Dr. Salim Sayegh

Salim Fouad Sayegh, 97, went to be with the Lord on January 16, 2026, after a long life marked by faith, service, and steadfast love. He was born in Jaffa, Palestine, on October 16th, 1928, and his journey carried him across countries, communities, and generations who were blessed by his kindness and devotion. Against all-odds and with God’s grace and protection he was able to study medicine as a Palestinian refugee, marry his lifelong love and move to a foreign land to start a family and a new job.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 65 years, Rima, and their two sons, Fouad (Susan) and Nader (Virna). He is also survived by his brothers, Dr. Hanna and Dr. Tony, seven grandchildren—Tatiana (Jon), Omar, Michael (Hannah), Natasha, and Cristina—and four great grandchildren: Amber, Olivia, Quentin, and Julian. His family was his joy, and he poured into them the same gentleness and care that defined his life’s work.

Dr. Sayegh placed his trust in Christ as his Lord and Savior early in life and persevered faithfully through many trials, especially in the past two decades. He loved the Lord deeply, cherished hymn singing, and treasured his time in Scripture. During his healthier years, he found great joy in worshipping with the congregation of the Arabic Baptist Church in Washington, DC.

A gifted and compassionate pediatrician, Dr. Sayegh served children and families in Palestine, Jordan, and Kuwait, where he became known not only for his medical skill but for his tender heart. After more than twenty years of service to the Government of Kuwait as a Pediatrician, he retired and immigrated to the United States, beginning a new chapter filled with simple pleasures and renewed purpose.

In retirement, he cultivated a passion for gardening and quickly became affectionately known as the “plant doctor.” He delighted in learning everything he could about plant diseases and how to nurture healthy growth. His garden became a place of beauty, curiosity, and quiet joy. Among his happiest moments were those spent playing cards with his grandchildren—especially spirited games of Saba’a u Nuss (seven and a half) during Christmas and New Year gatherings. These times were filled with laughter, storytelling, and the warmth of family he so dearly loved.

Dr. Sayegh’s legacy is one of faith, compassion, and quiet strength. His family rejoices that he is now at rest in the presence of the Lord he loved. “If we live, we live for the Lord; and if we die, we die for the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord.”

A funeral service will be held on January 31st at 10:00 a.m. at First Alliance Church in Silver Spring, Maryland (14500 New Hampshire Ave, Silver Spring, MD 20904). There will be a Mercy & Love meal after the funeral service. He will be buried at Gate of Heaven Cemetery (13801 Georgia Ave, Silver Spring, MD 20906) on Monday, February 2nd.

"In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Arabic Baptist Church, Washington DC (abcdc.org).