Joni Lynn Hikido (Ong)

Joni (TJ) Hikido (Ong) was born in San Francisco, California, on March 19, 1960. A gifted pianist and devoted teacher, she began at a young age sharing her love of classical music with those eager to learn.

After moving to Los Angeles for college, she built a long and fulfilling career as a medical office manager, working in physical therapy, pulmonology, and orthopedic surgery offices. Known for her warmth, kindness, and tireless work ethic, she touched countless lives—both professionally and personally.

Beyond her love for music, her compassion extended deeply to animals, especially dogs. Through her volunteer work, she discovered another joy in life: rescuing Kaia, our beloved one-eyed puppy.

She enjoyed taking long walks along the Hermosa Beach Strand with her treasured chihuahua “furbabies,” Cody, Lani, and Kaia. Often, she would walk to the end of the pier, speaking softly to the loved ones who were no longer with her.

In 2014, she received the heartbreaking news of her cancer diagnosis. Every day, she met life’s challenges with remarkable courage, unwavering grace, and quiet dignity. Despite her small frame, she was a fierce fighter—enduring surgeries, chemotherapy, and radiation with resilience and hope. She accepted her illness with serenity, continuing to give selflessly and finding joy and purpose in kindness and generosity despite the hardships of her battle.

She will be deeply missed and forever remembered. Her gentle spirit, compassion, and unwavering strength will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

A devoted wife, mom, sister, and friend, she is survived by her beloved husband, Michael Hikido; only daughter, Shannon Higa; her brother, Ronald Ong; Aunt Blossom Gong and countless other cousins