Okhee Laura Hyon

Okhee Laura Hyon, a woman of strength and unwavering love, passed away on August 13, 2025, surrounded by her devoted husband and loving daughters. At 71, she concluded a five-year journey with stage 4 pancreatic cancer, a battle she faced with unbelievable bravery and an incredibly resilient spirit.

Born in South Korea, Okhee's early life was a vibrant tapestry of new places and experiences. She and her family immigrated first to Canada and then to the United States, living in diverse locations from Saskatchewan and New Brunswick to Maryland and Hazleton, Pennsylvania, where she graduated from high school. She continued her education at Mount Holyoke College, graduating in 1977. Although she initially considered following her father into medicine, her passion for fashion led her to a career as a buyer at Bloomingdale's, where she specialized in shoes and accessories.

In New York City, Okhee met Yonghee Hyon on a blind date, who proceeded to wine and dine her on a whirlwind two-month courtship; they were married in four months. For 44 years, Okhee was a source of steadfast joy for Yonghee. Together, they built a beautiful life centered around their children and grandchildren, to whom she was the best "Mimi". She was not only the heart of the home, but truly the anchor of the family, living with a selfless dedication to her loved ones. They shared a passion for travel, hiking, golf, and skiing, embracing every moment to the fullest. Even while battling cancer, Okhee's adventurous spirit never faded. She experienced her first all-inclusive experience in Mexico this past Christmas, deciding it “actually wasn’t too bad and quite convenient,” while also creating cherished memories with her grandchildren. She and Yonghee even managed to travel to Japan and Korea one last time this past April to see family and friends.

Much like her mother, Okhee's effervescent personality and generous heart drew people to her, as she nurtured decades-long friendships near and far. She found great joy in cooking, baking, and entertaining, using these activities as a way to gather and connect with those she loved. She curated and shared her famous travel itineraries, her legendary Christmas cookies and her travel-filled ‘Hyon Connection’ Christmas newsletters.

Her friendships were a constant source of support and happiness. From her 'Korean college friends' across the globe and friendships from her time at Mount Holyoke College, to reconnecting with friends from the past on social media — she deeply valued friendship and each connection was a beautiful silver lining during the last few years of her arduous health journey. To the 'Princeton Ladies': Okhee treasured these relationships dearly as they were sisters who went through life together, raising children, traveling, becoming grandparents and more, supporting each other through every joy and sadness.

Okhee is now reunited with her parents, Ken Kwang Woo Pyun and Susan Sook Ja Chang, and her infant sons, Christopher and Henry. She is survived by her loving husband, Yonghee Hyon; her beloved daughters Elizabeth and Katie Hyon; son-in-law Aaron Rubin, and her cherished grandsons, Theo and Sam Rubin. She is also survived by her brothers, Steve and Irving Pyun.

A private family burial will be held in Princeton. A memorial service celebrating Okhee's life will take place this fall, with details to be announced.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Okhee's memory to Memorial Sloan Kettering to fund research into rare cancers.