Sofia Octavia Marks

Sofia Octavia Marks was born on March 25^th, 2005 to her parents, Megan and Gary Marks. Sofia was a kind, intelligent, and reflective young woman who possessed a clever wit and a big heart. She was deeply dedicated to her studies, her interests, and most of all, her beloved family, friends, and pets. 

When Sofia was nine, the Marks family welcomed little sister, Daphne. Sofia was an attentive and inclusive big sister, even into her teens, lovingly embracing her little sister as a valued member of her family. She was playful, patient and kind in setting a good example and Daphne loved and looked up to her big sis. Sofia would regularly develop creative games and activities to include, entertain and educate her little sister. Despite the age difference, the girls shared a close and unique relationship. 

Sofia was an excellent student and attended North Medford High School where she held a 4.0+ GPA. Throughout her life, she pursued a diverse variety of interests and talents: she was a talented musician who studied piano from the age of 8 and played the violin. As a high school student, she played with the NMHS concert and chamber orchestra. In her studies, she had a passion for math and science and was a member of the Stellar Explorers Astrophysics Team. Her love of swimming led her to compete with the NMHS swim team and volunteer as a junior lifeguard at Jackson Pool. And, in her free time, she loved to read, sew, create art, solve complex puzzles, watch movies, and spend time with family and friends.

Sofia and her family were avid travelers with travels throughout the U.S. and over ten countries. She loved exploring and experiencing new cultures, people, and places. As a life-long lover of animals, especially dogs, Sofia knew from an early age that she would one day be a veterinarian or a marine biologist. During one of her travels, she had the exciting opportunity to work with the veterinary team at the San Diego Zoo through the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

In October 2020, during the pandemic, Sofia was diagnosed with Ewing Sarcoma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer. For the next 2 ½ year, her courage, positive attitude, dedication, and warrior spirit enabled her to fight this disease with grace and hope. Whenever possible, she continued to live her life to the fullest, focusing on the joyful moments.

In the early morning of July 14^th, 2023, Sofia passed away, surrounded by the presence, love, and support of her parents. In her short 18 years, Sofia demonstrated more patience, perseverance, and acceptance than many of us do in a lifetime. Sofia was truly a hero to us all and she will forever be missed, loved, and adored by all those whose lives she deeply touched.

Sofia is survived by her parents, Gary and Megan Marks and younger sister, Daphne, her dog, Charlie, and her grandmother Shirley Marks along with many aunts, uncles, cousins, and close friends. She is preceded in death by Thelma Brown (great grandmother), Janet Brown (grandmother), James Marks (grandfather), and her beloved dog, Katie.

Memorial contributions may be sent to any one of the three valued organizations:

• Wildlife Images (www.wildlifeimages.org)
• Jackson County Friends of the Animal Shelter (www.fotas.org)
• Make-A-Wish Foundation (www.wish.org)

Memorial services will be held August 6^th, 2023 at 2:00pm at First Presbyterian Church at 85 S Holly St, Medford, OR.