Teyent Negash

Born on November 2, 1982 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Teyent is a cherished sister, daughter, godmother, niece, cousin, and friend among so many other roles she filled with love. Her early years were spent between Ethiopia and Nigeria before her family immigrated to the United States when she was just four years old. She was raised in Northern Virginia, where her gentle spirit and boundless imagination began to blossom.

From a young age, Teyent stood out for her deep empathy, emotional intelligence, and creativity beyond her years. She developed an early love for reading and deep appreciation for storytelling, even enchanting others with the imaginative worlds she created.

In adulthood, Teyent built a life on her own terms, rooted in independence and connection. She spent time living in several cities including New York City and Washington, D.C., before returning to Northern Virginia where she eventually bought a home of her own. Her professional journey spanned the private sector, nonprofit world, and public education. Teyent found comfort and inspiration in creative expression, embracing her love of literature, film, theater, and music. She had as much appreciation for the simple comforts of home with a good book or movie as she had for experiences with loved ones.

Despite facing deep challenges and injustices in life, Teyent found profound joy in the unadorned, beautiful moments spent with those she loved. Whether through shared laughter, a listening ear, or a quiet moment of understanding, she offered her full heart to those around her.

Known for her warmth, compassion, loyalty, curiosity, and incomparable sense of humor, Teyent left an indelible mark on everyone who got to know her. She had a rare and remarkable ability to forge deep connections and made those around her feel seen, heard, and loved. Her presence is a reminder of the power of empathy, the beauty of vulnerability, and the healing nature of shared joy – even in life’s darkest chapters.

Teyent is forever remembered by her sister, parents, godson, extended family, friends, and so many others. Those who love her unconditionally will forever cherish her unique spirit, playful character, and quiet yet powerful presence.

Her memory continues in the lives she touched, and the lessons she taught us about love, humanity, laughter, and grace.

Over the past several months, we’ve taken time to grieve this overwhelming and life-altering loss. To honor Teyent in a way that truly reflects her spirit, we will gather for a Memorial and Celebration of Life on her birthday, holding space for both grief and gratitude.

Date: Sunday, November 2nd

Time: 10:00 AM

Location: Demaine Life Celebration Center (45511 E Severn Way Sterling, VA 20166)

All who wish to honor and celebrate her are welcome to this non-religious, inclusive gathering – a time to share memories, stories, love, connection, and more as we reflect on the extraordinary human that is Teyent. Please consider wearing something blue in her honor.

In lieu of flowers, we kindly ask that you consider a donation in Teyent’s honor to The Loveland Foundation at https://give.thelovelandfoundation.org/Teyent, this Black woman-led 501(c)(3) nonprofit provides access to free and discounted therapy, as well as other free mental health resources, to Black women and girls. To date, they have provided over 210,000 hours of therapy. Your gift will help continue the work of healing and empowerment in her name.