Pha Phouthavong was born in Laos on January 25, 1945. A man of few words, he always left a lasting impression with his beautiful smile. Embracing a simple life, he found joy in the small things and valued family above all. Pha loved living off the land, enjoying fishing, hunting, gardening, woodwork, and, in his later years, raising ducks.

Nicknamed "Nine Lives," he served as a military man during the Vietnam War, enduring great hardships and multiple injuries. Despite these challenges, he was one of the fortunate ones to immigrate to America in the late 1970s, where he built a life surrounded by friends and family from all over the country.

He was beloved by his wife of 29 years, Vone Souvanhly, was a devoted stepfather to Sin (Kate), Khamhoung (Bounsone), Phon (Jimmy), and Aimee (Nate). He was beloved by all his grandchildren, Thino, Madeline, Maria, Jaiden, Tony, Lylah, Tommy, Eli, and Mimi who participated in caring for him throughout his illness.

Joining the military at a young age, Pha carried his rich experiences into his new life in the U.S. He excelled in carpentry and took great pleasure in handcrafting fishing nets. Known for his kind heart, he never judged others and touched the lives of many with his gentle spirit.

Pha Phouthavong's legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Funeral Service for Pha will be Thursday, July 17, 2025 at 2 p.m. at the O.R. WOODYARD Co. South Chapel, 1346 S. High St. in Columbus, OH.