Irene Koutishian, 97, passed away on December 17, 2024. Irene was born on July 2, 1927 in Baghdad to parents Vartan and Maritza Lezginsev.

Irene spent much of her youth in Baghdad, Iraq, where she loved to dance. She then met her husband Eghia and moved to Tehran, Iran, after marriage. They then immigrated to Manhattan in 1957 with their firstborn son, Frederick, and then had two other children, Peter and Linda. Irene and Eghia then moved to Jackson, New Jersey, where they ran Lakewood Plaza Cleaners. Irene and Eghia eventually retired in Lacey Township.

Irene lived 97 full and vibrant years of life and even drove her own car until she was 93. She was a strong, fierce woman who loved with her whole heart. She will be deeply missed by her family and friends who adored her.

She is predeceased by her parents, Maritza and Vartan Lezginsev; her loving husband Eghia (Eli) Koutishian; and her children Peter Koutishian and Linda Carroll. She is survived by her son Frederick Koutishian and his wife Barbara Lechner; her grandchildren Lindsay, Joshua, Peter, Rachel, Hannah, and Sarah; and her great-grandchild Irenia, and another on the way.

A visitation will be offered at Manchester Memorial Funeral Home on Monday, December 23, 2024, from 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm. Burial will follow at Good Luck Cemetery in Lanoka Harbor, NJ.

Online condolences can be made at www.manchestermemorialfh.com.

Funeral arrangements were trusted to Manchester Memorial Funeral Home, 28 Schoolhouse Road Whiting, NJ 08759, (732) 350-1950.