Amanda Soto, age 45 passed away Monday March 1, 2021 at Stanford Medical Center, after a relentless battle with cancer. Amanda was born on October 21, 1975 in Merced California to Greg and Irene Soto. She was the youngest of three daughters. At the time of her birth, she was given a like expectancy of 4 months, due to Spinal Bifida. She defied those odds and went on to live a full and productive life, living independently.
She was a graduate of Merced Junior College and went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in Deaf Studies from Fresno State. Before her illness prevented her from working any longer, she was employed as a speech pathologist assistant at an elementary school. She was heartbroken not being able to return to work as she cared so deeply for the students in her program.
Amanda also took enjoyment in her small businesses, whether it was selling figs at the local farmers’ market, selling her jewelry, or knitting scarves for family and friends. Before her death, she was working on making scarves for nurses and aids taking care of her. She participated in any cancer causes and found herself being an advocate for others living in her circumstances.
She was an active member at Legacy Christion Church in Clovis, participating in various small groups and a member of the serving team.
She was preceded in death by her father Greg Soto, her grandparents; Ida and Gregorio Soto, Rina and Augustine Nevarez.
Amanda is survived by her mother, Irene Soto; sisters Melissa Avila (Albert), Christina Zamora (Mark); and five nieces and nephews.
She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
