ASU remembers

   

Omar Ira Young

Software Engineer - about 2020

   

  

  

January 26, 2026

Omar Ira Young earned a degree in Computer Science with a minor in Physics from Guilford College in North Carolina in 2009.

Omar built a successful career as a software engineer, working for Duke University, Boeing, and later serving as Lead Software Engineer at Arizona State University.

After the COVID pandemic, he chose to follow a different calling, completing yoga teacher training, advanced yoga studies, and becoming a Reiki Master.

Giving back was always important to Omar. As a young cancer survivor, he volunteered as an American Cancer Society Relay for Life Ambassador. In recent years, he devoted his time to Phoenix Children's Hospital Camp Rainbow, supporting children facing serious illness.

He is survived by his parents, Bless and Gregory Young; his beloved cats, Bella and Luna; his best friend, Lizzie; and many loving aunts, uncles, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his brother.

A Celebration of Life will be planned at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Omar's memory to the American Cancer Society, the Make-A-Wish Foundation, or Phoenix Children's Hospital Camp Rainbow.