Yang Xiangu

Yang Xianguo, born in 1925, was a Bai-ethnicity woman. Her family background was relatively modest. After her husband died early, she took on the family responsibilities alone, mainly supporting the household through farming and striving to ensure her children's education. She had four children in total, including her daughters Yang Liping and Yang Erchenamu, and two other children. In an era of material scarcity, she repeatedly emphasized honesty, diligence, and professional dedication, which had an important influence on her children's upbringing and education.

Details about Yang Xianguo’s formal education and specific academic background are not provided. She played a central role in the family, particularly in the education and development of her children. Reports say that in raising her family she stressed moral cultivation and advocated the principles of being honest as a person, diligent in work, and striving for excellence in one's art, leaving a lasting influence.

Regarding family relationships, in her earlier years she and her daughter Yang Liping had conflicts over Liping’s dance career and her choice not to have children. Over time, their relationship gradually improved. Yang Liping built a villa named “Xianguo Hermitage” for her mother on the shores of Erhai Lake, which became a symbol of their reconciliation. After Yang Xianguo’s death, Yang Liping publicly said that “the grievances dissolved with it,” and expressed deep longing for her mother.

In the early morning of May 27, 2024, at 6:42 a.m., Yang Xianguo passed away at the age of 89. Her daughter Yang Liping posted the obituary on social media, recalling her mother’s resilience and greatness and pledging to continue passing on her teachings. All four children jointly saw their mother off. Her youngest daughter and other relatives and friends, including dancer Yang Erchenamu, also expressed their mourning.

The news of Yang Xianguo’s death drew public attention to the educational values of artistic families. The family said they would continue to carry on her spiritual legacy and maintain a love of life. On May 29, 2024, Yang Liping confirmed on her personal social platform that her mother had passed away, saying she departed peacefully from the world she loved.