South Kingstown, Rhode Island – Bahij Ibrahim Boutros, a well-respected restaurateur and beloved family man, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, September 28, 2024, at the age of 57.
Surrounded by his family, Bahij lost his long battle with a terminal illness.
Born in Al-Hasakah, Syria, and raised in Beirut, Lebanon, Bahij moved to the United States at the age of sixteen, fulfilling his dreams of a better life.
He later founded the successful International Pockets Cafe and Bajas Restaurants, with locations across Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Connecticut.
Bahij’s entrepreneurial spirit and passion for food shaped his legacy as a successful businessman.
He is survived by his wife, Andrea Mota Boutros, his daughter, Christabell Boutros, and his siblings Bassam, Rima, Elias, Carla, and Christin, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
His funeral Mass will be held on Friday, October 4, 2024, at St. George Maronite Catholic Church in Cranston, Rhode Island.
Friends and family will gather to honor his memory during visiting hours on Thursday at Nardolillo Funeral Home & Crematory.
Mikel Alves, a friend, expressed his grief on social media, writing, "A very sad week for me today, a good friend of mine has gone on. May you rest in peace David."
Others, such as Steven Gillikin, reflected on his passing, noting, "Way too young."
Bahij Ibrahim Boutros will be remembered for his generosity, kindness, and unwavering dedication to his family and community.