Maurice Sayegh
Maurice Stephan Sayegh, a devoted family man, accomplished engineer, and world traveler, passed away peacefully in hospice care on July 27, 2025, at the age of 87, surrounded by loved ones. He lived a life devoted to family, education, and quiet resilience. Born in June of 1938, in Mosul, Iraq, Maurice grew up in a close-knit Catholic family, the fourth of six siblings. His early years in Mosul instilled values of perseverance and education, which guided him through a life of remarkable achievement and global adventure.
In 1951, at age 13, Maurice’s family relocated to Baghdad, where he thrived in a more vibrant urban environment, excelling at a top public high school. After earning an engineering degree from the University of Baghdad, he served three years in the Iraqi military’s Corps of Engineers before pursuing a master’s degree at the University of Missouri-Rolla where he immersed himself in American culture while forging lifelong friendships.
Maurice’s professional journey focused primarily in the Middle East. As co-owner of a geotechnical engineering firm, he worked on infrastructure projects in Iraq, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia, that supported the region’s oil boom. His expertise in soil dynamics contributed to major developments, including Aramco fields and industrial cities. After a career of over 40 years, he retired in 2011.
In 1968, Maurice married Claire Bou Lahoud, whom he met at a Christian club in Baghdad. Together, they welcomed three children in Beirut, Lebanon and raised their family in the Middle East, Europe, and the United States. The family moved to the United States in 1988, settling in Maryland for their children’s education at institutions including Lycee Rochambeau, Georgetown Prep, American University, and Princeton. Maurice and Claire enjoyed traveling to Europe, Asia, and across the U.S., creating cherished memories with their children and grandchildren.
Maurice will be remembered for his humility, intelligence, and unwavering dedication to family. A man of quiet wisdom, Maurice navigated historical upheavals—Iraq’s coups, Lebanon’s instability, and Saudi Arabia’s rapid growth—with grace. He leaves behind a multigenerational legacy rooted in integrity, kindness, and a commitment to a better future through learning and connection. Maurice is survived by his beloved wife Claire, his three children Nadine Cipriani, Sandra Delistathis, and Mark Sayegh, and five grandchildren Alexander and Andrew Delistathis, Anthony Cipriani, and Liam and Maya Sayegh. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Our Lady of Mercy Church in Potomac, MD by going to https://membership.faithdirect.net/MD37 .
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on August 1, 2025 at 10:30 AM at Our Lady of Mercy in Potomac, MD.