Wallingford Teen Who 'Brought Joy To Everyone' Dies, Mourned By Community

WALLINGFORD, CT — The community is rallying around the family of a Wallingford resident who died last week at the age of 19.

Sophia Marie Pinto died Feb. 28 from complications of an asthma attack, according to her obituary.

Pinto had a “radiant smile that could brighten any room, a heart overflowing with love for her family and friends,” according to the obituary.

“She lived every moment to its fullest,” the obituary reads. “She brought joy to everyone she met, forging friendships wherever she went with her vibrant energy, boundless creativity, and infectious laugh.”

Pinto attended the National External Diploma Program at Wallingford Adult Education and was set to graduate in 2025, according to the obituary.

A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to help Pinto’s family with funeral expenses.

Pinto was a “vibrant and talented young woman,” according to a post on GoFundMe.

“She had a deep love of dancing and was most at home anywhere there was sand, salt, and sea,” the post reads. “Her old soul and caring personality led her to be an advocate for others. Her supportive and comforting nature made her truly special. Her innate inner and outer beauty and infectious smile were a delight to behold and she was a trendsetter in her circle.

“She showed her love with her goofy sense of humor and by cooking delicious meals for her loved ones. Sophia was incredibly bright, courageous, and bold and showed her inner strength in myriad ways.”

More than $10,000 has been raised within the first five days of the campaign.

For more information, or to make a donation, visit the GoFundMe page here.

Read the full obituary here.