Roya Christine Sadigh, a bright and vibrant light in the lives of all who knew her, was born on June 19, 1978, in St. Charles, Illinois, and left this world far too soon on November 24, 2004, at the age of 26.

Roya grew up surrounded by the love of her family and the close-knit community of St. Charles. From a young age she stood out—as a competitive gymnast who brought focus, strength, and determination to every routine, as a gifted student who excelled in her studies, and as an artistic soul whose creativity added color and beauty to the world around her. Those same qualities followed her into adulthood. She was kind in a way that made people feel seen, funny in a way that could lighten even the heaviest moments, and fiercely dedicated to the people and principles she held dear. Roya stood firmly in her beliefs and lived with a quiet strength that inspired those around her.

Her Christian faith was a cornerstone of her life, guiding her with grace and conviction. She loved her family deeply and without reservation—her father, Parviz Sadigh, her mother, Lois Hawkins, and her siblings, Anthony, Cyrus, and Sarah, were the heart of her world. That same devoted love extended outward to her many friends and family, all of whom felt the rare gift of being truly cared for by Roya. Though she never had the chance to meet them, her love continues through the next generation—her nieces and nephews Cameron, Hannah, Ames, Miriam, Maeve, Peyton, Jacob, and Evelyn. Three of her nieces proudly carry her name as a living tribute to the aunt they know through stories, photographs, and the lasting imprint she left on their family.

After graduating with her bachelor’s degree from Judson University, Roya stepped into a promising career in medical sales. She brought the same dedication, intelligence, and integrity to her work that she had shown as a student and athlete, and those who worked alongside her recognized the bright future that lay ahead of her.

Though her time with us was heartbreakingly brief, Roya left a lasting imprint. She was the friend who made you laugh until you cried, the sister and daughter who loved without condition, and the young woman whose fierce loyalty, artistic spirit, and gentle strength made the world feel a little brighter. At this 30th high school reunion, we gather not only in sorrow for what was lost, but in gratitude for the gift of having known her.

Roya is survived by her father, Parviz Sadigh; her mother, Lois Hawkins, and stepfather, Mark Hawkins; her siblings, Anthony, Cyrus, and Sarah; and by the many friends and family whose lives were forever touched by hers. Her memory also lives on in her nieces and nephews: Cameron, Hannah, Ames, Miriam, Maeve, Peyton, Jacob, and Evelyn.

Her memory continues to live on in the laughter she shared, the faith she carried, the beauty she created, and the love she so freely gave.

In the years since Roya’s passing, her mother, Lois Hawkins, has devoted considerable time and energy to advocating for side underride protection on large trucks. These safety measures could help prevent similar tragedies and make such collisions more survivable. Those who wish to learn more or support this important work are invited to visit stopunderrides.org.

In Memory of My Beloved Sister Roya,

Sarah Larimore