On Friday, August 6, 2021, Seung Rye Yoon (“Halmoni”), beloved grandmother and great grandmother, passed away in Salt Lake City at the age of 91. Halmoni was born on November 23, 1929 in Haenam, South Korea. In 1948, she married her beloved husband, Ilpyo Hong and six years later they welcomed their son, Sung Guan. At an early age, Halmoni learned the importance of a strong work ethic, self-sacrifice, persistence, and loving others unconditionally. These traits shone brightly throughout her life and were demonstrated in her resiliency as a single mother when she was widowed at age 27. Halmoni’s dedication to those she loved led her to move to the United States in 2002 to be a presence in the lives of her great grandchildren from infancy to adolescence.
Each day Halmoni devoted her life to her loved ones, including helping to raise her two granddaughters and three great grandsons. A faithful and kind woman, Halmoni always made time to pray earnestly for her family and their endeavors. Nothing brought her more joy than being the cheerleader for those around her. Her radiant smile brightened the many sporting events of her three great grandsons as she cheered loudly and brought luck and happiness to each occasion. After a successful day or big accomplishment, she was always ready to sing and dance, bringing smiles to everyone’s faces and making even the simplest of victories the most memorable.
Halmoni delighted in the opportunity to connect with those around her. Although her first language was Korean, no person could misunderstand the love she had for all who crossed her path. An avid gardener who found peace in the outdoors, Halmoni often displayed her love by sharing her harvest of lettuce and other vegetables with neighbors and friends. She also grew beautiful flowers that created an oasis in the yard where she loved to have family join her to enjoy the sunshine. These simple pleasures and the ability to improve the lives of others were the hallmarks of Halmoni’s life and what everyone will remember of her character.
Halmoni will be missed by all who were blessed to know her. Her brilliant smile, compassionate personality, and gardening hats will shine on in her absence here on earth as a reminder of the impact that one kind person with a beautiful soul can have on the world.
Halmoni is preceded in death by her husband Ilpyo and her son Sung Guan. She is survived by her granddaughter Solhee Hong Shelley and her husband Brian Shelley, her granddaughter Yoonhee Hong, and her great grandchildren Tyson, Jackson, and Austin Shelley.
A graveside memorial will be held at Larkin Sunset Lawn (2350 East 1300 South, Salt Lake City, UT 84108) on Saturday, August 14 at 11:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, her family asks that you show an act of kindness to a neighbor or friend by taking them fresh vegetables or a meal to share.
Grandma was the sweetest person I’ve ever met in my life. She would always have a smile on her face whenever I would see her. Grandma inspired me to be great every day by her example of hard work. She had a garden that she loved to work on and would spend hours on it. Wouldn’t be the person I am today if it was for her.
My condolences to the Shelley family.
We have been so impressed with the way your grandmother left Korea to dedicate herself to your family nearly twenty years ago. The impact she has had on you will be fondly remembered. She always radiated a special spirit of love and devotion to you. She loved your family so much! She was an example of the qualities that many of us strive for.
We pray that you will be comforted in this unexpected loss, knowing that she has been reunited with her family on the other side.
Much Love,
Julie and Jonathan