Soraya Taba Taba Vakili

Soraya Vakili passed away peacefully just days before her 80th birthday, surrounded by the love and presence of her family. She is survived by her devoted husband, Dr. Saeed Vakili, and their five children: Ali Tabatabai, Tirajeh (Wes) Smith, Tamara (Mohammad) Behbahani, Roxanna Vakili, and Samira (Vlasis) Vakili. She was also a joyful and deeply proud grandmother to six grandchildren: Crystal, Kogan, Stella, Brandon, Brooke, and Zoe.

She leaves behind her beloved sisters, Dr. Parvin Carter & Family and Afi Kleinman & Family, and was preceded in death by her parents and her dear niece—whose memories she carried with her always.

Soraya was born in Tehran, Iran, where she built a remarkable life grounded in education, leadership, and quiet determination. At a time when women were often excluded from positions of authority, Soraya broke barriers by becoming a vice principal—proving, through action, that women belonged at the table. She was a true trailblazer, fearless and driven, but always humble about her accomplishments.

To know Soraya was to feel safe. She had a calm strength, a quiet loyalty, and a dry, often unexpected sense of humor that could make you laugh when you needed it most. She didn’t need attention, but you always felt her presence. She was steady, dependable—someone you could count on without question. She showed up. Every time.

Soraya loved to cook—not just because she enjoyed it, but because it was one of the ways she expressed her love. Her food was comforting and deeply thoughtful, always made from scratch, always made with care. She even had a second kitchen in the garage to have enough space to cook. Her home was full of warmth—of conversation, laughter, and the smell of something delicious simmering on the stove.

She was also endlessly creative. She could sew, knit, and craft with incredible skill, making things not for show, but to give—to comfort, to care, to wrap you in something made by her hands.

For more than 32 years, Soraya fought cancer numerous times. She faced it quietly but fiercely, never allowing it to define her. Her strength wasn't loud, but it was powerful. Her fight was physical, yes—but also emotional, spiritual, and rooted in love. Through it all, she lived for her family, and for the life she built with them.

A private memorial will be held by her children, who will carry her spirit forward—through small acts of love, quiet strength, unexpected laughter, and showing up for the people who need them. Just like she always did.