Sotheary Sem

Sotheary Sem, born on June 4, 1983, in Wichita, Kansas, to Sem Ath and Saing Tim, passed away on March 7, 2026, at the age of 42 at her residence in Providence, Rhode Island, after an illness. She moved with her family to Providence as a child, where she attended Central High School and built a life centered on the people she loved.

A devoted full-time mother, Sotheary dedicated herself to raising and caring for her seven children. She dreamed of one day becoming a school nurse, drawn by her natural desire to help others. Deeply connected to her Buddhist faith and temple community, she found strength and meaning in honoring her cultural traditions and the values passed down through her family. She was known for her caring and supportive nature, always the first to offer help when it was needed.

Sotheary brought joy and warmth to those around her with her bright personality and wonderful sense of humor. Her laughter was contagious, often filling the room and drawing others in. She cherished simple pleasures, especially baking cookies, brownies, and other sweets to share with loved ones. She enjoyed fishing with her family, dancing and singing whenever music played, and making sure no one was left out of the fun. Above all, she had a gift for bringing people together and creating moments of happiness.

She is survived by her father, Sem Ath, her seven children—including Brandon Aron Sem and his wife Mei Long, Ryan Sem, Nathan Sem, Ava Sem, Avontae Sem, Amir Sem, and Asia Sem—and her many grandchildren, all of whom will carry forward the love, kindness, and laughter she so generously shared.