Navid Zanjani

With deep sorrow, we share that our beloved Navid Zanjani passed away on August 10, 2025. Born and raised in Houston, Texas, Navid carried with him a deep love for his city, his community, and his heritage.

A proud alumnus of the University of Houston, Navid earned a double major in Economics and Political Science, fields that reflected both his intellectual curiosity and his commitment to public life.

For several years, he owned and operated a Persian rug business, using his entrepreneurial spirit to build connections across cultures and communities. During that time and beyond, Navid also pursued a lifelong passion for travel, exploring over 50 countries throughout his life. Whether trekking through the mountains of Costa Rica, wandering the markets of Spain, or sharing meals in villages across Asia, he approached every journey with curiosity, openness, and deep respect for the people and traditions he encountered. Travel wasn’t just a hobby it was a way of life that shaped his worldview and deepened his commitment to global understanding.

He remained deeply involved in Houston’s Persian community both socially and professionally. He participated in cultural events, supported Iranian-American civic organizations, and mentored younger members of the community who shared his passion for entrepreneurship and public service. He saw his heritage not as a separate part of his identity, but as something that enriched his work and gave it deeper meaning.

In 2008, Navid transitioned into politics, where he spent the remainder of his career. He distinguished himself in campaign management, campaign finance, and advocacy, working on local and national campaigns with integrity, precision, and a deep sense of responsibility. He was especially known for empowering voices that often went unheard and for bringing a sharp, principled approach to every cause he took on.

Beyond his professional life, Navid was the kind of friend who truly showed up whether it was for a late-night conversation, a spontaneous adventure, or simply to listen when life felt heavy. His circle of friends was as wide as it was deep, bound together by his warmth, humor, and genuine care. He had a way of making people feel seen and valued, no matter the circumstances.

He is survived by his devoted mother Nadereh, father Mostafa, brother Nima, and sister Mariam, all of whom stood by him through every chapter of his journey. He was a son, a brother, a mentor, and a bridge between communities, someone who never lost sight of where he came from or where he hoped the world could go.

A memorial service will be held by the family at Memorial Oaks Funeral Home and Cemetery.

His life was a testament to hard work, cultural pride, deep friendship, and the power of conviction. He will be missed dearly and remembered always.

"Regret nothing, do everything. I walk into the darkness so others can see my light."