Honor Buang Truong: Support Funeral Costs

Help Me Honor the Life and Legacy of My Beloved Mother, Buang Truong

Dear friends, family, and compassionate supporters,

My name is Elizabeth Costanza, and it is with a heavy heart that I share the passing of my beloved mother, Buang Truong. On Tuesday, October 15th, 2024, she peacefully left this world, leaving behind a legacy of resilience, love, and inspiration that touched countless lives.

Celebrating a Life of Courage and Compassion

Born on April 9th, 1940, in a small fishing village on the coast of Vietnam, my mother's early years were shaped by the uncertainties of war. At just 16, she and her family embarked on a harrowing journey to the United States, settling in Philadelphia. Despite the challenges of a new country and culture, she quickly learned English while helping her family run a small grocery store.

She became one of the few young Vietnamese women of her generation to attend college, studying sociology at Temple University. Drawn by the parallels between her own experiences and the civil rights movement, she became an active advocate for equality and justice.

In 1970, she married my father, Paul O’Brien, an Irish-American teacher who shared her passion for literature and social activism. They settled in Lancaster County, raising me and my siblings—Thomas and Anya—and opened a cherished local bookstore, Books and Beyond. The bookstore became a hub for community gatherings, intellectual discussions, and a safe haven for those seeking connection.

A Lasting Impact Through Words and Deeds

My mother was a gifted poet who wrote in both English and Vietnamese, capturing the complexities of displacement, identity, and belonging. Her first poetry collection, Whispers Between Two Worlds, touched the hearts of many and offered solace to fellow immigrants navigating their own journeys.

Even after the passing of my father in 2008, she remained a steadfast presence in the community. She dedicated her time to mentoring young immigrants and volunteering at local shelters, embodying her belief that "loss teaches us how to live."

Why I Need Your Help

I am raising funds to cover my mother's funeral expenses and to support the continuation of Books and Beyond, ensuring that her legacy of community, education, and compassion endures. Your generous contributions will help me honor her life in a manner befitting the incredible woman she was.

How You Can Support

Donate: Any amount, no matter how small, will make a significant difference.

Share: Please share this campaign with others who may wish to support or who were touched by my mother's life.

With Heartfelt Gratitude

I am profoundly grateful for your support during this difficult time. My mother believed deeply in the power of community and the connections that bind us. Let's come together to celebrate her life and ensure that her spirit continues to inspire others.

Thank you for your kindness and generosity.

With love and appreciation,

Elizabeth Costanza and the Truong-O'Brien Family