ForeverMissed
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Our enitre Avon family is saddened by the loss of our dear friend and colleague, Xiaochun Luo, Chief Scientific Officer.  Her passion for science and innovation inspired us all.  Her commitment to the team she led and her warm friendship will be remembered forever.

November 16, 2023
November 16, 2023
She was the embodiment of what Avon used to stand for. A real leader with feelings, heart and vision. 
November 13, 2023
November 13, 2023
I still remember our chats in the hall
How you cared for your employees. When we talked it was about our families and not work all the time. You were a friend. And I will remember how good you were to me always
Rest in heavenly peace
April 16, 2023
April 16, 2023
I think of the mornings we had chances to speak with each other. You were a wonderful person to me and I miss you I pray you rest in peace
November 12, 2022
November 12, 2022
Forever missed. Thinking of you on this day.
November 12, 2022
November 12, 2022
Thinking of you today and every day ❤️
April 18, 2022
April 18, 2022
I can't believe it has been so many years. Rest in Peace, you are missed.
April 16, 2022
April 16, 2022
Still thinking of you and missing you, continue to Rest in Peace my dear friend
November 14, 2021
November 14, 2021
Thinking of you today and always
November 12, 2021
November 12, 2021
Still missing you my friend, may you continue to rest in perfect peace
April 16, 2021
April 16, 2021
Xiaochun you are always in my heart rest my precious angel
vicki powell
April 16, 2021
April 16, 2021
Remembering you this day. Forever in our hearts.
April 16, 2020
April 16, 2020
Xiaochun Luo, I think of you so often, the wonderful memories that I personally have with you, were beautiful, as you were beautiful inside and out, rest my angel.


November 12, 2019
November 12, 2019
Remembering you today and everyday ❤️
November 12, 2019
November 12, 2019
Xiaochun's inspiration, legacy and "pure spirit" are still with us 5 years since her passing - helping guide us as individuals and as an R&D organization.
November 12, 2019
November 12, 2019
Xiaochun Luo, I think of you so often, the wonderful memories that I personally have with you, were beautiful, as you were beautiful inside and out, rest my angel.


