Sophie Elizabeth O'Connor

Sophie Elizabeth O'Connor, cherished daughter of Dennis and Kristine O'Connor, passed away on Thursday, June 1, 2023. Sophie was born on September 16, 2004, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and her sudden departure from our lives leaves an irreplaceable void.

Sophie was a 2023 graduate from Washington High School with an impressive 4.0 GPA and had plans to attend the University of South Dakota for business in the fall.  Her abilities extended far beyond the academic sphere. She was a radiant force on both the dance and cheer teams, securing her place as a two-time State Champion. 

Knowing Sophie, it would be a disservice not to mention her unique flair for transforming the ordinary into something extraordinary. This included her knack for making sweatpants fit any occasion.

Her presence was more than just visual, it was felt. Her radiant smile, coupled with her infectious laughter, illuminated every room she entered, etching a lasting memory in the hearts of all who encountered her vibrant spirit. She was a lover of life's simple beauties, finding peace and joy in watching sunsets, their colors reflecting the warmth of her personality. Recently, she had bought a new camera, to capture the world as she saw it.

Sophie was a vault of secrets. Her friends and family often found comfort in her steady presence, knowing their words would be guarded safely within her, never to escape. It was a lighter, brighter facet of Sophie's character that brought an extra touch of warmth to her relationships, painting a delightful picture of a young woman who understood the value of trust and treasured the confidences entrusted to her.

Sophie's selfless act of becoming an organ donor has left an enduring legacy of compassion and hope. Through her generosity, she has transformed the lives of six individuals, gifting them a second chance at life. Sophie's profound act of kindness and courage shines as a beacon of hope, reminding us all of the incredible power we possess to touch and transform the lives of others, even beyond our time on this Earth.

As the youngest of five, Sophie was the adored sister of Ryan, Alyson, Hunter, and Brooke. She is survived by her doting grandparents Helen O'Connor, Karen and Clare Reed. Sophie's spirit will also be cherished by her extended family of 14 aunts, 13 uncles, and 58 first cousins. Sophie was preceded in death by her two grandfathers Paul O'Connor and Edward Van Cleave.

A visitation will take place on Wednesday, June 7th from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm, with a prayer service starting at 7:00 pm. The funeral mass will take place on Thursday, June 8 at 10:00 am with lunch to follow. Both the visitation and funeral mass will be held at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, 3601 E Dudley Ln, Sioux Falls, SD.  Interment will follow the luncheon at Springdale Cemetery, Sioux Falls, SD.

The family would like to invite those who were impacted by Sophie to share a funny story, memory, or moment that touched your heart. Your recollections of Sophie will provide comfort and solace during this challenging time. Please bring your favorite memory of Sophie to the visitation, funeral or if you prefer, mail them directly to the family. Each story and shared moment will help to keep her spirit alive and her memory vibrant. Your contribution will serve as a lasting tribute to Sophie, allowing us all to remember and celebrate her life in the most personal and meaningful way.

The family kindly requests that any desired memorials be directed to them as they navigate this difficult time and make plans for the most appropriate way to honor Sophie's memory.

During this sorrowful time, the O'Connor family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude for the outpouring of love, support, and kind wishes from the community. Sophie's legacy of love, laughter, and kindness will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.

The prayer service and funeral mass will be livestreamed on Holy Spirit Catholic Church, Sioux Falls' youtube channel at https://m.youtube.com/channel/UCkV-Tld2_KAmMRTbZWtCOhQ