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Laura DiPillo Obituary
Born March 12, 1999, in Mt. Vernon, Washington, she was the daughter of Steven W. DiPillo and Margaret A. Russo. Laura graduated from Hatfield Elementary School, the Williston-Northampton Middle School and was attending Northampton High School.
If you had the pleasure of knowing Laura, then you have a gift you'll carry with you always. Laura impacted every life she touched. She welcomed all with open arms and an open heart. She understood the misunderstood. She taught us to be ourselves, to accept everyone and to laugh frequently. She lit up every room she entered and the joy she spread was contagious. She loved and cared with her whole heart and soul. She is the light that will guide us home.
Laura leaves her parents, her brother Riley and sister Leah.
Calling hours will be Monday, July 7, from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Czelusniak Funeral Home of Northampton, 173 North St., Northampton, MA. The funeral will be Tuesday, July 8, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. at Blessed Sacrament Church, 354 Elm St., Northampton, MA.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Laura's name to ServiceNet, Adolescent DBT Program, 129 King St., Northampton, MA 01060.
To sign a Guest Book, express condolences, share memories and read other obituaries, go to www.gazettenet.com/obituaries.
Memories and Condolences
for Laura DiPillo
135 Entries
a friend
March 14, 2024
2 days ago was the tenth birthday we've celebrated without you. where does the time go? dear Alaska, i can only imagine the humor, compassion, and love you would have brought as a 25 year old. we still all miss you and love you but i'm confident we'll meet again someday somewhere somehow.
o
April 28, 2021
Dear Alaska,
I think of you often. I remember meeting you. Your bright pink hair and your brilliant smile. Your energy lifted the moods of those around you. I remember feeling in awe, in absolute admiration of your strength and character. I remember afterwards I looked forward to getting to know you better, but we lived far apart so I accepted that it would be a while before I saw you again.
The night you died I was in town, visiting with a mutual friend of ours. I think often of that night too. They got the call and rushed to you. I'm so sorry, Alaska. I pray that some day we meet again.
August 3, 2020
I think of you on many days and still during most nights. I can hardly imagine you at 21, we both already thought we were when you were 14 and I was 16. Your death changed the course of every life in a group of close friends and I sooooooo often longed for your wise presence among all of those silly boys. I love you Alaska forever and I know that I will see you again
December 10, 2019
i still think about you. i guess all there is to say is i hope you're at peace, i hope it doesn't hurt anymore. you brought so much light into this world and you touched so so many people's lives. you won't be forgotten alaska
September 25, 2019
i miss you.
May 17, 2019
Still thinking of you.
September 25, 2018
<3 <3 <3
N
November 5, 2017
Not sure if you'll ever see this, but to Laura's parents, I just want to say, not a day goes by I don't think about Laura. I knew her as Alaska, we met at Journey camp when we were little kids. I never met you, her parents, but we always talked about meeting up over the school year for Harry Potter marathons and the like. I wasn't able to attend her funeral, but she meant the world to me. I think about her all the time and I wish I could have been there for her more. I miss her so much, and I'm so, so sorry.
November 5, 2016
we still miss you, alaska. you won't be forgotten, and a part of you will live on in all of us.
April 7, 2015
Alaska, Laura, you beautiful girl; you will always be in my heart, mind and soul. Missing deeply you. ~ Sage
March 26, 2015
Seeing your beautiful daughter's face in the paper, I suddenly understood that my child and I had the honor of spending time with you and Laura several years ago in a support group. I do not have words to express how sorry and sad I feel for your loss, which shifted from the compassion one feels for a stranger, to feelings for one you have known.
Katherine and Mark Dean
March 20, 2015
Oh Dear Margaret and Family,
We've just learned today of the unimaginable loss of your beloved Laura. I was wild for that child and our hearts ache for you and your family.
March 12, 2015
Happy 16th birthday to a beautiful girl
December 10, 2014
She went to seek the Great Perhaps.
Casandra Moss
December 2, 2014
I only just today found out what happened, and I am so sorry to those of you who have been thinking of her and missing her for so long. Like others say, hugging Laura was like getting hit by a train. It was the best though. <3
December 2, 2014
it's been 5 months and a day and i think about you everyday
November 25, 2014
It's been a year today I finally met Alaska, and nobody has ever hugged me so hard in my life. I remember clearly how happy she looked to see me and how she didn't let me go for a while. I've never met someone so kind and understanding, and I've never met a person remotely like her since.
