The University of Central Arkansas community is mourning the tragic loss of Mandy Larios, a cherished student and member of Sigma Kappa sorority, who died following a fatal accident in Conway, Arkansas, on Saturday, April 20, 2024. Mandy, who had only begun her journey at the university last fall, made a profound impact on her peers and the broader community through her vibrant spirit and dedication to service.
Mandy was known for her radiant personality, lighting up every room she entered and deeply touching the lives of those around her. Her infectious smile and boundless enthusiasm for life made her a beloved figure among her friends and sorority sisters. Her commitment to living life to the fullest was evident in everything she did, from her academic pursuits to her social engagements.
From a young age, Mandy demonstrated a passion for sports and the arts. Having moved to Heber Springs at the age of three, she immersed herself in various athletic activities, with soccer being her first love. Her competitive spirit drove her to excel not only on the sports field, where she became a national champion, but also in her academic and artistic endeavors.
Mandy’s altruistic spirit was perhaps most notably reflected in her decision to become a registered organ donor, a testament to her selfless nature. This ultimate gift of life is a continuation of her legacy of giving, which she passionately embraced through her involvement with Sigma Kappa. At the university, she dedicated herself to various charitable causes, generously donating her time and talents to make a positive difference in the community.
The Sigma Kappa – Delta Tau chapter is set to honor Mandy with a memorial service on Thursday, April 25, from 6:30 to 8:00 PM at the amphitheater outside the Student Center. The event promises to be a heartfelt gathering of family, friends, and sorority sisters, all uniting to celebrate Mandy’s life and legacy. The sorority has extended an invitation to all who knew and loved Mandy to join in this tribute.
Further commemorating Mandy’s life, a visitation will be held on Friday, April 26, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at Family Funeral Service in Heber Springs, Arkansas. The funeral is scheduled for the following morning, Saturday, April 27, at 10:00 AM at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Conway, Arkansas. These services will offer additional opportunities for those touched by Mandy’s life to come together in mourning and remembrance.
In lieu of flowers, Mandy’s family has established a GoFundMe account to honor her memory and support causes she cared about. This initiative aims to continue Mandy’s legacy of generosity and impact by supporting charitable activities that were close to her heart.
As the University of Central Arkansas community confronts this profound loss, the memory of Mandy Larios remains a beacon of joy, kindness, and unwavering positivity. Her legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire and influence all who had the privilege of knowing her, as they remember a life marked by passion, empathy, and an unrelenting zest for life.
