In Loving Memory of Dyna Sorto Malik

Dyna Guadalupe Sorto Malik, 73, of Houston, Texas, passed away tragically on September 1, 2026. Her loss has left an immeasurable void in the lives of her family, friends, and the many people who loved her.

Born on February 21, 1953, in San Salvador, El Salvador, to Geronimo and Maria Angelica Leticia Sorto, Dyna was one of four siblings. While Dyna came from humble beginnings, she never forgot where she came from. At 19, she immigrated to the United States. Dyna briefly lived in New York City, where she met her husband, Seni Malik, while they both worked in the Financial District. Shortly after they wed, Dyna and Seni moved to New Jersey, where they built their early family life and formed friendships that would last for decades. They later moved with their family to Houston, Texas, which Dyna called home for more than 40 years.

Dyna was a loving and deeply devoted wife. She and Seni shared a life together that spanned many decades, from their early days in New York and New Jersey to raising their family and building a home in Houston. Like any marriage that travels through the many seasons of life, theirs had its joys and challenges, but beneath it all was a deep and enduring love. They shared a history, a family, and a bond that always remained an important part of Dyna’s life.

Dyna had a long career in retail and fashion, working for Saks Fifth Avenue, Neiman Marcus, Bergdorf Goodman, and Zales. Her love of fashion remained with her throughout her life. Beautiful and elegant, she was always effortlessly put together, with a style that was uniquely her own.

Family was at the heart of Dyna’s life. She treasured being a mother and grandmother and was immensely proud of her family. She leaves behind her beloved daughters, Sadia Mazuelos (Michael) and Sophia Malik, and her cherished granddaughters, Liliana and Karissa Mazuelos. She also shared a special bond with her nephew John Sorto, whom she loved as a son. Dyna is also survived by her brothers, Leonel, Jamie, and Jose Orlando; her sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law; nieces, nephews, cousins; and many dear friends throughout the United States, El Salvador, and around the world. She was predeceased by her husband, Seni, and her parents.

Dyna’s Christian faith was an integral part of her life. She loved the Lord and sought to reflect her faith through kindness, compassion, generosity, and forgiveness. She believed deeply in giving grace, letting go of hurt, and continuing to love even when life was difficult. She opened her home and heart to others, supported people through challenging times, and remained resilient and hopeful through struggles of her own.

Dyna truly loved life and knew how to enjoy it. She loved music and dancing, travel, good food and wine, strong coffee, and spending time with family and friends. She also loved gardening and surrounded herself with plants the she lovingly tended to and cared for. At 73, Dyna was ageless. She remained remarkably healthy, active, and youthful, enjoying exercise, dancing, and always looking forward to her next adventure. At the time of her passing, her bags were packed for a European cruise she had been eagerly anticipating.

Dyna had a remarkable ability to connect with people. She made friends wherever she went and maintained friendships across decades and great distances. She remembered the little things, made people feel comfortable being themselves, and showed up when it mattered. Friends became family, and her infectious laugh, radiant smile, sense of humor, and joyful spirit made her someone people simply loved being around.

She also found humor in the ordinary. When Dyna once received a collection of coffees from around the world through Amazon without a gift note, she assumed Jeff Bezos had sent them to her for being such a good customer. It was quintessential Dyna—sweet, funny, and completely sincere.

Dyna would want those who loved her to live even more fully in her honor. She embraced life wholeheartedly and did not wait to be included. If there was a celebration, a trip, good music, good food, friends, or fun, Dyna found a way to be there.

Dyna left this world in a senseless and heartbreaking way, but that will never define her.

Dyna was pure love. She made people smile, lifted others up, offered grace and forgiveness, and brought joy wherever she went.

Perhaps the most meaningful way to honor Dyna is to live as she did: choose love and kindness.

Forgive. Make someone smile. Lift someone who needs it. Bring a little more light into the world.

That is how Dyna lived, and how her beautiful spirit will continue in all those fortunate enough to have known and loved her.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the GoFundMe to support the Malik family during this difficult time: https://gofund.me/be1f9a83a