Sayoeung Yuong

Sayoeung Yuong was born April 1, 1927 in Kos Sotin Kampong Cham, Cambodia to parents, Sea Kim-Yuth and Nan Yuong. She was the second eldest of six children and spent much of her youth caring for her younger siblings while her parents worked to support the family. At 18, she met her soulmate, Meng Kim-Ea, at a family member's wedding. It was love at first sight, and they married shortly after meeting. Together, they built a big, loving family, raising 12 beautiful children-6 boys and 6 girls.
Sayoeung loved her family. When her husband passed away during the years of the Khmer Rouge, she did all she could to protect her children. Through it all, she never complained. In 1980, she and her children made it to Virginia where they established their roots.
A devout Theravada Buddhist, she observed the five precepts and led by example-living a life of purity and compassion. She was deeply involved in the Cambodian Buddhist Society community, practiced meditation, made regular donations to the temple and charitable organizations, and graciously shared the merits with her family and friends.
Her greatest love was food-followed closely by her grandchildren and children. She was a truly unique grandmother, never easily upset-unless you touched her food. Food was personal to her, a source of joy and comfort, and even in her final moments, she was still enjoying a meal.
Sayoeung was the undeniable glue that held the family together, making even the simplest moments feel special. Whether it was celebrating milestones or simply enjoying each other's company, her presence was the steady, loving force that made the family feel whole.
She is survived by her beloved sister, 10 children, 19 grandchildren, and 10 great-grandchildren. Her legacy of love, resilience, and joyful spirit will continue to live on through each of them.