Sompud Cotto (Ratsamee), 1969–2025, a free spirit

Sompud Cotto (Ratsamee), 56, of Waltham formerly of Billerica and Lowell passed away unexpectedly on Monday Aug. 25.

Born on April 14,1969, to Toom Ratsamee in Vientiane, Laos.

Som’s compassionate, caring, and independent nature has always been a source of inspiration to her children, family and friends. A mother with a vibrant personality and a smile that could light up any room she entered will be deeply missed.

Her ability to bring others together through her love of cooking food and seeing her family happy, would fill her heart with joy. She cherished and adored every moment she spent with her children and grandchildren.

We will miss her fierce independence and the way she lived life on her own terms while keeping her life lessons embedded in our hearts and minds.

Som was loved for who she was. Blessed with a wild and free spirit, being unapologetically herself with a huge heart.

Survived by her children, Joseph Chalernsouk and his Fiancé Gina Mizzoni, Luke Chalernsouk, Alex Chalernsouk, Gabrielle Cotto and Vanessa Cotto. Her adored grandchildren, Gianna, Joseph and Luka Chalernsouk. Her beloved mother, Toom Ratsamee, her brother, Boun Ratsamee and her sisters, Kham Manephon, Jan Swanson and her husband Griffin Swanson. In addition, her nieces and nephews, Jennie Spikes, Theresa Kline, John Manephon, James Hunt, Alexander Ratsamee Winston and Jocelyn Concepcion. Numerous great nieces, nephews and dear friends.

Friends and family are respectfully invited to gather and remember the love and laughter Som shared with us all during visiting hours on Tuesday, Sept. 2, from 10 a.m. – noon in The Mary Catherine Chapel of Brasco and Sons Memorial Chapels, located 773 Moody St. in Waltham, MA. Parking attendants will be on duty.

A funeral service in celebration of Som’s life will begin at 12 noon. Burial will beheld at Mt. Feake Cemetery, located 203 Prospect Street Waltham, MA.

Those who wish to pay their respects to Som and her family but are unable to attend are welcome to sign the family’s guestbook at www.Brascofuneralhome.com

As an expression of sympathy, flowers are welcome.