In Loving Memory of

Xuerong Shi

November 2, 1960 - August 16, 2026

On Sunday, August 16, 2026, Xuerong “David” Shi, age 65, passed away after a sudden illness. He died peacefully, surrounded by family.

Xuerong was born on November 2, 1960 in Deqing, China. He was the second youngest of six. Growing up in rural China, he lived a hard life and helped his family out in the fields. When China restored college entrance exams in 1979, Xuerong passed and attended university where he received a bachelor’s in plant pathology. Excelling in college, he then earned a master’s degree in plant biochemistry.

In 1992, Xuerong immigrated to the United States to pursue a PhD in biology from CUNY Graduate Center. After earning his degree, Xuerong worked in many places including the Sloan Kettering Institute, OSI Pharmaceuticals, Yale University, the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, and finally, CARA of the 20th CBRNE Command.

Xuerong was smart, hardworking, and determined. He was a fighter in every sense of the word and never gave up, no matter what life put in his way. He was always looking ahead, always persevering, and always finding a way to keep moving forward. He continued working right up until the end, a reflection of the strength and dedication that defined him throughout his life.

He also loved to drive and had an incredible sense of direction. He could find his way just about anywhere, and getting behind the wheel was something he genuinely enjoyed. In his free time, he enjoyed playing poker, taking pictures, gardening, and listening to music. 

Above all, he was a provider and protector of his family. He worked hard to take care of them and his love was shown in the way he worked, provided, persevered, and was always there for his family.

Xuerong was preceded in death by his parents, Shi Xiang and Shi Baozhu, along with an unnamed older sibling and his second eldest brother, Shi Xueqiao.

He is survived by his wife, Zun Chen; his two children Jessica Shi and Eric Shi; his siblings Shi Guorong, Shi Xueqin, Shi Aiqin; and his many nieces and nephews.

A private ceremony will be held August 20 from 2PM to 3PM. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Care Entrusted to

Beltway Cremation Center

124 E. Diamond Avenue, Gaithersburg, MD 20877-5009

240-246-0400

www.BeltwayCremationCenter.com