Remembering Zoe Stechell: A Star Softball Player and Beloved Daughter

Newark Redhawks Softball Star Zoe Stechell Passes Away at 18

Zoe leaves an enduring legacy filled with joy and unforgettable memories.

January 16, 2026

Last updated by Alisha Shrestha on January 16, 2026

Zoe Stechell, a standout softball player for the Newark Redhawks, tragically died on January 9, 2026, after a vehicle accident.

Her aspirations to become a nurse anesthetist inspired many.

Zoe Setchell’s passion for sports started with Taekwondo, leading to earning a black belt through sheer determination. At nine years old, she discovered softball and became deeply committed to the Newark Redhawks Travel Softball Organization.

Her time with the team fostered strong bonds and personal growth, guided by her mentor, Coach Zeke.

Zoe admired her coach greatly, whose influence shaped her character and ambitions.

After graduating from Yorkville High School, she began college at Waubonsee Community College, planning to attend the University of Illinois at Chicago to pursue a career as a nurse anesthetist.

Our hearts are heavy with grief over Zoe’s untimely passing, which has left an irreplaceable void in our family. Your love and support mean everything to us, Zoe. 🩷

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Family Mourns Deeply Over Loss of Zoe Setchell

Zoe perished due to injuries from a car crash at just 18 years old.

She was adored as a daughter, sister, granddaughter, niece, cousin, and friend.

Zoe Setchell, daughter of Shannon (Evans) and Mark Setchell, was born September 2, 2007, in Yorkville, Illinois.

Known for her radiant personality, distinctive fashion sense, and infectious laughter, Zoe brought light wherever she went. Her compassion, humor, and genuine warmth made her unforgettable.

She cherished animals and was surrounded by loving family—her parents Shannon and Mark, sisters Bailey Knapp, Delanie (Calvin) Barbee, and Natilee Setchell. Extended relatives included Aunt Andrea (Tim) Scott, Uncle Michael (Nina) Setchell, cousins Connor Scott, Alexandra, Henry, Lauren Setchell, niece Nora Jade Barbee, Grandma Gayle (Williams) Evans, and Grandparents Karen and Larry Setchell.

Sadly, she was preceded in death by grandfather Richard Evans and cousin Garrett Scott.

Zoe’s spirit continues to inspire everyone who knew her, living on in their memories and hearts.

In lieu of flowers, donations are encouraged for Renko Animal Rescue in Yorkville and the Newark Redhawks organization. A scholarship fund for Yorkville High School graduates entering Waubonsee’s Nursing Program has also been established.

My sister Zoe’s passing shocked us all. To honor her memory, we launched a fundraiser supporting scholarships and charities dear to her heart. Every contribution makes a difference. Thank you. 🩷

The Setchell family invites you to join them at a visitation from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Friday, January 16, 2026, at Turner-Eighner Funeral Home in Plano, Illinois. A celebration of life will follow at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, January 17, 2026, at the same venue.

May Zoe’s gentle spirit find peace and happiness beyond this world.