Sierra Gail Borland, known affectionately as Sierra to all who knew her, embraced life with a vibrant spirit that was as radiant as a star in the night sky. Born on March 1st, 2010, in Bakersfield, California, Sierra’s journey was one marked by boundless enthusiasm and an innate ability to find joy in every moment. On September 21st, 2024, she concluded her chapter on this earth in Rapid City, South Dakota, leaving behind a legacy of love and creativity that will forever be etched in the hearts of those who had the pleasure of knowing her.
Sierra’s family was the cornerstone of her world. She was a cherished daughter to Robert and Lisa Borland, and an inspiring sister to Andrew, his wife Alayna, Benjamin, and Daniel. Her relationships with each of them were built on a foundation of mutual admiration and deep affection. Sierra’s thoughtful nature and intelligence shone brightly in her interactions with her family, strengthening their bond with each passing day.
In her academic pursuits, Sierra demonstrated an exceptional level of intelligence and curiosity. She completed the 8th grade at East Middle School in Rapid City, South Dakota, where her teachers and classmates recognized her for her creativity and her thoughtful contributions to every discussion. Sierra’s quest for knowledge was just one of the many ways she expressed her zest for life.
Sierra’s interests were a colorful tapestry of creative endeavors. She loved to paint, her canvas blossoming with the vivid hues of her imagination. Lego bricks became the building blocks of her dreams, each structure a testament to her innovation and determination. Crafting and baking were activities that not only allowed Sierra to express her creativity but also to share her love with those around her through the work of her hands. The joy of singing and dancing was another of Sierra’s passions, filling her home with melodies and laughter. And when it came to board games, Sierra’s competitive spirit was always in good fun, challenging everyone to strive for their best.In every aspect of her life, Sierra embodied the qualities of someone truly special. She was thoughtful, always considering the feelings and needs of others. Her intelligence was not merely academic, but also emotional, understanding the world around her with a wisdom beyond her years. Creativity flowed through Sierra like a river, touching everything she did with originality and flair.
As a motivational speaker might say, Sierra’s life, though brief, was a powerful reminder that the quality of our time on this earth is not measured in years, but in the depth of our experiences and the love we share. In the words of the renowned poet Maya Angelou, “My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style.” Sierra lived these words every day, her passion evident in her art, her compassion in her relationships, her humor in her play, and her style in her very essence.To have known Sierra was to have known a young soul who truly thrived, who took the ordinary and turned it into something extraordinary. Her life was a vivid reminder to all of us to live with intention, to embrace our creativity, and to love without reserve. Sierra Gail Borland’s legacy is a tapestry woven with threads of joy, art, and the brilliance of a life lived fully, if not for a long time. Her memory will continue to inspire, to motivate, and to remind us that every day is a canvas waiting to be painted with the colors of our spirit. Sierra has not left us; she has simply moved on to paint in skies where every sunrise and sunset will reflect the beauty she shared with the world.A funeral service will be Friday, October 4, 2024 at 11:00 AM with a visitation one hour prior at The church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 2250 Moon Meadows Drive, Rapid City, SD 57702.
Friends and family may sign the online guest register and leave written condolences at WestRiverFuneral.com.
Arrangements are under the direction of Dean Moncur at West River Funeral Directors, Rapid City, SD.
