Jafar Ali Pashaei (aka Baba) was born in 1947 in the small town of Kurijan in the Central District of Kabudarahang County, Hamadan Province, Iran. He was preceded in death by his parents, Zahra Mirzaei and Zain-al-Abideen Pashaei, and his younger brother, Ali.

In 1973, Baba immigrated to the United States in search of a better life for himself. He attended the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, Montgomery College, and Stony Brook Community College.  In October 1975, through a blind date set up by mutual friends, he met Beverly Davis. Seven months later, the two were married in Salisbury, Maryland. 

Baba was married to Beverly for 44 years. Together, they had 7 children (Mariam, Hosein, Fatima, Leila, Sara, Zainab, and Ibrahim) and 7 grandchildren (Zane, Hasan, Meena, Saber, Amir, Yousef, and Setara).  For better or worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health, they took their vows seriously and were deeply committed to one another. Their love carried them through the good times and the bad, and provided a solid foundation for their family to build upon.

Baba leaves behind 4 siblings in Iran, two sisters (Kobra and Fatimeh) and two brothers (Abbas and Javad), and several nieces and nephews.

Baba was an avid chef, gardener, advice-giver, and jack-of-all-trades. For 18 years, he operated a catering business and restaurant on Georgia Avenue in Washington, D.C. Baba poured love into every dish he made, and his customers/clients understood that they were getting more than just a warm meal to fill their stomachs. Baba provided nourishment for the body and soul.

Baba was incredibly generous with his time and knowledge. He guided many of his customers, friends, and family members through difficult times. He was forgiving, supportive, and saw value in every individual. There was no such thing as a lost cause to Baba.

Baba liked a good project and he wasn’t afraid to tackle any problem—no matter the level of difficulty.  If you were in a jam, or stranded on the side of the road, he’d be the first to offer his help. He was called “baba” (father) by many people because he was selfless, caring and nurturing—his love was not limited only to those who shared his DNA.

Baba lived simply, stayed humble, and remained grateful until the very end. He will be dearly missed by his family and friends.