Bloomington lost one of its special people when Sophia Travis died suddenly of a heart ailment on Wednesday, September 19.
Sophia, 46, had served on the Monroe County Council for four years and as president for one. She was running for the council again this year.
But that’s not what made Sophia special. A gifted musician and artist, she had an enthusiasm for life that was genuine, optimistic, and loving. When you met her on the street, you got a big hug and oftentimes a story—about a community concern she had, about her boy Finn, about whatever was on her mind.
Sophia was sweet, youthful, and full of energy and high spirits. She loved Monroe County and the people here. And all those who knew her, loved her back.
Our hearts go out to her husband Gregory, her son Finn, and all of her many friends.
These pictures were taken for the Bloom Magazine June/July 2012 Home and Garden issue by photographer Steve Raymer.
Sophia was such a kind person, big-hearted, funny, and of course a fine singer/song writer. Many people might not know what she did for the Monroe County Safe Place program (Safe Place provides over 100 locations in the community where kids can go to get help if they are in trouble, being abused, threatened, lost, etc.). Back in 2004 Sophia performed at the first fundraiser for Safe Place. The event was not terribly organized, wasn’t advertised well, and took place at the old Second Story. After the show Sophia and I talked about continuing with a benefit show every year. Sophia was so good at connecting people and bringing their talents together. She was the force behind the events that followed. Two heavily attended Safe Place concerts took place at The Waldron. Because of the large crowds we decided to rent The Buskirk-Chumley. Sophia brought in a wonderful line up of men and women from our own music community and from all over the world for these evenings of music and information about the youth serving program. She was able to turn a ragtag two hours into real happenings that took place the next three years. She did all this on her own time with energy, joy, and love. This is just one example of her generous spirit. I know others have their own stories of how Sophia connected with them as a citizen, an artist, a friend.
Thanks for telling this story, Dave.
2018 and this still hurts and I never knew her either.