Suntara Prak

March 18, 1935 – May 18, 2025

Suntara Prak, a man of unwavering resilience, boundless love, and quiet strength, passed away peacefully in the comfort of his cozy home in Virginia on May 18, 2025, at 4:30 AM. Born on March 18, 1935, in the serene village of Rakashai on the outskirts of Battambang City, Cambodia, Suntara’s life was a testament to courage, dedication, and the enduring power of family.

As a young man, Suntara devoted himself to education, serving as a school teacher in his homeland, where he inspired countless minds with his wisdom and kindness. His life took a harrowing turn during the Khmer Rouge regime, yet his unyielding spirit led him to guide his family of ten children to safety, escaping to a refugee camp in Thailand in 1979. In August 1981, through the generous sponsorship of River Road Baptist Church in Richmond, Virginia, Suntara and his family began a new chapter in the United States.

In Richmond, Suntara’s tireless work ethic shone as he labored in a factory building shopping carts, providing for his loved ones with steadfast determination. In 1989, he relocated his family to Long Beach, California, where he discovered a passion for construction. As a skilled builder, he breathed new life into old homes and apartment buildings, leaving a legacy of craftsmanship in every project. In the late 1990s, Suntara ventured into running a large greenhouse, growing fresh vegetables for the local Cambodian community in Long Beach. Though he eventually retired from this endeavor, his entrepreneurial spirit and love for nurturing growth remained a hallmark of his character.

Upon returning to Virginia, Suntara embraced his most cherished role: grandfather. With a heart full of joy, he delighted in watching his 14 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren grow, always eager to be a part of their lives. His home was a haven of warmth, filled with laughter, stories, and the love he poured into every moment shared with his family.

Suntara leaves behind eight children, 14 grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren, each carrying forward his legacy of resilience, compassion, and devotion. His life was a tapestry woven with sacrifice, perseverance, and an unshakable commitment to those he held dear.

As we bid farewell to Suntara Prak, we celebrate a life beautifully lived—a journey marked by overcoming adversity, building new beginnings, and nurturing a family that will forever honor his memory. May he rest in eternal peace, surrounded by the love he so generously gave.