Hassan Jafari

In Loving Memory of Hassan Jafari
September 28, 1943 – March 22, 2025
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Hassan Jafari, a devoted husband, loving father, cherished grandfather, and beloved friend, who left this world peacefully on March 22, 2025, at his home in Garner, North Carolina. He was surrounded by the love of his wife Evelyn, his daughter Tara, and his son Jay.
Born on September 28, 1943, in Mashhad, Iran, Hassan was a trailblazer from the start. In May of 1968, he embarked on a brave and hopeful journey to the United States, becoming the first of his family to relocate from Iran in search of opportunity and freedom. It was in Raleigh that he met the love of his life, Evelyn. The two began a beautiful adventure, traveling the world together until 1979, when they returned to Raleigh after starting their family-first with their daughter, Tara, and then, in 1980, with their son, Jay.
In 1982, Hassan's entrepreneurial spirit came to life when he took ownership of Tippy's Mexican Restaurant. For 24 years, Tippy's was more than a business-it was a family endeavor, a community staple, and a place where Hassan's warm heart and generous spirit welcomed everyone who walked through the door.
Despite facing profound health challenges-including a life-threatening abdominal aortic aneurysm in 2014 and 11 years of dialysis-Hassan defied every odd. His resilience was awe-inspiring. He endured with grace and strength, cherishing every moment with his beloved family. He lived to witness both of his children marry their life partners and found immense joy in the laughter of his four grandchildren. He is survived by his wife Evelyn, children Tara (Eric) Nordby and Jay (Joanna) Jafari; his grandchildren Zion (10), Cora (9), Enzo (7), and Lana (4); his brothers Ali and Hadi, many nieces and nephews and countless friends.
Hassan's legacy is not only one of perseverance and love, but also one of generosity and guidance. He extended his hand to help numerous family members and friends build new lives in America and Canada, offering his home as a refuge and his wisdom as a compass.
Hassan was also a proud co-founder of the Iranian Cultural Society of North Carolina and served as the organization's first treasurer in 1987. Through his efforts, he helped bring together Iranian families and individuals across the Triangle area, fostering community, connection, and cultural pride.
Hassan Jafari touched lives across the world with his kindness, wisdom, and unwavering love for his family. His absence leaves a void no one else can fill, but his spirit will forever live on in the hearts of all who knew him, the community he helped build, and the countless lives he changed.
May he rest in eternal peace.
In accordance with Hassan Jafari's wishes, a celebration of his life will be held in the fall. Details will be shared in the near future.