Shannon Xu

During COVID, Shannon and I would go on what we called small adventures. They weren't extravagant or all that planned out, but they were ours. We would go on these day-long hikes in the forest preserves, bathing in the forest. She would always pause to point out the squirrels skittering up the trees or a bird bathing in the river. It was with her that I first gained my love for the outdoors, and that has never really left. When I look at the stars at night, I see Shannon. Infinite and all encompassing. When I look at the trees in a forest, I see Shannon. Whose soul and spirit forever stand strong. She gave me the gift of recognizing the beauty of the outdoors, and now I will always find her in it.

I remember her smile and lovely face when she would pick up my daughter Mariyah and I'll wavy to her and say thank you. She will truly be missed.

There are no words to convey how terrible this is. You are in my prayers Shannon You were such a beautiful person and I will never forget your energy and love towards everyone. I will miss you

Oh, Shannon. We love you. You have such a beautiful soul. Me and Emerson sat up talking about you most of last night. I wish we could have been there for you how you needed us. We will never, ever forget you and will smile every time Simba and Sasha run to each other, remembering all of the wonderful moments we had together. The last time I saw you we hugged hard and both had tears and now I wish I reached out more. Thank you for being a friend, thank you for caring about Emerson and Sasha, we were so blessed to know you.

Shannon is a great friend of my daughter, Enya. They met at the Chinese School when they were 7 years old. They have been friends ever since then. They had play dates, sleepovers, berry picking, beach trips, and just hanging out. Shannon was fun, talkative, smart, athletic, and always had a big smile on her face! We will always remember her!