Pao Xiong

On April 4, 1972, Pao was born to Nhia Her Xiong and Mai Vang in Phou Mok (Phwv Mum), Laos. Following the aftermath of the Vietnam War, Pao immigrated to Fresno, CA with his family. It was there in Fresno some years later that he would meet and marry his wife, Nhia. Together, they raised five daughters: Jessica, Alicia, Brenda, Samantha, and Darlene.

In 1992, Pao and his family relocated to Crescent City, CA where he worked as an ESL teaching assistant with Del Norte Unified School District. Always an advocate for learning who stressed the importance of education, this position allowed him to play a role in the schooling of Hmong children within the community. Pao loved children, and the children loved him; even now, many of his previous students along with his nieces and nephews fondly remember him as “the cool uncle”. In 1998, Pao and his family made the decision to move across the country to join his mother and brother in North Carolina.

Pao enjoyed playing the guitar and singing– hobbies that several of his daughters grew up sharing with their dad. From blasting his Xanakee or Pov Thoj songs and singing along as a wake up call for his children on early Saturday mornings, to performances at Noj Tsiab celebrations, Pao was always eager to share his love of music with everyone.

Pao was predeceased by his parents, Nhia Her Xiong and Mai Vang; along with his brother, Neng Xiong. His surviving siblings include brothers Tong Kai Xiong, Nao Chue Xiong, WaPao Xiong, Lia Sher Xiong; and sisters Pa Xiong, and Mai Xiong.

His memory will be forever held in the hearts of his surviving family: his loving wife, Nhia Xiong; his (5) daughters and (3) son-in-laws, Jessica Xiong and Travis Lee, Alicia and Phillip Vang, Brenda Xiong, Samantha Xiong and Ku Moua, and Darlene Xiong; along with his grandchildren, Evan Lee, Josephine Lee, Leom Lee, Emalyn Lee, Ethan Lee, and Paisley Vang.

Pao’s viewing and funeral reception will be held Saturday, September 7, 2024 at Drum Funeral Home located at 940 29th Avenue NE, Hickory, NC 28601. Following an all-night vigil, Pao will be laid to rest at Catawba Memorial Park on Sunday, September 8, 2024.

Condolences may be sent to the Xiong family at www.drumfh-hickory.com.

Drum Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Xiong family.