Asma E Sabbagha

Dr. Asma E. Sabbagha (a.k.a. Souma) passed away peacefully on January 22, 2021 in Chicago Illinois. She was born in France to her late parents Elias Sahyouni and Alma Nasir Sahyouni. Her beloved husband of 62 years, Rudy E. Sabbagha, M.D. passed November 15, 2020. Asma referred to him as her “best friend” and “God on earth”.  Souma is survived by her son, Dr. Elias (Hope) Rudy Sabbagha; daughter Dr. Randa (fiancé B. James Bynum) Sabbagha; grandchildren, Rudy Austin Sabbagha; Sydney Marie Sabbagha.  Souma is also survived by her brother Karl (Irene) Sahyouni as well as many nieces and nephews.

Dr. Asma Sabbagha was a Clinical Psychologist, practicing in Chicago, Illinois. Souma was astute and had the acumen to reason, problem solve, and “read” people, given her high level of intelligence (IQ) and empathy (EQ).  Souma had a special affinity to understand the nature of human behavior.

Souma founded Souma Diagnostic LTD and brought advanced obstetric and gynecologic ultrasound to many facilities throughout Illinois and Indiana.  She was an astute business woman and her finely tuned ability to understand people and situations allowed her success in her work. 

In addition to a busy clinical schedule, she was an active member of several woman’s health boards at Prentice Women’s Hospital and was a generous supporter of their missions.  Asma and Rudy supported the Brain Tumor Institute and Stroke Center at Northwestern Memorial Hospital.

Those who had the privilege to have known her, understood her truly unique presence.  She listened, encouraged and even facilitated resolving your problems. Souma was your forever cheer leader.   Asma had a generous spirit and desire to help people. These qualities were the foundation of her approach to life.  If you visited Souma, you were guaranteed to go home with sound advice, Godiva chocolate, Dom champagne, even Sara Lee pound cake (Her favorite) and a George Washington or two.

Asma always had a smile, a positive outlook, and kind words for all. Her favorite expressions we enjoyed were “Two hands that clap”; “ You have the heart and the brain”; “Not even Jesus made everyone happy”; “A women can do what a man can do” and “Thank God”. She will be dearly missed. Souma is in a better place and has been reunited with the love of her life, Rudy. May they rest in peace together and in our hearts for eternity.

Those who wish to honor Dr. Asma Sabbagha should not send flowers or make donations, but share their love with others. Loving one another would put a smile on her face.

A virtual celebration of life is being planned to honor Dr. Asma Sabbagha. If you are interested in these details, please email Hope at asma.sabbagha34@gmail.com.