Sary Kong

Sary Kong, a beloved matriarch known for her laughter, compassion and nurturing presence as a mother to a very large and loving family, passed away peacefully on Monday, June 17, 2024, at the age of 87 at her home in Westfield, IN. She was surrounded by loved ones.

Born on February 10, 1937, in the Kandal Province of Cambodia, Sary fled her beloved homeland with her family to avoid the war and strife that occurred during the tragic Cambodian genocide in the mid 1970’s. The sacrifices she and her husband made for her children, to protect and give them a new life in America, will never be forgotten. 

Sary was an exceptional seamstress, using her meticulous craftmanship to create beautiful clothing worn and adored by family and friends. She was equally renowned for her culinary skills and delighted in preparing traditional Cambodian meals for those who gathered around her table. The precious memories of eating pho at family breakfasts, or devouring her famous eggrolls at Thanksgiving, are traditions that will be carried on by her children in her honor.

As a devoted mother, Sary raised twelve children (10 girls and 2 boys) with love and dedication. Her children remember her as a pillar of strength and support throughout their lives. She adored her many grandchildren, and her nurturing spirit extended beyond her immediate family, as she warmly welcomed countless others into her home and heart and was a respected member of the Cambodian community.

Sary Kong is survived by her loving children, spouses, and grandchildren. Oun Kong (Rasy, Ready, Lina, Nitya, Ratanak Khiev), Sambo & Haksry Ros (Nina Holmes, Tony Ros), Chanphal & Meng Ly (Khemary Carter, Chanmoni Farris, Khemara Ly, Chantal Caldwell), Chanthy & Martin Franklin (Madison, Taylor, & Jordan), Melina Peou To (Zach, Sarina), Mau & Jeff VanPelt (Maddie), Thavy Kong (Lauren), Kea (Keana & Ariel) & Ana Kong, Chamroeun & Jami Kong (Arden, Talan, Alaina), Sota & Todd Mineart, her 23 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandchild, Liam.

She is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Heng Kong; daughters, Sambath and Chanda Kong; and son-in-law, Peter To, who await her reunion in eternal peace.

Sary leaves behind a legacy of warmth, generosity, and love that will continue to inspire all fortunate enough to know her. The memory of her laughter and the love she felt for her family will grace and guide them from above.

Please join us to honor and celebrate Sary Kong's life. Visitation for Sary will be from 11am-2pm on Monday, July 1, 2024, at Flanner Buchanan – Hamilton Memorial Park– Prairie Waters (4180 Westfield Rd., Westfield, IN 46074), with a funeral service immediately following at 2pm. Burial will take place at Hamilton Memorial Park Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Wat Prama Vihara Cambodian Buddhist Community - 10036 Menominee Dr., Cincinnati OH 45251, in Sary's honor.

May her gentle soul rest in eternal peace.