Marija (Rrufa) Papas

Marija (Rrufa) Papas
1938 – 2025

Marija (Rrufa) Papas, age 87, beloved wife of the late Ligor Papas, died Thursday, October 2, 2025, at UMASS Memorial Health Care, Worcester.

Marija was born in Durres, Albania, daughter of the late Vasil and Efterpi (Papakostandini) Rrufa and lived in Albania most of her life before coming to the United States to live approximately 15 years ago. Her father was a successful contractor and owner of a lumberyard and hardware supply store.  Her mother was a devoted housewife of three children.  Marija remembers devoting themselves to helping others and has many stories about it. 

She suffered under communism in Albania and suffered hardship as enemies of the state. 

An ardent Orthodox Christian, however, she never complained about anyone, forgiving even those who persecuted her family, befriending those and providing for them as best she could, being as generous as her father and mother had been.  Even those most hard of heart could do nothing but love her as she advocated for them and loved them dearly.

During this hard time, even with her status, Marija became an Elementary School Teacher. She married a strong, loving, grace-filled hardworking contractor, Ligor Papas, who also was a victim of state repression.  They loved each other dearly and had two children, Evis and Shirli.

She enjoyed embroidery, singing and listening to music, reading and spending time with her family and grandchildren.

Marija is survived by her daughters, Evis Jordanoglou and her husband Anestis, Shirli Papas; her grandson, Harrison Jordanoglou and her granddaughter, Maria Jordanoglou and many nephews and nieces in Albania.  She was predeceased by her brother, Athanas Rrufa and by her sister, Anina Papalilo.

Family, friends and anyone else who’d like to attend are invited to visit with Marija’s family on Saturday, October 4, 2025, from 9:00 am to 10:00 am in Saints Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church, 37 Lake Parkway, Webster.  Marija’s funeral service will be held at 10:00 am with burial to follow in Mount Zion Cemetery, Webster.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Saints Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church, 37 Lake Parkway, Webster 01570.  Shaw-Majercik Funeral Home & Cremations, 48 School Street, Webster, has been entrusted with arrangements.  A memorial guest book is available at www.shaw-majercik.com.

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