April 16, 2019
April 16, 2019
Missing your warm smile and our afternoon chats
rest angel
April 16, 2019
April 16, 2019
Remebering you today on your birthday. I think of you often and reflect on all the great things you taught me.
Lisa
November 13, 2018
November 13, 2018
Remembering the sweet smile you always had, and the love of your family
bless your heavenly soul.
November 12, 2018
November 12, 2018
Remembering you today as I do everday and missing you as always.
April 16, 2018
April 16, 2018
Missing my dear friend, will always keep you in my heart
April 16, 2018
April 16, 2018
Thinking of you today and everyday. Remembering all that you taught me and how much I value that every day ❤️.
April 16, 2018
April 16, 2018
Remembering our lovely Xiaochun on her birthday....always missed.
November 13, 2017
November 13, 2017
3 years passed by and you are always remembered for your caring and love for this organisation and everyone. Prayers to you and your family
November 12, 2017
November 12, 2017
Thinking of you today and everyday and remembering everything that you taught me so I can do my best to respect your incredible legacy.
Lisa Gallo
November 12, 2017
November 12, 2017
Xioachun will always be in our thoughts and hearts.  She left such an amazing legacy in Avon R&D. She is truly missed.
November 12, 2017
November 12, 2017
Xiaochun today is 3 years since you are gone, I miss you, this is one f those days that I would be in your office telling you about the things going on in my life, you were such a wonderful, loving caring friend, you treated me like a friend, God bless you
April 16, 2017
April 16, 2017
Dear Xiaochun
We miss everyday in R&D . Your spirit and teaching are always guiding everyone. You will always be with us
April 16, 2017
April 16, 2017
Xiaochun has a special place in our hearts at Avon R&D in Suffern. Remembering her on this day that would have been her 60th birthday.
April 16, 2017
April 16, 2017
Missing you today and everyday. Always on my mind and in my heart.
April 16, 2017
April 16, 2017
Xiaochun you are truly missed, I think of you often, you may have been the big boss at Avon, but you treated me like I was truly your friend, I love the talks we would have about life, and family, I hope you are loving being in HEAVEN, hugs and love always
November 13, 2016
November 13, 2016
Xiaochun, you remain in our thoughts and hearts here at Avon. I will always remember your kindness, encouragement and friendship.
November 12, 2016
November 12, 2016
Xiaochun you will always be in my heart, I will never forget the kindness you showed to me, or the love you had in your eyes the day we talked about the earthquake in China, knowing you had family there, and the peace you had when you knew they were all well, God created in you a peaceful loving heart and you will be missed by me more than you will ever know.
November 12, 2016
November 12, 2016
Not a day goes by when I don't think of you. I was so privileged to have you as a boss and mentor. I am so fortunate to sit in the office you once sat in with so many great memories.
April 16, 2016
April 16, 2016
Remembering our lovely CSO and friend on her Birthday.  We think of her often in Avon R&D and are inspired by her innovative spirit and her warmth and humbleness.
April 16, 2016
April 16, 2016
Thinking of you and missing you today and always.
February 29, 2016
February 29, 2016
Always remembered as how you encouraged and inspired us.
You are truly missed. Miss your excitement in the status meeting when my team shared a new formula or an idea. Today is yet another day in our heart forever.
November 12, 2015
November 12, 2015
Not a day goes by when I don't think of you or something you have taught me. I feel so fortunate to have had you in my life and I am so lucky that I get to sit in the office where you used to sit. It inspires me everyday. Missing you,
Lisa
November 12, 2015
November 12, 2015
Today I keep Xiaochun"s spirit in my prayers, she is still so deeply missed, wow I still can't believe that she is gone, but I will always remember her smiling face, the wonderful talks we had and the hugs at the end of the day. Bless you, you are always in my heart.
April 16, 2015
April 16, 2015
Thinking of you today on your birthday. Missing you especially today and always.
November 19, 2014
November 19, 2014
It is with deepest sorrow that we all mourn the loss of Xiaochun. She was a remarkable woman both personally and professionally. She saw the best in everyone and generously gave her time to mentor and help others achieve their dreams. She was a visionary and caring leader who made a difference in the world.

She was a dear friend to me and I will cherish the many wonderful memories I have of Xiaochun. She has left a strong legacy in R&D with her many achievements and inspirational leadership. Her vibrant spirit will live on in our hearts but she will be greatly missed. My prayers are with her dear family who were always in her thoughts. My she rest in peace.
November 18, 2014
November 18, 2014
Xiaochun was a good friend to me, she was my boss but she never let that title stand in the way of our afternoon chats, she was so warm, loving and caring, I remember when that terrible storm was in China and we were in the hallway talking about it, and she asked me to pray for her family that were over there, and I did, to me she was one very special person and I will never forget her, may her soul rest in peace.
November 16, 2014
November 16, 2014
Xiaochun was a brilliant scientist and visionary innovation leader. She led Avon to deliver many industry-first, superior technologies. She taught us to strive to give consumers benefits they never imagined -- to blaze new trails, instead of playing in competitive strongholds. She challenged us through insightful questions, and always with a humility and belief that others were smart (she would say smarter than herself – but we knew better). She believed in us and that makes us want to work so hard to never let her down. Her track record of award-winning new products speaks for itself, and she was quick to give her teams the credit.

Beyond her technology leadership, Xiaochun showered us with her wisdom. She patiently helped me understand that we have two ears and one mouth for a reason. “Others are smart” meant to try first to understand why they may have a different – and valid - point of view, when I couldn’t imagine why my persuasive arguments weren’t making any headway. She taught us much about collaboration and true teamwork. She said she really wanted R&D leaders to be a true team. And then she role modeled that on every occasion together afterward, deeply listening to all points of view, encouraging everyone to contribute and respecting all.

Xiaochun compassionately led us through some difficult times for our business, including three rounds of downsizing. She shouldered as much of the burden herself as long as she could, but involved us where needed to make difficult headcount decisions. She taught us by example how to wear a “big hat” where the organization’s greater good came before any of our own interests. This credibility, her strong influence skills and the quiet resolve she had when wearing her red dress for budget discussions earned her the ultimate compliment from our CFO Kimberly, who entitled her “Toughest Budget Negotiator” in the company.

