Yao Seo Saelee

Yao Seo was born on July 10, 1957, in Sayaboury, Laos. His life began with hardship, yet it was shaped by courage, resilience, and love that touched all who knew him. In 1976, at just nineteen, he fled Laos during the turmoil of the Secret War and entered the Thai refugee camps. He was the first in his family to escape, and with extraordinary bravery, he returned time and again across dangerous borders to help bring his loved ones to safety. In 1980, he, his wife Cheng Chieng, their two young sons, and his sister were sponsored by a Christian family in Abilene, Texas. He was the first in his family to set foot in United States, carrying with him both the pain of the past and the hope of a better future. By 1982, he and his growing family became one of the first Iu Mienh families to settle in Merced, California.

Long before he left Laos, Yao Seo’s family cared for three elephants named Boun Yeng, Ee Cum Huk, Ee Peng. They were not only animals but companions and symbols of strength. They lived on in his memory as reminders of his roots and the land that shaped him.

In Merced, Yao Seo became known not only as a farmer and hunter but as a man of faith and wisdom. As a certified Taoist Priest, he was deeply respected by Iu Mienh both locally and across the world. Many people turned to him in their most important moments. During his funeral, family and friends from near and far spoke about how his prayers, blessings, and guidance carried them through life’s most difficult moments. His presence and influence in their lives was filled with meaning.

He found joy in raising Thai Asil chickens. He cared for them with patience and pride, and his coop, often filled with more than two hundred birds, became well known throughout the community. His friendship with the Hmong community was equally important. They were the ones who welcomed him to Merced, who introduced him to hunting in California, and who shared in the tradition of raising Thai Asil chickens. Those friendships lasted his entire life.

Yao Seo was also incredibly detailed, imaginative, and resourceful. He had a gift for making something out of nothing, turning little into much. He could repurpose anything, transforming ordinary or discarded items into tools, shelters, or solutions that supported his family and community. Whether he was farming, fixing, or creating, he always found a way to provide for his family and to share with others. The outdoors was his sanctuary. He loved raising his chickens, hunting, and fishing, not only for food but for the peace and connection it gave him. His name became part of the land itself, with one hunting ground known as Yao Seo Horngz. He was also closely tied to Buo Norm Biauv and Jauv Siqv, places where his footsteps and legacy will always be remembered.

Life was never easy for Yao Seo, but he faced every challenge with courage and perseverance. He fought through hardship, built a new life against all odds, and carried his strength until his last days. He was a pioneer, a provider, a guide, and a fighter and above all, he was a husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend who gave everything for those he loved.

Yao Seo is preceded in death by his parents, Wuen Sing Saelee and Mang Kwang Saechao; four siblings, Khou Sing, Muang Thon, Ou Sing, and Lu Sing; and one child, Cheo Saelee. He is survived by his wife, Cheng Chieng; his children Tzeng Seo, San Seo, Sou Seo, Ou seo, and Chai Seo; three daughters-in-law and one son-in-law; his siblings San Sing, Su Sing, Tenh Sing, Chang Sing, and Feuy Sing; thirteen grandchildren; one great grandchild; and many cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

From a small village in Laos, where elephants once walked beside him, to the farmlands of Merced, the life of Yao Seo Sing was one of sacrifice, perseverance, and love. Every part of his story mattered. Every act of courage, every prayer he offered, every chicken he raised, every friend he welcomed, and every lesson he passed down lives on. His legacy is not only in the places that bear his name or the communities he helped build but in the countless hearts that carry his spirit forward.

His funeral service will be held on Saturday, August 30, 2025, in Merced, California.