“Love God, Love People. See Jesus Only.”

Sophia Yvette Kinney, 56, of Atlanta Georgia, passed away peacefully on August 13, 2025 with family by her side. A resident of Easley, South Carolina, Sophia’s life was one marked by unwavering faith, joyful service, and a deep, abiding love for people.

A 1986 graduate of Tamassee-Salem High School, Sophia went on to earn her associate’s degree from Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College (ABAC) in Tifton, GA. She began her career in computer technology but soon felt a deeper calling—one that led her to South Carolina and into a lifetime of service, advocacy, and ministry.

From 2000 to 2008, Sophia made a profound impact at Tamassee DAR School as a Teaching Parent and mentor, guiding and nurturing over 50 young girls in her care and touching countless others across the campus. Her passion for education and empowerment led her to Southern Wesleyan University, where she earned her Bachelor of Social Sciences in 2009. By 2011, she had earned a Master of Science in Psychology from University of Phoenix, all while working full time as a Therapeutic Support Specialist at Youth Adovate, Inc. She continued her mission to uplift and help her community through her 14-year tenure at SAFY of South Carolina, where she served in roles ranging from Case Manager to Treatment Director.

Sophia was not just a leader—she was a compassionate force with an impact on every life she touched.

Her joy extended far beyond her career. Sophia loved singing, dancing, and trips to the beach. Whether throwing surprise parties for her office staff, or joining a girls' night out, she knew how to have fun! From girl-talk to devotionals, she considered herself blessed to be doing life with her close friends, who became her sisters-in-Christ.

But her truest joy came from her relationship with Jesus Christ, whom she loved with all her heart. Her faith shaped her identity, her leadership, and her every word and action.

Sophia began her church ministry at Gospel Tabernacle as a secretary in Atlanta. Later, in South Carolina, she served as a life-group leader and sang in the choir as a devoted member of Redemption World Outreach Center. She went on to serve in the Worship and Arts Ministry and Media Ministry at Love Story Church. A beloved presence in her church, Sophia led women’s life groups and helped to create weekly lesson plans as part of The Writing Team. Her motto, “Love God, Love People,” wasn’t just something she said—it was how she lived.

She was a bright light, the life of the party, and a safe haven for many. Her laughter was infectious, her encouragement sincere, and her love fierce and genuine. She gave Jesus credit for every success and saw His hand in every aspect of her life.

Sophia is survived by her loving mother, Edith Kinney; her devoted sisters, Michelle Bryan and Tanya Adegboye; nieces Sarah, Elizabeth, and Simone; nephews Noah and Josiah; two great-nieces; spiritual daughters Krystal, Krystina, Tracey, and Patience; spiritual grandchildren Cason, Isaiah, Aria, Amelia, and Nicolas; and a wide family of former students and mentees who saw her as a mother-figure and friend.

A lifelong learner, she was always pursuing growth—earning certifications, attending trainings, and mentoring others to reach their potential. She leaves behind a legacy of transformation, faith, and fierce love—a legacy that will live on in every life she shaped and every heart she touched.

Jesus was her everything—and through Him, she accomplished all He asked of her with grace, faith, and His love.

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