Phuon Anh Huynh

Phuon Anh Huynh, 73, of Mebane, North Carolina, passed away on January 22, 2025, at Duke University Hospital Hospice after four years of declining health surrounded by his loving family. He was born on May 27, 1951, in Saigon, Vietnam, and lived an extraordinary life marked by a commitment to his family, his career, and his passions.

Phuon began his education in Vietnam during his early years. Later he graduated from the University of Saigon with a bachelor’s degree in agriculture. During his bachelor degree studies Phuon studied abroad in Vienna Austria. He met his wife Debbie while they both attended Harford Community College in Bel Air Maryland where Phuon received an associate degree in computer science. After they married, Phuon enrolled at and graduated from The University of Baltimore with a computer science degree. After moving to North Carolina to work for IBM, Phuon earned his Master of Business Administration degree at Elon University. His academic endeavors paved the way for a notable career, where he dedicated 32 years of service to IBM, contributing to the technological advancements of his time. During his years at IBM, Phuon achieved the titles of Sr. IT Specialist, SAP Basis Consultant and worked in Global Technology Services. He traveled all over the world for IBM.

Demonstrating his sense of duty and bravery, Phuon served as a First Lieutenant in the South Vietnamese Air Force (VNAF) during the Vietnam War, where he was a C-130 navigator. He came to Texas during the war to train to become a tower controller in an air traffic control tower. His experience in the military instilled in him a deep respect for discipline and honor, which he carried throughout his life.

Phuon escaped from Tan Son Nhut Air Base on April 28, 1975 as it was being bombed by the Vietnam People’s Air Force (VPAF) in the last days of the Vietnam war. He came to the United States of America as a refugee where he built a successful life, career and family through grit, perseverance and determination.

Known for his warm personality, Phuon was someone whom people would travel across the country to visit. He created an inviting atmosphere wherever he went, drawing in friends and family alike. Phuon was passionate about cooking, especially Vietnamese and French cuisine. His love for gardening and do-it-yourself projects reflected his creative spirit. He also enjoyed world travel and was an avid marathon runner, completing 19 marathons over the years.

Phuon took great pride in his family. He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Deborah Huynh; his children, Connie Bates (Kyle Busby), Jeremy Huynh (Natalie Omattage-Huynh), Forrest Huynh, and Keegan Huynh; and cherished grandchildren, Cameron Busby and Dayani Huynh. Phuon is also survived by his sisters, Chantal (Phuong) Huynh and Karine (Hoa Kim Thi) Huynh, and brothers, Hien Kim Huynh, Vincent (Hanh) Kim Huynh, and Hung Kim Huynh. He is preceded in death by his parents, Eng Huynh and Thi Diep Ho, and his brother, Phuoc Huynh.

Service details will be announced shortly...