Miri Santo Tong

Miri was born on February 9, 1987, to Awedi Kej Ashor and Santo Tong in Khartoum, Sudan. She immigrated from Sudan to Indianapolis in 1999 at the age of 12, with her mother and younger sister Agok Tong, through the Exodus Refugee Immigration Program. Miri is remembered by family, friends, and coworkers as a bright soul who radiated kindness and compassion. Miri came to Freedom House Cradling Quarters over 18 years ago with an infectious smile and an open heart. The Freedom House family embraced her, and she immediately shared her desire to make the world a better place; she would give you the shirt off her back. As the seasons came and went, not only did she love and embrace her family, but her extended family which was very large. She would help and seek out resources for others that included nourishment, housing, utility assistance, and other resources that were badly needed for individuals in her social circle. Miri came to serve others where they stood, and that’s how she truly made the world a better place. She encouraged and uplifted many.

Miri’s loving Granny, “Rochelle Sholar“ shared the journey of one of Miri’s proud moments in her life, becoming a citizen of the United States of America. She studied and expressed how important it was becoming a legal citizen of the USA, while never letting go of her Sudanese Heritage. Miri wanted to be like her daughters, Emonie and Shania who were born US citizens.

She was a selfless sister, mother, and daughter who was always ready to lend a helping hand to those in need. Her smile could light up the darkest room, and her laughter was infectious. While working, she passionately supported her two daughters, and her mother with anything they may need.

Miri was preceded in death by her father Santo Tong, and aunt Akon Kej Ashor who lay to rest in Africa.

Miri is survived by her mother, Awedi Kej; siblings, Agok Tong, Dominic Kej, Ringo Deng, and Daniel Deng; daughters, Emonie Coleman and Shania Tong Jackson; future grandchild (child of her eldest daughter Emonie due in May 2024); and her extended family, Granny Rochelle, the Jackson family and Browning family.