Hushang Jalal Javid, 102, a former resident of Riverside, died peacefully in his sleep on Saturday morning, Sept. 16, 2023. He enjoyed excellent health all the days of his life, gradually growing fatigued over his last month. Born on Aug. 10, 1921 in Tehran, Iran, into a loving extended family environment, he was raised in the Baha’i Faith and embraced their emphasis on education, working diligently to be top in his class. In 1943, he traveled to the U.S. for medical studies with eight other Persian youth, including his younger brother Farhang and his cousin. He appreciated the opportunities here and established his life in the U.S., serving his country as a captain in the U.S. Army in Tacoma, Washington, for several years. He was a resident of Riverside from 1957-1971.
He lived his life with intense vigor, compassion for others, selflessness and service in his profession as a pioneer in the field of cardiac surgery. Deeply interested in furthering his field, he continued his education, earning an MS and a PhD at the University of Illinois. As a professor of surgery at the University of Illinois, he was also president of Cardiovascular Surgical Associates at Rush Presbyterian St. Luke Hospital. He invented a device called the Javid shunt, still used today for Carotid Endarterectomy surgery.
Although actively engaged in a busy surgical practice, he also conducted research and authored many research papers and delivered presentations at professional society meetings, nationally and internationally. He was known for being humble and soft spoken, despite his many accomplishments. His generosity of spirit extended far beyond his immediate circle of peers; many were mentored and served by his wise counsel through the years.
As a family man, he was always available and involved in the lives of his growing family, exuding warmth and good humor, positive beliefs and sterling character traits. Outside his intense professional career, he particularly enjoyed gardening and woodworking hobbies.
Hushang Javid was the husband of Dolores Patricia Higgins Javid, enjoying 72 years of married life together. He was preceded in death by his son Leighton in 2016, and is survived by three daughters, Linette [Daniel] Kuy, Liana [Reza] Dabir, and Laurel [Tom] Dreger, nine grandchildren, and 13 (soon 15) great-grandchildren.
There will be a private family service on Sept. 23 in Detroit, Michigan.
A memorial service at the Baha’i House of Worship, Wilmette, Illinois, will be held on a date to be announced.
