Olivia Pham Nguyen

Olivia Pham Nguyen of Seattle, WA, passed away peacefully in 2025 after a brave, grace-filled battle with glioblastoma. A woman of remarkable strength and free spirit, Olivia never lost her love of freedom or her adventurous spirit, even in illness. Born in Da Lat, Vietnam, on November 10, 1984, she spent her childhood traveling the length of Vietnam with her parents. Those early journeys – from mountain forests to coastal towns – instilled in her a deep appreciation for her Vietnamese heritage and a lifelong passion for exploration.

As an adult, Olivia made her home in the Pacific Northwest, where she dreamed of opening a small dive bar by the sea and traveling the world. She delighted in meeting people from all cultures and sharing stories over music. Family was at the center of her life – she was a devoted daughter and loving sister whose warm spirit and generous heart brightened every family gathering. Olivia is survived by her parents, siblings, nieces, nephews, and a small circle of friends who will cherish her memory.

In late 2024, Olivia was diagnosed with glioblastoma, an aggressive brain cancer. She faced treatment with courage and grace, and always remained optimistic. Her care at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center and UW Medical Center was nothing short of excellent, and in her final weeks she was tenderly supported by the compassionate team at Evergreen Health Hospice. Olivia expressed gratitude for the love and support she received from her doctors, nurses, and hospice caregivers, who made her remaining days as peaceful as possible.

A Celebration of Life will be held to honor Olivia’s memory, blending Vietnamese Buddhist customs with the joy she brought to others. The family invites all who loved Olivia to join the service:

- Service: Thursday, November 8, 2025, 9:00 – 10:30 AM at Emmick Family Funeral Services – Lake View. Address: 1554 15th Avenue East, Seattle, WA 98112. - Interment: Burial to follow at historic Lake View Cemetery at 10:45 am on the same day.

In Vietnamese tradition, families honor the departed with an altar of offerings (flowers, fruit, candles and incense). At Olivia’s service, lighted incense sticks will be placed in odd numbers as a sign of respect and remembrance. Monks will chant Amitabha sutras, and family and friends will offer prayers according to Buddhist custom. As devotees of the Pure Land tradition pray for rebirth in Sukhāvatī (“Land of Bliss”), Olivia’s loved ones will recite Amitabha’s name and wish for her peaceful rebirth. Buddhists view death as a transition to the next life – a step closer to Nirvana, or enlightenment – so this celebration is joyful as much as reverent.

Rather than mourn quietly, the family will celebrate Olivia’s life – telling stories, sharing laughter, and remembering her spirit of freedom. The service will blend solemn chants and incense with smiles, honoring both her Vietnamese heritage and her bright, adventurous heart. In lieu of flowers or gifts, the family respectfully requests no charitable donations in Olivia’s name. Your presence, prayers, and memories are the most precious tributes you can offer.

Olivia’s family extends deep gratitude to all who cared for her and all who will join in remembering her. May she rest in peace and be reborn in the Western Pure Land of Amitābha Buddha. Namo Amituofo

Nguyen and Pham families