Obituary: Randy (Rumzi) Kaoud

Randy (Rumzi) Kaoud, 85, of Woodbridge died on May 6, 2023.  Born in Ramallah, Palestine on February 19, 1938, a son of the late Khalil and Azizeh Kaoud.  Survived by his son James (Kristina) Kaoud of Woodbridge; grandchildren Randy James “R.J.”, Jillian, and Joseph “Joey” Kaoud; brother Abe (Aida) Kaoud of Woodbridge; sister Wedad Elfar of San Jose, CA; as well as sisters-in-law Jackie Kaoud of Woodbridge, and Rachel Kaoud of Milford.  In addition to his parents, Randy was preceded in death by his beloved wife of over 54 years, Salwa Misleh Kaoud; as well as brothers Sam Kaywood of Woodbridge, Fred Kaoud of Woodbridge, and Wadi “Willy” Kaoud of Milford.  

Randy attended the Friends Boys School in Ramallah, Palestine where he excelled as Captain of the soccer team. After three years of service in the armed forces, he met and married the love of his life, Salwa, and immigrated to the United States. Along with his brothers Fred and Abe, Randy established the family business, Kaoud Rugs, which would become a household name in carpet and rugs in the state for 68 years. Randy possessed an absolute entrepreneurial mindset, whether in retail or residential and commercial real estate development, his keen attention to detail, standard of excellence, and steadfast commitment to detail perpetuated his reputation and success.  Always readily equipped with a story to tell or a life lesson to share, his knowledge and advice remained well received by both his contemporaries and those he mentored.  Randy believed in civil service and giving back to one’s community, as illustrated by his involvement in the business community and Chamber of Commerce of Orange, serving as a Burgess of Woodmont, as well as past Police Commissioner for the Town of Woodbridge, where he resided for over 46 years.  Upon spending several winters in Florida with his wife Salwa, Randy took up the game of golf in later years while enjoying his membership of the Racebrook Country Club.  Other interests included his home, yard, and surrounding gardens.  His greatest love, however, was that of his family.  Randy was proud of each member, adored spending time with them, and was especially excited by his cherished grandchildren.  

The Kaoud family would like to extend sincere appreciation for Maria Kosciuszek and her family, for taking care of him and his family for over 35 years. 

Arrangements were entrusted to West Haven Funeral Home at the Green.   You may offer an online condolence by visiting www.westhavenfuneral.com.