remembering our friend
Colleen Chao (Langley) was a beloved wife to Eddie Chao and a cherished mother to Jeremy, and lived in Meridian, Idaho, before Jesus called her Home on July 27, 2026, at the age of 50. Colleen wrote extensively about finding God’s goodness in the unexpected chapters of her life, including her journey through singleness, depression, chronic illness, and stage-four cancer.
Born on April 27, 1976 in Portland, OR to Greg and Nancy Langley, Colleen spent most of her early years growing up in southern California, alongside her siblings, David, Jonathan, Kathryn, Christopher, and Nathan. Colleen married the love of her life, Eddie Chao, and they eventually made their home in Meridian, where they raised their son, Jeremy. Colleen poured her heart into her family, creating a home filled with grace, compassion, and faith.
As an author and speaker, Colleen’s writing touched countless lives around the world. She was a frequent contributor to Revive Our Hearts and authored several published books, including In the Hands of a Fiercely Tender God, Out of the Shadow World, and On Our Way Home. Through her books and articles, she spoke candidly about suffering, ultimate hope, and finding peace in Christ, offering light to those navigating their own valleys.
Colleen is survived by her loving husband, Eddie Chao; her son, Jeremy; her parents, Greg and Nancy; her siblings, David, Jonathan, Kathryn, Christopher, and Nathan; and a vast community of extended family, friends, followers, and readers whose lives were transformed by her life.
A memorial service celebrating Colleen’s life and legacy is being held on August 15, 2026 in Boise, Idaho. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made through their church home, Table Rock, by going to https://tablerock.churchcenter.com/giving and choose “Chao Family Benevolence Fund”.
This website is hoped to be maintained through the generosity of supporters who believe in preserving Colleen’s ministry and message for years to come. As we look toward the future, your support helps ensure her work remains visible, accessible, and impactful even beyond her lifetime.
Please take a moment to share your memories of Colleen.