Haven, beloved daughter of Alex and Amber Soundy and cherished little sister of Maverick, was welcomed safely into the arms of Jesus on August 1st. Though her time on earth was brief, Haven's life was meaningful. She was created by God, known by name, and deeply loved from the very beginning.

Before Haven was ever held in their arms, she was held in the hearts of her family. Alex and Amber prayed for her daily, spoke her name, talked with her, and welcomed her into their family. She was their daughter, Maverick's baby sister, and a precious child of God. Her life was not defined by how long she was here, but by the truth that she was created and loved by God.

Psalm 139 reminds us of the way God knows each of us: "For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb... all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be." Haven's days were known by God. Her life was part of His story, and every moment with her was a gift.

Maverick welcomed Haven with the love and excitement of a big brother. He gave his baby sister kisses and made sure she was included in all family games and conversations. Quite often changing his voice and pretending to be Haven talking back to them. Maverick has a nickname for most people, and his sister was no different, earning the nickname "Havey-Wavey", for a reason that only a 2-year-old would know. Even before they met her, Haven was known and loved by her brother.

Amber treasured every moment she had with Haven. She celebrated every movement and every reminder of her daughter's life. Alex was really excited to be a "girl dad" and be Haven's protector and rock. Alex and Amber treasured the gift of being Haven's parents and the moments God gave them with their daughter.

While the ache of losing Haven is real, so is the hope that comes through Jesus. Her family grieves the moments they will not experience on this earth—seeing her smile, hearing her laugh, seeing her personality unfold, and celebrating the many life milestones and moments as a family. Yet, they find peace knowing that Haven is safe in the presence of her Savior.

Jesus said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these" (Matthew 19:14). Alex and Amber trust that Haven is now fully known, fully loved, and resting in the arms of Jesus.

The story of Haven does not end in loss. Because of Jesus, her family holds onto the promise of eternity and the hope that one day they will be reunited with her. Until then, they will carry both the ache of missing her and the joy of knowing that she belongs to God.

Haven's life was a gift. She was prayed for, named, welcomed, and loved. Though her time on earth was short, she has left a lasting imprint on her family and has reminded them of the goodness of God and the hope we have in Him.

Until we meet again, Haven.

Services will be held 10:00 AM Friday, August 7, 2026 at First Evangelical Free Church, 2601 W. 69th St., Sioux Falls, SD 57108, with a luncheon to follow. For those unable to attend, the church will be livestreaming the service here: www.youtube.com/live