Happy heavenly birthday sunshine! 

 Every time I see a bright beautiful bougainvillea blossoming, a cherry tree in full blossom or any flower that is bright and beautiful, I stop and just stare at it and think of you.  It reminds me your smile, kind heart, sweet voice and how beautiful you are inside and out. 

Rest easy 💞💐

Symone, as I am reminded that today is your birthday, I also think about how close we were to actually meeting in person.  We began following each other on Instagram I believe in 2020, and one of the things we bonded over was our love of music, particularly our shared love for Hiatus Kaiyote. We exchanged about how excited we were to see them perform at Smokin Grooves last year. We said we would keep each other posted once we bought our tickets. We weren't just excited to see them perform, but we were especially counting on them to perform our favorite song, "Stone or Lavender" off of their latest album. Shortly before the weekend of the concert, I learned that you departed in physical form, and I was in disbelief. I didn't understand. We were so close to meeting. I was glad that in our exchanges that I got to share with you just how dope I thought your contributions to the James Webb Space Telescope launch were, and to not downplay them. Not sure you realized how awesome you were or how much of an impact you made, but I do hope that you are at peace. 

"Who are they when they meet?/ Stone or Lavender/ Before the word is ever uttered/ Was your leap deeper?/ Show her clover and wildflowers/ When the soul is tired and needing/ Do noylt grieve the idle time/ Or all the moments that are ever leaving"

Whenever I hear this song, I think of you. Rest well, Symone 💜🙏🏾

Symone was a shining star that always made others smile with her warm and gentle presence. I was fortunate to have met her in person during the SWE conference in 2019. I remember she was quiet but kind, and she had a beautiful smile that could lite up a room. She was always so kind and so sweet, and everyone could tell she had the biggest heart. I am so, so sorry for your loss. I can’t imagine what you’re going through. Symone was a lovely human with a beautiful soul and she was taking way too early from this world. I know this won’t be much consolation but Heaven is already a brighter place with Symone’s spirit there. My thoughts and prayers are with all of Symone’s loved ones. ❤❤❤

Deepest Sympathy,

Stephen Ranaudo