In Loving Memory of
Yan John Alier
April 13, 1990 – January 20, 2026
Yan John Alier was born on April 13, 1990, in Khartoum, Sudan. He was originally from Bor-Baidit, Angakuei, Hol, and was the beloved son of John Yen and Rebecca Beek.
In 1999, Yan came to the United States with his parents and siblings. Manchester became his home, where he lived until his passing on January 20, 2026.
Yan was a devoted family member and is survived by his father, three brothers and three sisters. He was a loving partner to Mrs. Cook and a proud father to his daughter, Rebecca. His lovely mother and baby sister have preceded his passing.
Yan received his education in Manchester, attending Beech Street Elementary School, Hillside Middle School, Central High School and later New England College.
He had a deep love for basketball. He enjoyed sports, music, literature and art. Yan cherished moments like going to church with his father, preparing dinner with his mother and helping to care for his siblings. He took joy and pride in helping his entire family, where ever he could. He was known for his warm and radiant smile, being a skilled writer, his kind heart and his ability to be diverse, becoming a friend to everyone.
Yan had a passion for the people and a deep sense of love for his community. He was known to some as "Preacher" because he was always mentoring, spreading a good word of peace, love, respect and humbleness. He was a man that people came to for help and he would always find a solution or a resource.
Yan also had a soft spot, not only for his own daughter and step son , but to any and every child he came across. The Boys and Girls Club, the parks and even substituting at the schools. Yan loved to learn and wanted nothing more but a bright future for all of the kids. He did his best to lead by example and always put his best foot forward. Teaching the kids that no matter how hard things get, they can stay strong and keep pressing forward; with hard work and determination.
With every amazing quality Yan possessed, we could never forget his bold sense of fashion. Pressed suits, bright colors, fancy prints, layers upon layers and a fresh haircut to top it off.
Yan had a personality that truly reflected his soul. A mixture of both loud and quiet, tough yet gentle, tender but firm. He was the life of any party he went to and his presence was felt by all. Everyone knew who Mr. Yan Leek was. He made everyone feel important, from big to small.
Yan’s life, though brief, was filled with love, faith and service to others. He showed the true definition of loyalty. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.
Calling hours will be held on Friday, February 6, 2026 from 4 to 7 pm at J.N. Boufford & Sons Funeral Home, 110 Bridge St.
A funeral mass will take place on Saturday, February 7, 2026 at 10 am in Grace Episcopal Church, Lowell St.
Committal prayers will follow in St. Augustin Cemetery, S. Beech St.
For more information and online guestbook please visit www.bouffordfuneral home.com.