She was one in a million, she was a lighthouse in a storm and it was a privilege for me to have ever met her. She'll be in my heart always... I could never forget her and I am so grateful for the things she taught me and how happy we made eachother.
I think about her everyday and miss her all the time, for someone so young, nobody has made quite an impact on me or my life like she did, and I was More than happy in the three days we spent together when she came to England. I'll miss you forever
Rory Rochelle
August 4, 2014
Margaret & Steve,
So sorry to hear the news. My heart aches for the two of you. I have such fond memories of the little girl who played with vim & vigor as the curls waved.
Warmly,
Rory
July 23, 2014
Laura is an angel in Gods Kingdom now and watches over us all.
Kate Parks
July 23, 2014
I didn't know Alaska very well. But in the short time I did know her, she taught me so much about myself and the world. She was much smarter than anyone could guess, and it is a tragedy to have lost her. My heart goes out to all who knew you, Alaska. You touched so many hearts, and we will never forget you. Thank you, fate, for introducing me to such an inspiring and wonderful woman as Alaska.
~Kate Parks
July 21, 2014
Our deepest sympathies. Our thought and wishes are with your family-Hollis & Patrick Toney and Tara Seals
The Lee's
July 11, 2014
Dipillo Family,
We just found out about Laura's passing. We are very sorry for your loss. I didn't really know Laura but what I do remember is her watching out for Riley. When Riley came to one of Jason's birthday parties, Laura walked Riley to the backyard and made sure he was comfortable. What a great big sis!
Anita & Curtis Panlilio
July 10, 2014
Margaret, Steven and Riley,
Our deepest sympathies for the loss of Laura. Please know that our prayers and thoughts are with your family.
Craig & Carol Melin
July 10, 2014
Margaret, Steve, and family
We learned of your loss from CT where we reside as of June 30. Knowing the two of you, we can only imagine what a special and caring person Laura has been and how her loss affected everyone fortunate enough to have known her. Though we weren't able to join you in person, please know that our thoughts are with you.
Peter Wan
July 9, 2014
Dr. DiPillo - Our hearts go out to you and your family for the premature loss of your daughter. We're praying for you and all your loved ones.
- Peter Wan & Adrienne Levine
Laura took this photo with my camera at the Smith bulb show last year.
Sarah Metcalf
July 8, 2014
My earlier submission apparently failed to post. Laura was very dear to me. I was her mentor through her coming-of-age year at the Unitarian Society, and we immediately bonded over love of Benedict Cumberbatch. She lit up every room she walked into. I will treasure her memory.
July 8, 2014
I didn't spend much time with lulu but I can tell you her kind unapologetic way of being herself was one of the reason I began becoming more comfortable in my own skin. I was so excited for next year when we would be at the same school again and I wish I could of known her better. Although her time was to short I want anyone who reads this to know she changed lives and will forever stay in our hearts.
Margaret and Bob Ficalora
July 8, 2014
Steve and Margaret,
We are so sorry to hear about the loss of your daughter. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Margaret and Bob Ficalora
Juliusz
July 8, 2014
I have known Laura since I moved to the US around 1st grade, and she is by far one of the greatest friends I have ever had. Since I moved out of town I have not kept in touch for years, and I very deeply regret that. I am very sorry for the loss and wish I had tried to keep in touch, and that we could talk again. I am very sorry I heard about this too late to be able to make it to the funeral. I offer my deepest condolences, though I wish I could do more.
Carla Ness
July 8, 2014
Dear Steve and Margaret,
My deepest sympathy for your loss of your beautiful child. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. It is so sad. Please let me know if there is anything I can do to help you.
J
July 7, 2014
Laura, thank you. I have never known you to say anything but inspiring and kind words. Especially when they were needed the most. And the best part, you knew when they were needed. Even when others did not. Thank you.
Matteo Casinghino
July 7, 2014
Riley Steve and Margaret: I wish I could have spent as much time as possible with Laura, it is the greatest regret of my life that I didn't. I'm not sure I can truly express how much I really mean this. She was always my greatest friend. Considering how I feel, I can't even imagine what you must be going through. For what it's worth, I offer my deepest condolences.
Matteo
Matteo Casinghino
July 7, 2014
Riley, Steve and Margaret: i truly wish that I could have been able to spend as much time as I could have with Laura. It is truly the greatest regret of my life that I couldn't. I am so deeply sorry for your loss, and I am so sorry that I can't make it to either the wake or funeral.
