Rachelle Marie Sloan

On August 1, 1984, Rachelle Marie Sloan was born in Mesa, AZ. Before Rachelle was born, her mother, Lynette, wanted to name her Star, as she would be Lynette’s firstborn. However, at that time, their neighbor had a dog named Star. Lynette thought it would be odd to name her daughter Star because of the neighbor’s dog, not considering that they wouldn't live there forever. One day, Rachelle’s half-sister, Sherie, came home from school talking about one of her friends named Rachelle. Lynette thought, "What a beautiful name," and decided that would be her baby’s name—Rachelle. Her middle name, Marie, was chosen in honor of her great aunt, whom Lynette adored. 

Rachelle had three older half-siblings: Sherie, Patrick, and Elizabeth. Two years after Rachelle was born, she gained two full siblings, Melissa and Scott. When Rachelle was six years old, her dad was offered a job at Newmont, so her family moved to Elko, Nevada. Rachelle attended Mt. View, Elko Junior High, and Elko High School. During her time in junior high and high school, she was a member of the Honor Society. She also played in the band from 6th grade through 9th grade. 

Throughout Rachelle’s high school years, Lynette encouraged Rachelle to join the Forensic Team at Elko High School. Rachelle asked, "Why?" Lynette replied, "Because you like to debate, and you have a photographic memory." It wasn’t until her senior year that she joined. Rachelle went on to earn 2nd place in 2002 for Dramatic Interpretation in the State of Nevada Forensic Tournament. 

After graduating from high school in 2002, Rachelle joined the Air Force. Her first station was at Francis E. Warren Air Base in Cheyenne, WY, where she served as a dental technician. Although she enjoyed her job, she absolutely did not like the weather in Cheyenne. Rachelle had hoped to be stationed somewhere warm, as she had grown up in Elko and wanted to escape the cold weather. Three years later, she was transferred to Charleston Air Base in South Carolina. She was thrilled to be out of the cold and close to the beach. While serving as a dental tech, Rachelle also wrote articles for the air base. In 2006, she was named Airman of the Year. In 2007, she completed a four-month tour in Iraq, where she was trained in Force Protection. 

Tragically, on January 18, 2008, Rachelle died by suicide. Her family and friends' lives have been forever changed since her death. It is our hope and desire to break the stigma of not asking for help. 

If you are struggling, please ask for help. It’s okay not to be okay. Seeking help is a brave act. Call the suicide prevention hotline at 988 for assistance.

Rachelle Marie Sloan 08/01/1984 – 01/18/2008