Chockey Kassem Obituary

Chockey Richard Kassem

February 9, 2025

RALEIGH, NC - Chockey Richard Kassem, age 86, passed away peacefully at home on February 9, 2025, in Raleigh, NC. He was born in Kingsport, TN, on October 21, 1938, to Richard and Nagla Kassem. Chockey was beloved by all who knew him, and his legacy will live on through the many lives he touched throughout his career and personal life.

Chockey's journey began in Kingsport, where he graduated from Dobyns-Bennett High School in 1956. As president of his senior class and member of the football team, he demonstrated leadership, determination, and love for the game. His athletic talents and strong character led him to join the United States Army Reserve, where he proudly served his country. After his time in Reserves, Chockey received a football scholarship to the University of Southwestern Louisiana in Lafayette.

At the University of Southwestern Louisiana, Chockey excelled in football while earning both an undergraduate and master's degree in education. His passion for teaching and coaching was evident from the start. Following graduation, he began his coaching career at the high school level. His drive and dedication to his players continued when he returned to his alma mater, Southwestern Louisiana, as an assistant college football coach and head of recruitment. His commitment to mentoring and shaping young athletes left a lasting impression on all those who had the privilege of working with him.

In the mid-70's, Chockey made a career change and opened a men's clothing store, Threads, Inc., in Lafayette, LA. The business flourished, expanding to Lake Charles and New Orleans. In 1985, a move to Raleigh, NC, led him to open Chockey's, and upscale men's clothing store that earned recognition from Esquire magazine as one of the Top 100 men's clothing stores in the U.S.

Chockey's second illustrious career in the retail apparel industry culminated in his retirement in 2012. He was a unique individual, leaving a lasting impression on all he met, whether a long time friend or brief acquaintance. Upon meeting Chockey, you would feel as though you had known him for years, and those fortunate to call him a friend will always cherish his memory. A smile was always present on his face, and his warmth was evident to everyone around him.

His love of sports was only surpassed by his love for his family and friends. Chockey's devotion to his family remained a cornerstone of his life, and his influence as a coach, mentor, and friend will never be forgotten. He will be deeply missed by all that knew him.

Chockey was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Nagla Kassem; brother, Bob Kassem; sisters, Samita Carter and Amita Clark; granddaughter, Jade Kassem; and his nephew, Mark Kassem.

He is survived by life partner, Karen Ross; son, Chad Kassem and wife, Lydia; granddaughter, Jasmine Kassem; brother, Sam Kassem and wife, Ann; sister-in-law, Ellie Kassem; and many nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends from 2:00 pm until 3:00 pm on Saturday, March 22, 2025, in the chapel of Oak Hill Funeral Home.

A Memorial Service will follow at 3:00 pm with Pastor Richard Isaacs officiating.

Inurnment will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital by visiting, www.stjude.org

To share memories and condolences with the family please visit www.oakhillfh.com

The care of Chockey Richard Kassem and his family has been entrusted to the staff of Oak Hill Funeral & Cremation Services.