Sara Malik-Watson

January 15, 1981 - December 19, 2023

Modesto, California - Sara Malik-Watson was the bravest woman we've ever known. Our dear, Sara lost her 9-month battle with cancer on December 19, 2023, surrounded by her loving family and friends.

Sara was born on January 15,1981. She graduated from Central Catholic High school and participated in the Junior Olympics sports program.

Sara had so many wonderful attributes-- like her kind, loving and thoughtful manner--If you were lucky enough to call yourself a friend, Sara would always be there for you. She had an amazing appreciation for music. From new songs to the classics, she loved them and knew them all. Sara was very fun loving and joyous. She was so beautiful with the most incredible smile. Her laugh was infectious; you couldn't help but join in her silliness. She was a dedicated and loving mother to her two sons, Vance and Jace; she adored those two young men and was a wonderful loving daughter.

God blessed us when he made Sara such an important part of our family.

One of Sara's proudest achievements was earning her degree in counseling. She got so much joy in helping people. Her passion and determination were important elements in helping to find those who were in desperate need of some assistance. Sara helped save many people-- unaware of the positive impact she was having on those lives.

Sara is survived by her beloved sons Vance and Jace Whitehead; her mother Rosanne (Brad) Wimberly; her father Bob (Sandy) Malik; her sisters Natalie Malik and Robyn St Pierre; her brothers Paul Malik, Robert Wimberly, Dustin Hill, Max Nesmith, Logan Nesmith; 2 nieces and 4 nephews. Sara is preceded in death by her stepfather Dominic Ciuffo.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Modesto Bee on Jan. 25, 2024.

Memories and Condolences
for Sara Malik-Watson

3 Entries

Kenley

August 12, 2025

the world will never know the Queen you were, thank you for everything you did for me when we were in our teens, you really help mold me to be the man I am today. I wish we would have kept in touch since you went back to your hometown. I´ll always love you.

Brandon

March 14, 2025

I am NOT sure this is the same Sara I met in the early 2000s in the Los Angeles area, if this Sara did have family in the Long Beach area and visited during summers, drove an Integra then omg this is crazy! Condolences to the family regardless....

Roger W. Morgan

January 27, 2024

I have been her very proud "uncle" since her birth. I've been inspired by her life's story and her ability to face overwhelming challenges with faith, courage, and enthusiasm. Although she's not my real niece, Sara has filled my heart with lessons she has taught me in my own journey. Her dad and mom have been among my very closest friends for more than 50 years and I'm proud to join with them in this celebration of her life.

Showing 1 - 3 of 3 results

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Memorial Events
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To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

Funeral services provided by:

Franklin & Downs Funeral Home McHenry Chapel

1050 McHenry Avenue, Modesto, CA 95350

How to support Sara's loved ones

Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.