Homayoun Nikbin Rouhani (1922–2017) was a radiant presence whose life far exceeded the narrow expectations placed on women of her time. Born in Tabriz, Iran, she brought joy from the moment of her birth and grew into a woman defined by compassion, resilience, and service.

Married young, she insisted on continuing her education, later pursuing nursing and dedicating herself to midwifery. Known as Banou Khanum in Qazvin, she built a clinic beside her home, cared for countless women and children, and became a pillar of her community. She never turned away a patient, often returning payment with the request to “use it to educate the child.” Education, she believed, was the one possession no one could take away.

Beloved by generations, nearly every family in Qazvin knew her care and kindness. Even those who once opposed her faith came to honor and respect her after experiencing her healing hands and compassionate spirit.

After emigrating to Canada due to religious persecution, she continued nursing, volunteering, and serving her community. She passed away at age 96, leaving behind a legacy of love, courage, and devotion to service and education, an enduring inspiration to all who knew her.