Kristapor” Chapter of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF). Margaret also served on both the Central Executive and local Executive Boards of the Armenian Youth Federation (AYF-YOARF). She was a member of the Armenian Historical Association of Rhode Island and was the first chairperson of the Providence Hamazkayin.

An Honorary Member of the Providence AYF, Margaret was bestowed the title of AYF Olympic Queen in 2003. A dedicated athlete in her younger years, Margaret is listed as one of the highest-scoring female participants in AYF Olympics history.

Margaret loved the camaraderie that came with all things Armenian. Above all, she cherished her family and her many dear friends and loved ones of all generations.

Margaret was the loving and cherished aunt of Steven (Stephanie) Stepanian, James Stepanian, Robert (Lori) Stepanian, Patti Jaffarian, Scott (Coralie) Stepanian, Kimberly (Patrick) French, Bonnie Stepanian and Russell (Dorothy) Stepanian. She was also predeceased by her nephews, the late Steven Stepanian and the late Douglas Stepanian (Jan). Margaret was also the sister-in-law of the late Eileen Stepanian. She also leaves many adored great-nieces and great-nephews.

Margaret’s loved ones extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Tockwotton on the Waterfront for the care, kindness, and affection they provided her throughout the years she made her home there.

Visiting hours are Thursday morning October 1st, from 9:30 am-11:00 am at Sts Vartanantz Armenian Apostolic Church, 402 Broadway, Providence, with a funeral service starting at 11:00 am. Margaret will then be laid to rest with her parents at North Burial Ground, Providence.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: The Mourad Armenian School of Sts. Vartanantz Armenian Apostolic Church, 7 Armenia Street, Providence, RI 02909, honoring Margaret’s devotion to her Armenian heritage and helping pass it on to future generations.