I’m an atheist feeling a strong pull towards Islam

Assalamu alaikum everyone. I’ve been an atheist for a while and honestly pretty against organized religion, living here in the US. My family is kind of moderately religious Christian, and I used to be more into faith myself until life threw some curveballs and I drifted away. Lately though, I’ve been feeling a real pull towards Islam. I catch myself listening to nasheeds even at the gym lol. I’ve come to admire the modesty of hijab and the overall beauty I see in Islam. Muslims I’ve met have always been so kind and peaceful with me, even though I didn’t share their beliefs. Living in a diverse city, I’ve encountered Muslims from all walks of life and they’ve been truly wonderful people. Without even realizing it, I keep watching Islamic videos online. And with all the hardships I’ve faced, I find myself more open to the idea of faith now. But today was the tipping point. I don’t want to overshare, but someone dear to me just passed away suddenly in a tragic accident a couple hours ago. I’m heartbroken and don’t know what to do. The first thing I did was cry out to God, no joke. I need comfort imagining an afterlife and a higher power, and more than anything I want to find purpose through religion. I’ve researched many religions and I do think something greater exists, I’m just not sure what. Spiritually, Islam calls to me the most. Even when I was critical of religion, the words of the Quran moved me deeply. Please, I’d appreciate any guidance on whether I should truly take shahada and become Muslim, and if so, how to do it right and grow into a better Muslim. JazakAllah khair for your support.