Carmen Accashian
Carmen (Pilibosian) Accashian, born October 31, 1936, in Cuba, passed away on December 14, 2025, in Kennebunk, Maine. She later became a naturalized American citizen and was deeply proud of both her Armenian heritage and her life in the United States.
Carmen lived in Newtown for the majority of her adult life, where she raised her family and built lasting community ties. In her later years, she moved to Kennebunk, Maine, to be closer to her daughter and family.
Carmen was the daughter of Krikor and Enza Pilibosian. She lived a long life rooted in family, tradition, and a strong sense of identity, which she lovingly passed down through generations. She was devoted to her children and grandchildren and found great joy in the meaningful rhythms of everyday life.
While raising her family, Carmen developed a lifelong love of gardening. Her dedication and knowledge led her to become a Master Gardener, and she remained actively involved in her local Garden Club, serving as president and sharing her passion with others. Earlier in life, she also enjoyed playing tennis, a pastime that reflected her active and engaged spirit.
Carmen also enjoyed baking, cooking, reading, writing, and poetry, and she was especially proud to have her poetry published, a creative expression that reflected her thoughtful and expressive nature.
Carmen is survived by her children: Kenneth Accashian and his daughters Jamie and Katie; David Accashian and his wife Teri, and their daughters Melynda and Sadie; Bruce Accashian and his wife Suzanne, and their children Caryn, Kimberly, Lauren, John, and Catherine; and her daughter Arleen Medve and her husband Steve, and their son Sam; as well as her sisters, Mary and Bebe.
She is also survived by her grandchildren Caryn (spouse David), Kimberly (spouse Thomas), Lauren (spouse Nick), Catherine (spouse Ben), Jamie, Katie, Melynda, Sadie, Sam, and John, and her great-grandchildren Deacon, Brady, Alivia, Teague, Ellie, Caleb, Elijah, Elizabeth, Adeline, and Jaxon.
Carmen was preceded in death by her son Jay (John) Accashian; her parents, Krikor and Enza Pilibosian; and her sister Anne.
Her legacy lives on through the many lives she touched with her love, creativity, strength, and devotion to family.
Services will be announced at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association in her memory.
My darling,
You were the best GRANDmother a child could ask for. You created so many great memories & traditions that I have passed down to your Great grandchildren. You brought joy into every room you stepped into. Your laughter, singing, whistling and the signature Rockettes high kicks, is something I will always hold in my heart.
There was something about walking into your home and being greeted by your beautiful face. *kiss on each check* followed by HELLOOOOOO Darling! The classical music playing softly in the background and your love and comfort made your home, a safe space. Somewhere, where love knew no boundaries. It was so much more than a home.
I aim for the same in my home, and play the classic music 24/7, but it will never be the same. I pray I can be 1/4 of GRAND, you put in GRANDmother.
You were so resilient. You found the positive in every situation. I look up to you so much. I remember begging Mom and Dad for years to change my name to “Carmen”. They didn’t officially change my name, but eventually started calling me “Carmenita” as I am a little you. THE HONOR.
You were there for me, no matter the day or hour. You were always the one who would talk me through whatever hard situation I was going through. When my baby passed away, I refused to talk to anyone for 3 weeks. Except for you. You said to me “Better days are coming, babes. There’s always a rainbow after the storm”. Of course, you were right, because you are GRAND. I picture you in heaven dancing and laughing with him. Uncle Jay playing the money game with him. To know you are with your children again & with mine does bring me some joy.
Twas the night before Christmas & New Year’s Eve, will never be the same. Another tradition you created. A memory that will last forever. Not just with me, but for generations to come. It may not be the same, but we won’t let it die. It will live on, in your name.
To be your first GRANDchild was a blessing. I could write an entire book about you & all the amazing things about you. Even though we were robbed of time together & it makes me angry, I know I will see you again. This isn’t a goodbye, but a “see you later”.
Just like we ended every phone call.
Ciao, darling. I love you. MWAH MWAH!
Love your GRANDchild,
Kimberly aka Carmenita