Above all else, Xiaochun’s compassion leaves the strongest imprint on Avon and on each and every person she touched. During those tough headcount reduction exercises, more than once we found Xiaochun crying over spreadsheets late at night in her office. She cared for each and every R&D associate with the compassion of a big sister, and worked tirelessly to find the right fit somewhere in the organization wherever possible. She always made the tough decisions the business required, but all impacted – and all who remained - were comforted by her care and concern.

I wish I had words to convey to you the deep love and admiration all in R&D and across the company have for Xiaochun. Walking through labs and offices over the past few days, we’ve been so deeply touched by the stories each colleague has to share. The chemist she recognized as new in the lab, and quietly asked a co-worker his name so she could introduce herself and welcome him. The associate she sent home from an important meeting at work so she could see her second grader give a performance in a school play. The two associates on their way to the Avon holiday party she hosted at Mt. Fuji, who were dancing in their parked car to music when she tapped on the window and started dancing with them. So authentic, so humble, connecting with all as equals, as a sister, as a friend.

Xiaochun described Avon as a special place, and a company with a “big heart”. There is no one that better exemplifies all that is good with our culture and no one with a bigger heart. We will try our best to honor her legacy and keep this compassion alive. There has been an outpouring of grief over the past several days, but co-workers have also been bonding together and sharing so many fond and funny memories. We have been a comfort to each other, just as she had been to us.

We wish we could offer some small comfort to her family and friends who have suffered such a great loss. Wei, Byran and Brandon, thank you for sharing such a remarkable and caring woman with us. Please know she has been deeply respected and deeply loved. She has touched our hearts and left each of us better in some way. We are eternally grateful to have had the privilege to know her. Her spirit shines brightly and lives on.
November 15, 2014
November 15, 2014
I am greatly saddened and shocked by this tragic news. Xiaochun is one of my most talented and accomplished classmates of 1977 from Sichuan Agricultural University. May her soul rest peacefully in heaven! She will be with us forever. 安息吧, 我的同学和朋友!
November 15, 2014
November 15, 2014
Dear Xiaochun,

It was nice to see you in my dream last night when I heard about your passing. You told me you are happy and peaceful. I am glad.

We had many fun times together both professionally and personally. Thank you for being my boss, my mentor, my cheer leader and my friend. You will be forever cherished.

I have told Wei, Byron and Brandon to reach out any time as I am part of your friends and family. Rest in Peace as you told me you are!

Love you always

xo, Ginger
November 15, 2014
November 15, 2014
I am shocked by the loss of Xiaochun. She was a kind, caring and wonderful person. She was a great leader and never forgot to remember the people around her. She will be missed. God bless her and all of her family.

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Recent Tributes
November 16, 2023
November 16, 2023
She was the embodiment of what Avon used to stand for. A real leader with feelings, heart and vision. 
November 13, 2023
November 13, 2023
I still remember our chats in the hall
How you cared for your employees. When we talked it was about our families and not work all the time. You were a friend. And I will remember how good you were to me always
Rest in heavenly peace
Recent stories

Memories of Xioachun

April 14, 2015

When I think of Xiaochun, I think of a passionate and courageous innovation leader who was a true scientist at heart. 

Xiaochun believed that only through science and technology we can open new doors to transformational products that delight the consumer.  She always pushed the boundaries in order to bring consumers new benefits that they didn’t even know they needed.  One of the last formal meetings that I had with Xiaochun was to evaluate the use of a marine based delivery technology derived from sea anemones to increase skincare efficacy.  Most scientists may only see the barriers and constraints, but Xiaochun was excited about the possibilities and potential.  In our last e-mail exchange regarding this inocyte technology she wrote:
A reason that I push the discussions with the companies like this is to have ourselves more open to different ideas, and get more stimuli from the outside.  Exposure to seemly crazy ideas can trigger novel thoughts.

When working in the fuzzy front end, she understood and accepted the risks of failure and the need for trial and error, - otherwise, we were being too safe and would never find the next big thing.

