Mahmoud Youssefi

Mahmoud (Mo) Reza Youssefi of Kensington, MD passed away on June 14, 2025 at the age of 68. Mo was larger than life. Direct, bold, and unapologetically himself, he left an unforgettable impression wherever he went. He had an inimitable presence and a sharp intellect, always ready with a story or advice for almost any situation. Those who knew him looked to him not only for his knowledge but for the strength and confidence he carried into every interaction. He found joy in exploration and discovery, treasuring new experiences and especially seeking out authentic, off-the-beaten-path destinations. He was famous among family and friends for discovering the best "hole in the wall" food spots, true hidden gems that reflected his adventurous palate and restless spirit. Professionally, Mo forged a notable career in technology and telecommunications. In Knoxville, Tennessee, he was a founder and the Chief Executive Officer of Celerity Systems, where he played a pivotal role in developing some of the first commercial video on demand technology for deployment in Asia and around the world. Later, while working in telecommunications, he often recounted how, during a casual "back-of-the-napkin" conversation with an engineer, he helped give rise to the cell tower backhaul industry-testament to his unique problem-solving and visionary thinking. Born in Tehran, Iran, Mo immigrated to the United States as a young boy and spent a significant portion of his adult life in Maryville, Tennessee. His years in Maryville became a defining chapter, and he maintained close ties there before moving to Montgomery County, Maryland, to be nearer his siblings. Throughout his life, Mo cultivated vibrant communities and built lasting connections across the country, from friends in Laguna Beach to old college buddies from George Mason University. After relocating to Maryland, Mo's restless energy found a natural outlet in travel; he frequently spent months at a time in Vietnam, always in pursuit of his next adventure. He is survived by his children: Chelsey Thompson, Jeremy Youssefi, Sheena McClain, Joshua Youssefi, Rebekah Youssefi; their mother Sandra Youssefi; grandchildren, Anthony, Isaac, Allie, Ezra, Ellie, Van and Marin; siblings, Angel, Farah, Farzi, and Mohamad; and mother, Mehry Youssefi. He was preceded in death by his father, daughter Talena Grubbs and granddaughter Alaina Charon. A celebration of life will be held in Maryville, Tennessee. For details, please contact the family.