Savannah M. Encke

Life is unpredictable, and sometimes it takes a tragic turn that leaves us in shock and heartbreak. On January 5, 2025, Savannah Monique Encke, a vibrant 21-year-old woman with dreams and aspirations, was taken from this world far too soon—a day that should have been spent celebrating her uncle’s birthday, not mourning her loss. Savannah’s life was a story of promise, potential, and love—a reminder of life’s fragility and the profound impact one person can have on those around them.

Born on March 14, 2003, in Murrieta, California, Savannah was the cherished daughter of Felicia Banks and Peter Encke Jr. As the only daughter and the third child in their union, she brought light and joy to her family. Savannah lived in various cities throughout her life, including Lake Elsinore, Hemet, San Jacinto, Union City, Georgia, and Calaveras County. For the past nine years, she called Highland, California, her home.

Savannah attended Indian Springs High School, where her talents in track and field and tennis were recognized, earning her multiple awards for her dedication and hard work. She later graduated from San Andreas High School. Savannah’s love for the arts shone brightly through her guitar playing, singing, drawing, crafting, and photography. She was also an avid reader and a video game enthusiast. Her deep love for animals was evident in the bond she shared with her ESA dog, Theo, as well as her turtles, fish, and cats. Savannah dreamed of one day becoming a veterinarian, a wife, and a mother—a future tragically cut short.

Savannah leaves behind a loving family who will forever cherish her memory. She is survived by her mother and stepfather, Felicia and Drumaine Banks; her father and stepmother, Peter and Arlietha Encke; her brothers, Aaron, Malik, Damarion, Nicholas, and Elijah Encke; her step-siblings, Drumaine, Jasmine, Daijha, and Shyla Banks; her nephews and niece, Osiris, Juno, Raylan, and Symphony Banks; her grandparents, Vikkie and Tommy Melton, and Peter and Marilynn Encke; as well as a host of adoring uncles, aunts, cousins, other family members, and friends.

Savannah is preceded in death by her great-grandmother, Evelyn Hayes Edwards; her grandfather, Reginald Burton France; her uncle, Alex Thomas; and many more beloved family members and friends who are not forgotten.

Savannah’s family was her greatest source of love and strength. She shared a special bond with her siblings, who looked up to her, and created joyful memories with her uncles, cousins, and extended family. Her presence brought warmth to every gathering, and her radiant smile lit up every room. Her life, though tragically brief, reminds us all of the importance of love, family, and cherishing every moment we have together.

In the quiet moments, her laughter still echoes, and her bright smile lingers in our hearts. Let us take a moment of silence to honor Savannah and the loved ones who have passed before her. Though she is no longer with us, her memory will continue to inspire us to hold our families close and live each day with love and purpose.

To honor her memory, a funeral service for Savannah will be held Tuesday, January 28, 2025 from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM at Mt. View Mortuary & Cemetery, 570 East Highland Ave, San Bernardino, CA 92404, followed by a committal service from 12:45 PM to 1:30 PM.