Taiwanese artist Big S (Xu Xiuan) passed away from pneumonia complicating influenza during a trip to Japan at the age of 48. Her ashes were returned to Taiwan on the 5th and went directly back to her home, sparking discussions about the possibility of her ashes being permanently kept in her luxury mansion. However, it is reported that this information was false, and Big S’s family will opt for a tree burial for her final resting place.
Following Big S’s sudden passing, Little S (Xu Xidi), her younger sister, through her manager, released a statement that there will not be a farewell ceremony held for Big S. A report published by “Mirror Weekly” claimed that her urn would be permanently placed at home, allowing Little S to see her sister every day and speak to her, thus avoiding Big S being left lonely in a columbarium. This revelation stirred differing opinions from both supporters and critics after it became public.
Despite the speculations and controversies, a source close to Big S’s family conveyed to “Apple Daily News” on February 7 that the idea of permanently keeping her ashes at home was inaccurate. The ashes are currently housed temporarily at home, as the family has applied for a tree burial with the Taipei City government. Soon, she will return to nature. It is suggested that the family has already chosen a spot for Big S’s eternal rest, as indicated on the Taipei City government’s website regarding the requirements for a tree burial application.
Regarding the decision for a tree burial, Little S disclosed through her manager that during family gatherings, there were often discussions on life and death. She remembered Big S expressing her wish for an eco-friendly tree burial if the circumstance arose. Little S shared, “We are in the process of applying for it now, and her ashes are temporarily placed in our warm home. Once approved, we will reunite my dear sister’s ashes with nature, as she desired.”
Ju Junye, who has maintained silence since Big S’s passing, finally spoke out on the 6th evening, promising to protect the legacy of Big S and leave it all to their mother. He personally escorted Big S’s ashes back to Taiwan on a special flight. A post on social media expressed, “On February 8, it marks the 3rd anniversary of the marriage between Big S and Ju Junye, also her thirtieth day memorial. Just the thought of it is heartbreaking, and one can only imagine Ju Junye’s emotions during this time.”