Xiuhua He

Xiuhua He, a symbol of resilience, selflessness, and maternal warmth, passed away on November 11, 2023. Born on March 1, 1939, in the tranquil countryside of Sichuan, China, her life's journey was a testament to her incredible strength and unwavering love for her family. Her final days, surrounded by family and loved ones, brought to a close a life marked by profound strength and compassion.

Xiuhua's life story, from the rural landscapes of Sichuan to the bustling life in the United States, is a narrative of love, sacrifice, and enduring strength. She leaves behind a family – her children Luke Zhao, Yue Zhao, Jinyu Zhao, and her granddaughter Lauretta Zhao, along with her daughter-in-law Hong Zhao and Jingyan Yin – who will forever cherish her memory and the lessons she imparted. She was preceded in death by her husband, Wenbiao Zhao, in 2006.

During the Great Chinese Famine, in a time of immense hardship and scarcity, her character shone brilliantly. With her modest earnings, Xiuhua selflessly purchased food for her family, undertaking half-day treks to deliver sustenance to her parents and siblings. Tragically, her grandmother passed away during this period, sacrificing her share of food to ensure the survival of Xiuhua and her siblings.

Her education consisted of a two-month Adult Literacy Program at 16, but her intellectual prowess was notably evident in her ability to perform complex mental calculations effortlessly, a skill that distinguished her throughout her life.

Xiuhua met the love of her life, Wenbiao Zhao, during the difficult times of the Great Chinese Famine on a blind date. This meeting was marked by a simple yet profound gesture – Wenbiao brought a bun as a gift, a symbol of care in a time of scarcity. Despite the contrasts in their educational backgrounds – Xiuhua, with her two months of formal education, and Wenbiao, a child prodigy whose potential as an academic was curtailed by the era's turmoil – they fell in love at first sight. Together, they fostered a home filled with love, safety, and an emphasis on the transformative power of education. Their shared belief in the value of learning not only equipped their children with academic knowledge but also with a deep understanding of freedom, liberty, and democracy. This invaluable gift of education opened doors for their children to travel and settle across the world, particularly in the United States, symbolizing the far-reaching impact of their parental guidance.

Their move to the United States to care for their granddaughter Lauretta Zhao was a significant chapter in their lives, showcasing their adaptability and continued dedication to family. Xiuhua's nurturing spirit shone brightly. Later, she tenderly looked after Wenbiao during his battle with terminal lung cancer and also provided help during her daughter's prolonged recovery from a foot fracture.

Xiuhua's life may not have been marked by worldly accolades, but it was rich in spiritual and familial love. During her last years, she enjoyed daily car rides with her daughter, taking in scenic views including woods and busy malls crowded with people. She found joy in the everyday miracles, the laughter of her family, and the quiet moments of reflection and prayer.

As we remember Xiuhua He, we celebrate a life that was an extraordinary blend of simplicity and depth, hardship and love, intellect and emotion. Her unwavering commitment to her family's well-being and education are the chapters of a life story that continues to inspire and guide us. Xiuhua is resting in Heaven now. Loved ones should take comfort in the knowledge that we will see her and reunite with her again in our heavenly home.

The service can be seen at https://www.youtube.com/live/ayJIGUvla2A?si=mzbRANFJWrGMGA4V

Graveside Service can be seen at https://youtu.be/CfO_r-oUK3A