Chapter 1: A California Sunrise (1972–1990)

Sarah Marie Thompson was born in Los Angeles, California, on a warm June morning in 1972. The only daughter of Elaine and Robert Thompson, she was raised in the San Fernando Valley in a home filled with warmth, faith, and integrity.

From an early age, Sarah showed a heart for others. She loved stories—especially those of strong, principled women—and was often found curled up with a book or offering to help someone in need. She played piano, sang in choir, and volunteered with her mother at local food drives.

Even as a child, Sarah had a quiet strength, a calm presence, and a sincere sense of purpose. She never sought praise, but her compassion and drive to make the world better were impossible to miss.

Chapter 2: Discovering Her Calling at UCLA (1990–1994)

Sarah attended UCLA, where she studied Business Administration with a concentration in nonprofit and community development. Her time on campus was marked by deep friendships, student activism, and her early steps into community service leadership.

She joined outreach programs that worked with underserved families in Los Angeles and co-founded a mentorship circle that connected young women across the university. Her professors described her as principled, focused, and unusually generous with her time.

It was at a university roundtable on ethical leadership where she met Marco Yannis. Their first conversation, sparked by a shared love of philosophy and service, quickly turned into something much deeper.

Chapter 3: A Marriage Rooted in Faith and Friendship (1997–2025)

Sarah and Marco were married in 1997 in a joyful ceremony at Bel Air Church, the place that would become their spiritual home. Surrounded by friends, family, and the sweeping hills of Los Angeles, they pledged themselves to a life of shared faith, service, and love.

The following year, they welcomed their daughter, Hera—a name chosen for its strength and history. Sarah poured herself into motherhood with grace, intention, and boundless love. She taught Hera not only to think critically, but to love boldly and live generously.

In her career, Sarah specialized in nonprofit strategy and consulting. She helped ministries, shelters, and grassroots organizations find clarity, purpose, and financial footing. Behind the scenes, she was often the architect of programs that changed lives.

Chapter 4: Bel Air Church – A Spiritual Home

For over two decades, Bel Air Church was more than just a place of worship for Sarah—it was family. She served in women’s ministries, helped lead small groups, and was instrumental in organizing community outreach events.

She loved the stillness of the sanctuary, the warmth of fellowship, and the mission of the church to serve both the heart and the city. Whether she was preparing meals for the homeless or mentoring young couples in marriage preparation, Sarah did it all with quiet humility.

She often reflected on Micah 6:8—“To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” That verse wasn’t just her favorite; it was how she lived.

Chapter 5: Through the Fire – Strength in Suffering

In 2014, Sarah was diagnosed with lung cancer. The news came as a shock—she had always been healthy, active, and full of energy. But from the very beginning, she faced her illness with a deep inner strength.

Though the treatments were hard, her spirit never wavered. She found peace in prayer, comfort in Scripture, and continued to encourage others even from her hospital bed. Friends would leave her room feeling lifted by her faith.

Marco never left her side, and Hera became her mother’s fiercest protector and most tender companion. In those final months, their home became a sanctuary—filled with music, prayer, memories, and deep love.

Sarah passed away in July 2017, with Marco and Hera beside her, holding her hands and praying softly.

Chapter 6: A Legacy That Lives On

Sarah’s impact will be felt for generations. She leaves behind a community transformed by her presence. Whether she was helping single mothers through financial mentorship or quietly paying someone’s utility bill without credit, her acts of love were always sincere and selfless.

She taught us that service doesn’t need applause. That love is in the details. That strength often wears the face of gentleness.

Chapter 7: A Light That Cannot Be Extinguished

Sarah is survived by her devoted husband, Marco Yannis, and their beloved daughter, Hera Yannis. She is remembered by all who walked beside her—friends, extended family, neighbors, and the Bel Air Church community she so deeply cherished.

Though we mourn her passing, we also celebrate a life fully lived—a life marked by purpose, generosity, and a quiet, radiant joy.

Final Words

"Well done, good and faithful servant."

Sarah, your love continues to light our path. Your voice remains in every kind act, every quiet prayer, every memory we carry forward.

You are missed deeply, but your presence lives on—in the hearts you healed, the lives you touched, and the family you loved so completely.