I thought of Rashell today and this is likely why--Happy Birthday my friend. I was reminded today that what matters is a life well lived, a life that brings love and joy to everyone. Rashell demonstrated that to me. Thinking of her today and always.

I cannot believe so much time has passed since we lost Rashell. She lived below us in our building on Bryant Street in the Mission and it was always a highlight of my day to bump into her -- her radiant smile, warmth and humor is missed and will always be remembered. Her too-short life is a reminder that every day is precious and not to be taken for granted.

Sending love to all those who love and miss her.

It is so amazing how one person continues to impact how I think and act. That is Rashell.  I sometimes model after her sheer bravery, such as starting the MBA program post-cancer. Sometimes I say "Heck" and plow forward. That's Rashell. 

And I often remember her laugh and smile. That runs very deep. I bet it does for everyone on this site. 

With big hugs to Betty and Buddy, Love M.

Thinking of Rashell often and especially on today!

I have wonderful memories of Rashell. She is my niece and I always felt incredibly close to her. She and my oldest son were born six days apart and had very enjoyable times together. I only have great thing to say about Rashell, so sweet, intelligent, understanding and loving. My heart always.

Forever thinking of you. I found myself reminiscing on advice you gave me over 16 years ago that I still give to others this day. It's these every day, practical reminders of you that makes me smile.

Rashell is forever in my heart and mind. I find myself catching glimpses of her spirit and kindness in others, and it brings back a flood of warm memories. I am a better person because she was in my life.

A friend of mine had a baby this morning and of course i immediately thought of you, Rashell! Miss you. Happy Birthday.

Happy Birthday, Rashell. I just had a major interview today here in the Bay Area, I know you were cheering me on from up above.

I never met Rashell, only heard wonderful stories from her family. Thanks to her, she let me dream! What an inspiration! I never thought I'd end up in the same city as her, I only wish she were here.

Forever missed is correct! I often think I see Rashell when I am out and about and though I know it is not her, I always have to take a double look. I miss my friend and her beautiful spirit.

Rashell just leaps out of these pages. How vivid she was! I can hear her still. Hello to all the extended family and friends who visit this site on Rashell's birthday. I know you miss her so much, as I do.

I loved and still love my niece so much. Even when she was a young girl she had a mind of her own and always did the right thing. The only time I remember her getting into trouble it was for riding the "Big Wheel" to fast. Other than that she was always the most wonderful young girl and woman. She will be missed tremendously by all of her family and friends. Missed, but Never Forgotten!

Rashell was such a wonderful young lady and is truly missed. The mention of her name brings a smile to anyones' face who had the pleasure of meeting her. My cousin will truly remain in my heart always.

I miss you, Rashell. You were a phenomenal woman in every way.

I can be driving down a street and suddenly, out of nowhere, Rashell will flash into my mind. I feel her courage and think about how she dealt with what life handed her. I see her smile. I feel her wholeness. Then I burst into tears. She remains so real.

Betty, Buddy and Chris -- I think of you too, especially today. 

With all my heart, Martha

I was just thinking of Rashell last night and woke up to the reminder that today was her birthday. My dear friend . . . she is truly missed. Until we meet again.

Missing good times over good food with a dear friend. Happy birthday Rashell. 'Til we meet again.

Thinking of Rashell today, and glad that the Fellowship in her memory is going strong.

Not a day goes by that we do not remember Rashell and feel a shock of sadness at her passing.

Rashell, I miss you so much! My second son will be born in 2 weeks. I want you to meet my sons! I miss our 8 years of living together and all of the memories. I bought lots of our favorite wine for the holidays, Arrowood - you would be so proud of the deal I got! Remember when we bought our first case of wine together? I think about you every day. You are missed and loved.

Can't believe it's a year already. Rashell remains alive in my mind. And missed.

Rashell and I spoke not so very long ago about my coming to San Francisco to visit her and spend some time. As usual she was so gracious in extending the invitation never once mentioning what she was going through. The fact that I will not get to see Rashell in San Francisco saddens me greatly but I know that one day I will see her again in Heaven. Rashell, your memory lives on. Your Cousin Janie.

My wife (Maxine) and I never met Rashell, but knew of her through her parents (James and Betty). Our hearts and prayers go out to the Young Family. We believe there is a special place in Heaven for this wonderful, young lady.
Ray Littlejohn

I visited Rashell last year, and droned on and on about sipping a Bacon Maple Latte. I was exhausted at the end of our weekend, but she insisted I get the latte, and even went as far as going to her house to get her grinder when we found out the one at Pirate Cat Cafe was broken! All that for me, and a drink she thought was totally weird (and she was right)! She never gave up.

A client, Lynn Rambo, added this:

Rashell was truly a remarkable woman. Indeed she had a rare and beautiful spark about her, and was a pleasure to have known and worked with.

Rashell was a no-nonsense lady, someone you don’t mess around with. But she also had a warm smile and a compassionate heart, endearing traits that I will truly miss. At work, we were a team; she provided me with support where gaps existed. Up to the end, she was courageous and brave, and funny at the same time. I will miss her laughs and our talks regarding the latest restaurants she visited. I am grateful for having known her and continue to hold her spirit in love and in the light.

My heart is filled with saddness at the passing of Rashell. She was such an amazing woman; so full of warmth, passion, and joy. She was one of those rare individuals that I knew I could always count on. I remember calling her one day and asking if I caught her at a bad time. "No; I'm just waiting for my chemo" she said casually. That was Rashell - taking life as it came and always with a smile.

Rashell's laugh. You all remember Rashell's laugh? With her laugh, Rashell could make you feel funny, lighten spirits and remind us that we're happy. I am happier having known her, despite how sad I am today.

How can I begin to put into words how truly special Rashell was? Fortunately, most everyone reading this tribute will have known her, so you know exactly what I mean. The first word that comes to mind when I think of Rashell is LUMINOUS. She simply glowed! She was so filled with a beautiful light, and everyone she touched was made better simply for having known her. What a spirit!

Rashell-I just can't stop thinking about you. It is so fitting that writing about your extraordinarily bright spirit lights a candle here. From head to toe & every accessory in between, you are a rainbow of life-your smile so radiant & warm. God bless you, Rashell. May He hold you & your family close. Please pray for us. 'O LORD, you light my lamp. My God turns my darkness into light' Psalm 18:28

Rashell was my role model. She was the most fun, chic, sensible, well-balanced person I have ever met. She was the calm voice of reason when I had work or personal concerns and she taught me to live life to the fullest. I am a better person because of her influence and I will always be grateful to her.

The first time I met Rashell she was smart, funny, full of joy.... and wearing a funky velvet hat to hide the effects of her chemotherapy. No matter how much she endured, she always had a smile, a kind word, and her ever-present optimism.

Two colleagues, Sam Renwick and Steve Kam, respectively:

"I always enjoyed working with Rashell and she was always such an uplifting and spirited person. Such a tragedy that it's such a good one that has been taken from us"


"She was very, very courageous and set an example of self confidence for each one of us. She was not boastful or prideful, and we all are better for having known her.