Neang Eav Chea

Neang Eav Chea, age 94, of Sturgis, Michigan, passed away peacefully at her home early Friday morning, September 19, 2025.

She was born on January 2, 1931, in Kampong Cham Province, Cambodia, the daughter of the late Seng and Toie Tung.

Neang spent much of her early life in Cambodia, where she married Kokong Chea and became the proud mother of eight children. She was a survivor of the Khmer Rouge regime, which claimed the lives of her husband and five of her children. In August of 1979, Neang immigrated to the United States with two of her daughters and a son-in-law, sponsored by Three Rivers Lutheran Church. A few years later, she was joyfully reunited with her third surviving daughter, who had been living in Austria.

In Michigan, Neang worked for more than 10 years at TH Plastics in Mendon before retiring. Known for her kindness, generosity, and playful spirit, she brought people together through laughter, storytelling, and card games. She remained active throughout her life, attending Cambodian community gatherings and traveling with her family.

Family was always at the heart of Neang's life. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose courage and strength laid the foundation for future generations. She is lovingly remembered by her three daughters: Kheng (Vieng) Sre of Sturgis, Jenna (Khuon) Ri, and Srey (Brett) Deeds; seven grandchildren: James (LyNy) Sre, Julie Sre, Janie Franklin, Tony (E'coe) Ri, Jason (Sannita) Ri, Samantha (Devin) Syar, and Alexandria Deeds; and seven great-grandchildren. She also leaves behind several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; three sons: Teang Eav Chea, Chhoor Eav Chea, and Rhatha Eav Chea; two daughters: Ghache Eav Chea and Kim Eav Chea; and all five of her siblings.

Neang's life was a remarkable testament to perseverance, faith, and unconditional love. Despite enduring profound loss, she built a legacy of hope, togetherness, and joy that will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Visitation will be held Saturday, September 27, 2025 from 12 p.m. until the beginning of Buddhist services at approximately 2 p.m. at Yoder-Culp Funeral Home, 1911 S. Main St., Goshen, IN 46526.