NEW ROCHELLE, NY — Dr. Joseph Soury, a longtime resident of New Rochelle, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on Wednesday, September 28, 2016. He was 85 years old. Joe was born in New Jersey to the late Julia and Aaron Soury and grew up in the Bronx, NY. He served in the US Army during the Korean War. After returning from the Army, Joe met the love of his life, Miriam (Perahia) and they were married in 1956. They were together for 60 years. For 37 years, Dr. Soury was dedicated to the children of Rye, NY., first as a teacher at Milton School and then 31 years as Principal of Midland School. In 1987, Joe received the National Distinguished Principal Award from the Department of Education, representing NY at a ceremony in Washington, DC. He truly loved his work and could often be found in a crazy costume for Halloween or the school parade, playing his clarinet with the school band, taking lunch time power walks with teachers, or just simply making the students smile. He retired in 2000.
Joe was a true humanitarian. His dedication and service to so many causes including his school, The Rye Rotary Club, Rye Youth Council, his synagogue, his community, and his family will forever be unmatched. He will be sorely missed by so many.
Joe was predeceased by just 27 days by his loving wife Miriam who passed away on September 1, 2016 . He is survived by his sister Diana, children Aaron (Kathy), Julie (Milton), and Elly (David), and grandchildren Jeff, Amy, Michael, and Amanda. He was also predeceased by his grandson Jason in 2004.