As the first Eritrean - American born in her family, Sara Mehari Tesfai entered the world on November 13, 1983, in Cincinnati, Ohio, to her parents, Mehari Tesfai and Letekidan Misghina.

Sara valued many things in life, but nothing more than her family. She was a sister to Saba, Semira, Helen, Awet, and Musse; an aunt to Weghata, Imani, Zodi, Levi, Noah, Gabriella and Izabella; a great-aunt to Hassan, Hamza, and Hamir; and a beloved niece and cousin to many in her extended family. Every year, the family looked forward to the Christmas gathering where Sara would always bring unique ideas.

To those who knew Sara, she was known to be funny, fierce, mischievous, a trendsetter, artistic, free-spirited, a music lover, and blessed with a beautiful singing voice. She was a star athlete who played softball, track, and varsity basketball as a freshman, with a feature in the local newspaper highlighting her talent. With her colorful personality, Cincinnati was too small — but Atlanta was perfect.

Sara found Atlanta to be special. She loved going to cookouts or spending Sundays at Piedmont Park with her friends and loved ones. Her passion showed in every role she took on — from her parents' home renovations to jewelry making, construction, and in the workplaces, where she cultivated meaningful friendships. With a love for the earth and all living things, she brought the beauty of nature indoors, filling her living spaces with a vibrant array of plants.

A rare soul —she embodied authenticity and inspired others to live in their truth.

"You are the light of the world….let your light shine before others."        Matthew 5:14-16

Funeral services at 9:00 am on Saturday,  November 15, 2025, at the St. Michael Eritrean Orthodox Church, 3637 Borden Street, Cincinnati, OH 45223.

She will be laid to rest at Spring Grove Cemetery, 4521 Spring Grove Avenue, Cincinnati, Ohio 45232.

Family and friends may gather after the interment at St. Ilija Macedonia Orthodox Church, 8465 Wuest Road, Cincinnati, Ohio 45247.

We invite you to take a few moments to share fond memories and words of comfort and condolence with the Tesfai family. Please click the "Tribute Wall" icon above and to the right, enter the information, and click "Save Post."

Walker Funeral Home and Crematory  is caring for the Tesfai family during this difficult time.  Please call 513.251.6200 or visit www.HerbWalker.com for additional information.