Shao-Ying Somphone

Fang Shao-Ying was born in mainland China 76 years ago. “Shirley”, as she was known to friends, possessed an independent spirit, and true to her nature, upon graduating from university, emigrated alone from Taiwan to Australia, then the United States. Pat and Shirley met in Oregon, while both were students. While there, they met Lionel and other lifelong friends. Eventually, they settled in Las Vegas, where they ran a successful business with Pat’s sister, Chan-Op, and her husband, Van-Say. She raised two sons and eventually had five grandchildren (and counting).

Six years ago, Shirley was diagnosed with a recurrence of the breast cancer that had remained dormant for nearly three decades. She responded exceptionally well to treatment, and over the next five years, she and Pat traveled the world extensively, often with their close friends, Frank and Joy. At last count, they had visited every continent, except Antarctica, and more than 50 countries. Their last trip was just this past May. She recently celebrated Thanksgiving, which included her extended family from Oregon. This last gathering meant the world to her and allowed us to reflect upon our many blessings.

Shirley would often comment that the last few years of her life were filled with countless wonderful experiences. She felt fortunate to have lived a fuller life in a few vibrant years, than many others experience in a lifetime. She fought a valiant battle against her cancer and never allowed the disease to limit her zest for life. She wanted to relay to all her family and friends that she had absolutely no regrets. We especially want to thank our cousins, A-Joy and Buachin, for their unwavering support. Shirley passed peacefully surrounded by family and friends at home. She will be remembered as a loving, caring person, who always put others before herself. We sincerely appreciate all the outpouring of well wishes and love from family and friends.

Pat, Eugene and Alan