Dear family, friends, and generous supporters,

It is with unimaginable heartbreak that we share the passing of our beloved father, Sakhorn Lon who passed early this morning. On May 8th 2024, our lives changed forever when we received the devastating news that he had suffered a severe stroke. The stroke left him bedridden, unable to walk, and struggling to speak. Even through the pain, our father never stopped fighting. He held on with courage, strength, and the same determination that defined his life from the very beginning.

Our father’s story is one of survival, sacrifice, and love. My parents fled Cambodia during the Khmer Rouge, escaping genocide and searching for safety and a better future. They first settled in California before eventually making Philadelphia their home — a place that became the heart of our family’s story.

As one of seven children, I’ve seen firsthand how deeply my father loved each of us. Half of us remain in Philadelphia and the other half in California, where he spent his final days. Before he passed, his only wish to me was simple yet deeply meaningful — to bring him back home to Philadelphia, the city he loved so much and where he dedicated so much of his life.

Many in the South Philadelphia community will remember him from the Buddhist Temple, where he served proudly as a Guard. He gave selflessly to others, always showing kindness, humility, and generosity. If you or your family have ever visited the temple, you likely remember his warm smile and the way he greeted everyone as if they were family.

He was a man who loved to dance, talk for hours, and enjoy good drinks and laughter with friends — but behind that lighthearted spirit was someone who had endured so much and still gave everything he had to care for his family.

We are creating this GoFundMe to honor his final wish: to bring him home to Philadelphia, the place that shaped who he was. The funds raised will go toward transportation, funeral, and memorial expenses so that we can give him the farewell he truly deserves. We will share updates on when the funeral will be held.

To all our family, friends, and those who knew my father — thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your love, prayers, and support. Your generosity and compassion mean the world to us as we say goodbye to a man who meant everything.

With love and gratitude,

Byron and Family