Evelyn Diranian
On Monday, Evelyn Diranian, the matriarch of a prominent and highly respected Chelsea family and former proprietor of the Avenue Restaurant situated across from City Hall, passed away with her family at her side. She was 85 years old.
In 1951, Mrs. Diranian and her late husband, Andrew Diranian Sr., settled in Chelsea and purchased the storefront that housed Andy’s Bike Shop before it became the Avenue Restaurant.
The Avenue Restaurant grew into a cherished meeting place for the city’s most influential figures and leaders, including many who held positions in city government. Through their personable and hospitable demeanor, Mr. and Mrs. Diranian developed personal relationships with their patrons, and for numerous customers, breakfast at the Avenue became an essential part of their daily routine before heading to work.
Andy Jr., Mrs. Diranian’s son and one of Chelsea High School’s standout football players, worked alongside his parents at the restaurant. Like them, he possessed considerable cooking skills and relished the engaging conversations with the Avenue’s regulars. The family took great pride in Andy’s accomplishments in both Pop Warner and high school football.
Mrs. Diranian helped establish the Chelsea Pop Warner youth football and cheerleading organization. Her oldest daughter, Karen Pavlos, eventually became president of the organization, and her children—Jon, Jennifer, Andreana, and Nikolet Pavlos—all participated actively in Pop Warner.
Mrs. Diranian’s other children, daughter Ginny and son Chucky, inherited their mother’s vibrant personality and humor. Along with their siblings, both contributed meaningfully to their community and demonstrated kindness and generosity toward others.
Family gatherings held special meaning for Mrs. Diranian, and she cherished her role as grandmother to seven grandchildren: Jon, Jennifer, Andreana, Nikolet, Andrea, Alexa, and Andrew III. She was also a great-grandmother to four: Karina, Jeremy, Evan, and Ryan.
According to Andreana Pavlos, “fblikebutton_button” “She was a loving person,” “wp-caption alignright” she continued. “She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She loved being with her family. She loved traveling with my aunt, Ginny and every now and then pulling a lever on the slot machines at Foxwoods.”
Chelsea held a special place in Mrs. Diranian’s heart, and she maintained her residence in the family home on Washington Avenue. Over many years, she demonstrated remarkable courage in her battle with cancer. Those around her cherished her company and warm presence. The city mourns the passing of a remarkable individual whose generous spirit touched countless lives.
She is survived by daughter-in-law Nancy Diranian and son-in-law Kostas Pavlos.
Family and friends are invited to pay their respects Friday, Feb. 20, from 4 to 8 p.m., at Faggas Funeral Home, 551 Mount Auburn St., Watertown. A funeral service will take place Saturday, Feb. 21 at 11:30 a.m. at the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral, Parker Street, Boston. Interment will follow at Woodlawn Cemetery.