Mary Maly Hok

Mary Somaly Hok was born in Battambang, Cambodia in 1942, the daughter of Hok Jun and Nguoun Nyiep. She was a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and wife. In her youth, she helped to support her family by being a young entrepreneur, selling food by the roadside. She would go on to become a certified dressmaker.

Life would bring a lot of challenges, tragedies and opportunities. She and some family escaped the Khmer Rouge regime but many family members did not. Her family was fortunate enough to be sponsored to relocate to a new life in the United States.

Mary’s love of business followed her throughout her life and it led her to being a small business owner with running a sewing shop and then running a donut shop. She worked tirelessly to support her family and achieved the American dream of home ownership with all of her children, Sabrina, Pauline, Michelle and Michael, attending college. She was a tough business woman but also had a soft spot for helping others.

As a devout Buddhist, Mary consistently performed acts and offerings to achieve merit to reach Nirvana. She both loved and was dedicated to her family and community. Her favorite things include cooking, gardening, shopping, praying and spending time with others. She loved to laugh. Mary once thought that she was slicing meat onto a plate but was really placing it into the trash can. She looked down and laughed until she cried.

We will forever cherish and love Mary. Our lives are emptier without her conversation, smile and laughter. We have no doubt she’s achieved Nirvana. May her soul forever rest in peace.