I was first shocked by her story. Just 26 years old, Zoe Grace Lucas of Lake in the Hills died at home fighting against the disease Mitochondrial Neurogastrointestinal Encephalomyopathy. Most people will never even hear such a word in their entire lifetime, and it was there for her to battle every single day.
In June of 2022, Zoe took to the internet to share the heartbreaking news of her diagnosis with MNGIE. She had poured her soul into everything she wrote. She said that she had kept silent while trying to understand everything and cope with hard symptoms. I kept going back to re-read her message because it showed the strength Zoe had, even in the scary times.
Zoe had always spoken highly of her family and how important they were to her. She often thanked her mom, whom she called her strength. You could feel that bond through her words. At such moments, my memory goes back to times in my life when my mother was there for me, even when I was lost in my own way. It’s interesting how family is everything in times of strife.
Illinois Community Mourns The Loss Of Zoe Grace Lucas
Born to Parents Sarah and Paul on the 15th day of January, 1999, in Evanston, Zoe was a real bundle of energy from childhood, doing gymnastics and cheerleading. She finished her schooling at Huntley High School in 2017.
After that, she pursued her great love: beauty and wellness, and therefore she joined the cosmetology program at Schaumburg Campus Cosmetology and Spa Academy. Almost straight out of that, she landed a job at Top-Notch salon and spa in late 2017. For some reason, the thought of a girl who knows what she wants and goes after it inspires me.
Apart from that, Zoe also enjoyed makeup, music, and wandering about. She attended so many concerts and stayed up late for the comfort show, Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives. I join her in watching that show late at night because it is food-giving and mellow.
Zoe loved her dogs, and it sounded like they loved her even more. They say pets can feel your emotions, and indeed, her dogs brought her happiness.
Zoe was kind: a daughter, sister, and friend. She leaves her mom, Sarah, dad, Paul, and her brothers, Zachery and Zane, along with other members of the family. She was also predeceased by her grandparents, Rebecca and Richard Paxton.
Her absence is deeply felt by all who have ever laid eyes on her. The brush of memory leaves thoughts of her strength, her fun spirit, and the light she brought into this world.
Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 PM on December 10, 2025, at DeFiore Funeral Home, 10763 Dundee Road, Huntley. The Funeral Mass will be held at St. Mary Catholic Church, 10307 Dundee Road, on Thursday, December 11, 2025, at 10 AM.
My thoughts honestly go out to the family and friends; it is so hard to lose a person, young and with so much life in so many. She would rest in peace.
Rest in peace, Zoe. You may also be interested in: A Heart Touching Story Of A Little Girl Going To Heaven While Her Parents Watch
