Sophia Iris Lynne Redleaf

Sophia Iris Lynne Redleaf, affectionately known as "Phi Phi" to her loved ones, passed away peacefully on February 27, 2025, in Troy, Alabama, after a valiant battle with cancer. Born on February 15, 2019, in Ames, Iowa, Sophia’s vibrant spirit and infectious smile brought joy to all who knew her during her six years of life.

Sophia was a beacon of love and laughter within her family. She was the cherished daughter of Emil Redleaf and Abigayle Hall, a beloved twin sister to Jackson Redleaf, and an adoring older sister to Addison Hall. Her doting grandparents, Dennis and Rachel Loyed ("MamMa and PapPa") provided her with endless love and support through every step of her life. Her Grandparents, Craig Redleaf, and DeAnna Cruz loved and cared for her as did her great-grandmother Teresa DeCory and great-grandmother, Artie Burkholder. Sophia was welcomed into heaven by her grandmother Dana Redleaf, great-grandfather Titus Burkholder, and great-grandmother Joyce Burkholder. She was also a treasured niece to her aunts and uncles—Sydney Hall, Joshua Santos, Colby Hall, Tyler Hall, Clarissa Redleaf, Storm Redleaf, Darren Redowl, Bryce DeCory, and Asa DeCory—and a loving cousin and friend to many.

From a young age, Sophia's aspirations were as boundless as her imagination. She expressed her dreams of becoming a doctor, a police officer, and even a mermaid. Despite her illness, she remained strong and optimistic, often visiting and uplifting others with her radiant smile. Her courage and resilience were evident to all who witnessed her journey through treatment, where she never failed to bring light and joy into the room.

Sophia's interests were as colorful and lively as her personality. She adored playing with her Barbie dolls, her art projects, Bratz, LOL dolls, and her American Girl Doll. Her favorite movie was "How the Grinch Stole Christmas," often watching it on repeat, and she reveled in the festivities of Christmas and Halloween. The beach was a place of delight for her, where she could bask in the sun and play in the sand. Sophia loved her trip to Disney World, provided by Magic Moments. She had a fondness for stickers and enjoyed engaging in games on her iPad, especially "Roblox”, which she often played with her cousins. Sophia's love for her cousins extended to frequent calls on her iPad, where they shared laughter and stories.

Quick to make friends, Sophia's loving nature made her adored by everyone she met, and she, in turn, loved them wholeheartedly. Her visits to Children’s of Alabama were filled with moments of friendship and cheer, as she easily made connections and became a source of inspiration to others. Sophia was truly a one-of-a-kind soul, a light in every room she entered. Her presence was magnetic—her kindness radiated, drawing people to her effortlessly. It wasn't just her laughter or her smile that made her unforgettable; it was the way she carried herself with such warmth and genuine care for others. When she walked in, the atmosphere seemed to shift, her energy brightening even the darkest of days. But there was something even more extraordinary about Sophia—the power of her voice. When she sang, she didn’t just sing; she poured her heart into every note, creating an experience that left everyone in awe. "Jesus Loves Me," a song that had always held a special place in her heart, became her personal anthem.

Sophia's imagination was boundless, and she approached life with a spirit that was nothing short of creative. Her bravery was remarkable, and her intelligence shone brightly. To describe Sophia as loving, spirited, and creative only begins to touch on the profound impact she had on those around her.

Sophia Iris Lynne Redleaf's legacy is one of love, joy, and the indomitable spirit of a child who faced life's challenges with a smile that could light up the darkest room. Her memory will forever be cherished by her loving family, friends, and all who were blessed to know her. As Sophia's life is celebrated, her spirit will continue to inspire and be a guiding light to all who remember her.