The community of Boyne Lake, Alberta, is grieving the sudden loss of Shakoyiah Gladue, a 19-year-old young woman who passed away far too soon.
Her death has left family, friends, and community members heartbroken, with an outpouring of tributes flooding social media in her memory.
A Young Life Surrounded by Love
Shakoyiah was deeply connected to a large and loving family. She is survived by her parents, Will and Shelley McConnell, along with a wide circle of siblings, nieces, aunties, uncles, grandmothers, and cousins who all cherished her deeply.
Her biological parents, April Gladue and Virgil Jackson, as well as her kokum, Hilda Jackson, and mosum, Victor Jackson, also mourn her passing.
Her grandmother, Hilda Jackson, shared a deeply emotional tribute online, writing that Shakoyiah would be going home to join her sister Rosaleigh Jackson.
“You and your sister both have my heart with you,” she wrote, describing the unbearable pain of losing a second grandchild.
Her words captured what so many in the community felt — that Shakoyiah carried with her a piece of everyone who loved her.
Remembered for Her Smile and Spirit
Those who knew Shakoyiah remembered her as a bright, lively presence who left a lasting impression on everyone she met. A former teacher, Sarjenka Kuryliw, wrote that Shakoyiah had “a smile that lit up my classroom” and extended her sincerest condolences to all who loved her.
Friends remembered her love of cooking, karaoke, and making people laugh. One friend, Destiny Turner, recalled fond memories from school, trips, and shared moments at Smitty’s, calling her “my favorite chef.”
Another close friend, Tenika Christina Berland, wrote a heartfelt message remembering Shakoyiah’s big plans for the future, her infectious humor, and her love of candy. “You didn’t know it but you were loved, you really were,” she wrote.
She recalled always telling Shakoyiah to be safe before she walked out the door, and expressed deep sorrow at not being there when tragedy struck.
Her sister Reanna Gladue simply wrote, “Rest in peace baby sis,” while Mariah Gladue remembered growing up together and the many childhood memories they shared.
Funeral Arrangements
A wake for Shakoyiah will be held on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at McRae Hall in McRae, Alberta. The funeral service will follow on Thursday, June 4, 2026, also at 11:00 a.m. at McRae Hall, with cremation to follow.
Pallbearers will be Billy McConnell, Casey McConnell, Erik Sloan, Trenton Howse, Derek Gladue, and Levi Cardinal.
Shakoyiah Gladue was only 19 years old — a young woman with big dreams, a warm heart, and a spirit that touched everyone around her.
