Kia Thao

Kia Thao was born on August 7, 1955 to the late Vam Tsheej Thoj and Txhiav Yaj in the city of Phou Pheng Noi, Xiengkhuang, Laos. Kia arrived to Marrero, Louisiana in November 1976 with her family. Kia worked as an electronic assembler, stationary production associate and later worked as a caregiver in a nursing home. As a business savvy entrepreneur, Kia co-owned a Hmong/American store and invested in real estate, co-owning apartments. Kia was full of life and made friends everywhere she went.

To those who knew Kia, she was a loving, kindhearted and charming woman. She had a vivacious personality and always made people around her laugh. She lit up any room she walked into with her beautiful smile. Kia enjoyed baking, cooking, gardening and was a stellar seamstress. She learned how to knit and crochet and made beautiful gifts to share with her family and loved ones. Kia loved her family beyond words and cherished spending time with her grandchildren. She was a compassionate spirit who enjoyed giving back to her community by volunteering at local nursing homes. Her love of traveling opened doors for her to try new things and live life outside the box. She was feisty, loving and had an eye for creating beautiful images through photography.

Kia was the cherished mother of May Youa "Julie" (Chris) Whitaker of Raleigh, N.C.; May Nyia (Thomas) Cha of San Jacinto, C.A.; Meng (May Nhia) Ly of Sacramento, C.A.; May Kou Ly of Banning, C.A.; Pader Ly of Banning, C.A.; Nujerry Suaodaovang (Erica) of Apple Valley,C.A.; Malee Vang of Hemet, C.A.; six grandchildren: Juliane, Brandon, Alex, Faith, Shea and Mathew and a host of loving family and friends.

Through her, we have witnessed what resilience and perseverance truly looks like. We honor her today and every day as a woman of faith, compassion, humor and wisdom, who lived her life to the fullest. All whom loved her dearly, will not forget her tenacity, wit, charm, grace and undying love and caring for them.