She was kind, patient and gentle, but that never stopped her from pushing her people to look beyond the obvious as we ventured into the often uncertain world of research and development.  She challenged us by insightful questions and genuine belief that we can crack the proverbial nut.  She always encouraged us to work smarter rather than just harder.  I remember her description of the “red and blue oceans” as an analogy of where we should compete.  Instead of trying to compete with bigger and stronger competitors in the red ocean, where they already have a stronghold, look for the blue ocean, where it is not yet stained with blood by fierce competition.  She explained that we should find novel areas and benefits that can establish Avon’s competitive advantage.  It’s no surprise that under her leadership we discovered and launched many award-winning and first to market innovations such as Magix, Lotus Shield and the many amazing breakthroughs under the Anew skincare brand.

All that aside, some of my fondest memories of Xiaochun were the informal brainstorms we’ve had.  As she walks through the labs, she would often ask, always with a smile, what was the most exciting thing I was working on at the time and she would light up as I explained.  If I had a sample nearby, she couldn’t stop herself from playing with it and after a round of questions, she would say, “got it;” and then immediately launch to brainstorm mode, rattling off ideas of how to use the technology to bring new benefits to the consumer.  I also remember the many project updates that would often run over the allotted time because she just loved digging into the nitty gritty of the science and its applications.

I will miss my interactions with Xiaochun and her genuine love for science. Her probing questions, animated stories and lessons will remain vivid in my memories. 

Xiaochun, you will be sorely missed as a great leader, nurturing mentor and caring friend.

Sincerely,
Bing 

A note from our business partner Sodexo

November 19, 2014

From: Martino, Joanne [mailto:Joanne.Martino@sodexo.com]
Sent: Wednesday, November 19, 2014 2:56 PM
To: David Siegel/SUF/US; Robert Kalafsky/SUF/US
Subject: RE: Thanks!

 

Hi Dave, Hi Rob, 

Thank you for sharing. 

I know it has been a very difficult week for everyone at Avon. 

I have not been able to get to you in person, (I have spoken to Steve Toth daily) but know our thoughts and prayers go out to everyone in the Avon organization. 

Xiaochun will be greatly missed with our team as well.  We have made a donation to the American Cancer Society in her name. 

I hope to be in on Friday at some time. 

Thanks,

Joanne

My tribute to Xiaochun

November 19, 2014

I was truly honored and humbled to speak about Xiaochun at her memorial service.I worked with Xiaochun for the last 15 years at Avon but had the good fortune to report directly to her for 7 of those 15 years.  Xiaochun took me under her wings as I was put in a new leadership role that I knew absolutely nothing about.  We became very close during those 7 years and she taught me so much.  She was a brilliant, creative scientist who taught us all how to be our best.  She never ever told us what to do but helped us to get their on our own.  She had patience beyond anyone I have ever known, never loosing her temper no matter how difficult the situation got.  She always made everyone feel their worth and taught us how to respect each other.  Xiaochun never tolerated disrespect to anyone.  She taught us to never let work get in the way of our family. In our updates, everytime the phone would ring she would check to be sure that her husband or boys didn't need her.  If it was them calling she never hesitated to pick up the phone.

She was such a strong person, yet at the same time ever so gentle and caring.  I was recently in a bad accident and with all of her responsibility, she made it a priority to bring my family food and visit me often spending her precious time with me.  One of the things I will remember most was when she didn't think I was getting the right medication she told the nurses if they did not get me what I needed, she would go out and sit at the nurses station until they did.  I told the nurses she wasn't joking and of course they did what she wanted!

Her generiosity was exceptional in so many ways.  I used to compliment her on a necklace she used to wear and one day she gave it to me.  I will cherish this forever.  Xiaochun was so special to me and to others I could talk about her for hours but what I want everyone to know is that I am one of so many people she touched.  She had such a welcoming presence and everyone loved her.  She spoke to all associates regardless of their level and cared for us all.  She loved spending time at our Holiday parties and picnics and even more so loved to beat us in the games we would play.  She was the ultimate competitor. 

It is impossible for me to believe that I won't get to see and speak to her everday but I will feel her presence everyday in the amazing legacy she has left for us all.  Xiaochun, you will be forever in my heart.

Love always, Lisa Lamberty        
   

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