Un Sun Stafford passed away on Sunday, August 23, 2026, at McKnight Place Extended Care in St. Louis, Missouri, at the age of 92.

Born on June 2, 1934, in an undivided Korea, Un Sun was a daughter of Mok Sung Yun and Nam Yi (Cho) Yun. One of the youngest of nine children, Un Sun came of age during an extraordinary and often difficult period in her homeland’s history. She survived two wars and three occupations, experiences that helped shape the strength, determination, and resilience she carried throughout her life.

At a time when many young women were expected to marry rather than continue their education, Un Sun was given the opportunity to attend college. At the age of 34, a chance encounter with a friend led her to meet Arthur, the first man outside of her family she had ever met. A couple of years later, the two were married and began a new chapter together in the United States.

At 35 years old, pregnant and living in a new country whose language she did not yet speak, Un Sun faced her new life with courage and determination. She set about conquering the world around her in her own way, bringing love, joy, and care wherever she could. For many decades, she devoted herself to caring for her disabled child while working full-time and managing her household—a reflection of the tireless love and devotion that defined so much of her life.

In later years, Un Sun left the workforce to care for Arthur full-time as he battled cancer. Even while caring for her family, she continued to give of herself to others, volunteering at the senior center and finding ways to brighten the lives of those around her. At 65, retirement proved too quiet for her, and she returned to the workforce. She continued working until her own cancer diagnosis led her to retire at the age of 72.

Un Sun was rarely content to sit idle. She always found something to occupy her hands and mind. She loved gardening and eventually took over much of her yard with fresh vegetables and beautiful flowers. She also maintained an extensive collection of orchids, tending to them carefully each day. Whether through a meal, vegetables from her garden, a thoughtful gesture, or simply her presence, Un Sun made sure her family and friends were well fed, cared for, and loved.

Above all, Un Sun believed in bringing joy into the lives of others. Even near the end of her life, she spoke of the importance of spreading love and caring for those around you while finding your own joy and happiness in whatever you do. Her life was a testament to resilience, hard work, sacrifice, compassion, and the quiet but lasting difference one person can make through a lifetime of caring for others.

Un Sun is survived by her son, John Stafford and Marie; daughter, Edna Stafford-Loeffler and Jason; two grandchildren, Julian and Elise; and many other relatives and loved ones.

In lieu of flowers, Un Sun’s family asks that you honor her memory in the way she would have appreciated most: spend time with those you care about. Reach out to someone you have not spoken with in a while. Visit a senior center or nursing home. Offer kindness, companionship, and care—and bring a little joy into someone else’s life.

In doing so, Un Sun’s legacy of love will continue.