Sawako Kariya passed away peacefully in her sleep at the age of 84 in the early morning hours of March 23, 2025, in the same house in Los Angeles, Calif. she had lived in since 1964. Sawako was born August 3, 1940, to Sajirou and Hana Narita in Inami-chou, Wakayama-ken, Japan.
Sawako was preceded in death by her husband of 51 years, Yoshihisa Kariya; brothers, Hiroichi Narita, Inaji Narita, and Kouji Narita; and sisters, Kazuko Jyoudume and Toshiko Takehara. She is survived by sons, Ray Kariya, Bruce Kariya, and Steven Kariya; daughters-in-law, Tracy Kariya (Bruce) and Bambilyn Fair (Steven); grandson, Niccolo Kariya; step-granddaughters, Faye Barnowe and Rosemary Barnowe; and step-grandson, Jesse Fair; and sisters, Hisae Yamashita and Yoshiko Nakamoto; along with many nieces, nephews and other relatives in Japan.
Sawako’s kind and sweet nature was immediately apparent to all that met her. All that came to know her well will miss her loving presence as she is once again reunited with her loving husband and best friend, Yoshihisa.
A funeral service honoring Sawako’s life will be held Saturday, May 10, 2025, 10 a.m. at Venice Hongwanji Buddhist Temple, located at 12371 Braddock Dr., Culver City, California 90230.