David Aloysius Sao

David Aloysius Sao, "Dave," as he was known by his family and friends, passed away on Thursday, December 26, 2024 at 40 years old. Born June 23, 1984 in Philadelphia to his father, Khorn Sao, and mother, Hoeup Phuong, refugees and survivors of the 1975 Cambodian genocide, David was proud to be the son of hard-working immigrants.
After graduating Cardinal Dougherty High School he then studied at Penn State, and went on to co-found, The Culture Project, a non-profit dedicated to proclaiming the dignity of the human person and living sexual integrity. A convert to Catholicism, David's faith was central to his identity and mission as he dedicated his life to evangelization, often volunteering with the Sisters of Life, and sharing the Gospel with radical authenticity and joy through his relationships and talents in graphic design and photography.
David had a tremendous love for his home, the city of Philadelphia, both as an avid sports fan and an engaged citizen, often advocating for the Asian community of Philadelphia. His second home and family, as he called them, were well known to be in Ireland with the DeFaoite family.
A beloved friend to many thousands, David had a profound gift of fostering friendship with everyone he encountered. His contagious laughter, warmth of presence, and fun-loving spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
"I knew then that if I was loved on Earth, I was loved in heaven."
–St. Thérèse of Lisieux
Along with his parents, Dave is survived by his siblings: Stacey Pressley (Kyle), Phenny Deng (Angel), Michael Sao (Lisa), along with his nieces and nephews: Tianna, Victoria, Luis, Dylan, Arabella, Ariel, Nicholas, Matthew, and many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends, who were all part of his beloved extended family.
Relatives and friends are invited to all of the following:
Dave's Life Celebration: Friday, January 3, 2025, 6:00–8:00 p.m.
Geitner-Givnish Life Celebration Home
6230 N. 5th St. Philadelphia, PA 19120.
Church Visitation: Saturday, January 4, 2025, 9:00–11:00 a.m.
Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul
1723 Race St. Philadelphia, PA 19103
Funeral Mass: 11:00 a.m.
Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul
1723 Race St. Philadelphia, PA 19103 from 9:00–11:00 a.m.
Link for Mass Livestream: http://vimeo.com/event/4817144
Interment: Holy Sepulchre Cemetery between 1:00 - 1:30 p.m.
3301 W Cheltenham Ave, Philadelphia
Reception to follow.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to support the Sao family. https://www.gofundme.com/f/in-loving-memory-of-our-dear-friend-david-sao
Family services are entrusted to the Geitner-Givnish Life Celebration Home, 215-224-6300.