Sophia Claire Mata's Obituary
In Loving Memory of Sophia Claire Mata
Sophia Claire Mata, beloved daughter, sister, granddaughter, niece, cousin, and friend, passed away peacefully on June 28, 2026, at the age of 18.
Born on February 26, 2008, in Frederick, Maryland, Sophia brought joy to everyone who knew her. She attended Butterfly Ridge Elementary School and West Frederick Middle School before continuing her education from home through Rock Creek School. Due to MELAS, Sophia always had an innocent, childlike spirit that made her truly one of a kind. She was known for her kind heart, beautiful smile, gentle spirit, strength, sense of humor, and love for others. She found happiness in all things Disney—especially her favorite princesses, Elsa and Moana—as well as TikTok, Roblox, dancing to her favorite songs, and shopping. Above all, Sophia had an immense love for God. Her presence filled every room with love, laughter, and light.
Sophia cherished her family more than anything. She shared a special bond with those closest to her and leaves behind countless memories that will forever be treasured. She dearly loved her mom, “Mommy”; her dad, “Dada”; her “Ate,” Jasmine (Tagalog for “big sister”); and her sister, Lily. She especially adored her nephew, Joel; her brother-in-law, Kevin; her nephew, Brooks; Mr. Todd; and her Uncle Henry.
Sophia is lovingly survived by her parents, Maria Marfori and James Mata; her sisters, Jasmine Mata-Valiente and Lily Mata; her brother-in-law, Kevin Valiente; her nephews, Joel Valiente and Brooks Valiente; her grandmothers, Natividad Marfori San Luis and Aurora Villarama; Mr. Todd; her uncle, Henry Marfori; Meschel; Lizelle; as well as her cousins, aunts, uncles, and many dear friends who will carry her memory in their hearts forever.
She was preceded in death by her grandfathers, Eduardo B. Marfori and Edgardo Mata.
Though her time with us was far too short, Sophia’s life was a beautiful reminder of love, courage, resilience, and unwavering faith. While our hearts are broken, we find comfort in knowing she is now at peace, free from pain and suffering, and embraced in the loving arms of the Lord.
Special Acknowledgment Our family would like to extend our deepest and most heartfelt gratitude to Sophia’s loving nurses—Hadijah Nakiyemba, Agnes Mpanja, Agnes Lubega, Annie Tukei, and Grace Mbaabu—who cared for Sophia as if she were their own. Your compassion, patience, and unwavering love brought comfort, joy, and dignity to her life, and your kindness will forever remain in our hearts. We also extend our appreciation to Sophia’s infusion nurses and hospice nurses for the compassionate care and support they provided throughout her journey. Thank you for treating Sophia with such gentleness, respect, and dignity.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the United Mitochondrial Disease Foundation, or that acts of kindness be performed in Sophia’s memory.
“He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the former things have passed away.” — Revelation 21:4
Forever loved. Forever missed. Forever in our hearts.
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