Matteo
July 7, 2014
Dear Margaret and Steve,
We are so saddened by the news of Laura`s passing. A light has gone off in your life. May it still be a guide for you. A precious vibrant life is never truly gone.
Our thoughts are with you,
Bob and Pam Kozora
Kristin and Paul Jhamb/ Burns
July 7, 2014
Dear Margaret, Steve, Riley and Leah,
We haven't had the chance to see you enough but we love you like family. Our hearts ache for you. May our love and the love of so many others for you and Laura offer strength and some solace during this most difficult time. All of our love , Kristin, Paul, Allie and Rachel.
Charles & Jean Zahra
July 7, 2014
So sorry for your loss. You are in the thoughts and prayers of all of us at the Campground.
Jodi Newton
July 7, 2014
Dear Margaret,
I am so sorry for the pain you must endure. When we chatted about our children you would beam with pride. All of the descriptions that people wrote about your lovely daughter are truly a tribute to her beautiful persona. You and your family will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Kathy Bowers
July 7, 2014
Steve and Margaret
I will pray for your families to find the strength and peace you deserve.My heart goes out to you all.
Kathy
Emily Vezina
July 7, 2014
I am very lucky to have had the privilege of working with Lulu (aka Piscis Puella) at Williston for her 7th and 8th grade years. In and out of the classroom, she always proved herself to be a bright, sophisticated thinker and a truly open-hearted, open-minded, independent kid. She laughed easily, enjoyed skepticism and sarcasm, but not at other's people's expense, and was genuinely kind and open with those around her including younger kids. My thoughts and heart are with her and her family.
Renee Rossi
July 7, 2014
Margaret, Steve and Family:
We are deeply saddened to hear of your unfathomable loss of Laura. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Renee, Harry, Matthew & Danielle
Leslie Lessard
July 7, 2014
I was fortunate to have Riley in my class the first year I taught at Hatfield Elementary. I will always remember Laura as being the sweet older sister who would stop by to check in or to pick him up at the end of the day. She was always smiling and incredibly sweet. She carried herself well and seemed beyond her years. I am sorry for your family's loss and wish you all peace.
Sandy Bellantonio
July 7, 2014
Dear Margaret and Steve. Please know that both of you and Laura are in my thoughts and prayers. God's grace be with you. Sandy
Vanessa Kerby
July 7, 2014
Laura was an individual who always made me happy. As a new teacher in Hatfield she was an especially welcoming and kind hearted student who made my first year of teaching much less daunting. Every year after her moving up I would look forward to her visits to the elementary school where we would have lengthy discussions on a variety of topics and share with each other new discoveries and exciting insights. Laura was completely original, never a follower. I will always be impressed with her and the beautiful person she truly was.
July 7, 2014
Our thoughts are with your family. From all the physicians and staff at Northampton Area Pediatrics.
Mike April
July 7, 2014
As a student Laura is not easy forgotten. She would often say something witty or interesting that would send the class into a different discussion. No matter were I ran into her she would always give me a big hug, be genuinely present, and engaged in conversation with me. Her spirit and infectious smile always brightened my day. I will greatly miss her. My thoughts especially go out to Riley, who is also an amazing person with so much to offer those around him.
July 6, 2014
im sorry for ur loss
Caleb Toner
July 6, 2014
Alaska,
You were such an amazing person. I had the pleasure of knowing and connecting with you for quite a while. you always knew how to make me smile and make me feel better when I was down. you lit up my life and inspired me to not only be myself but to be the best version of myself I could be. we used to talk about drag a lot so I thought it was fitting that when I went to Ptown this weekend that I go to a drag show in your honor. I got some beautiful flowers and sent them away with the ocean tide with a little note to you. I know you will be watching over me and that puts me at peace. I love you my friend. thank you so much for being in my life, you have truly made a difference you will never know.
July 6, 2014
Margaret, Steven, Riley, and Leah,
Words cannot express how sorry I am to hear about your daughter and sister. You are not alone in this journey. In time may you find some comfort and peace from those around you who love and support you and may you carry the loving memories of Laura within your heart forever.
Rich Lawlor
Anne Krzanowski
July 6, 2014
Margaret and family,
I am so very sorry to learn of this tragic loss. You and your family will be in my prayers.
Jasmeet Singh
July 6, 2014
My thoughts and love go out to the loved ones of Alaska. I did not know Alaska as well as other people did, but I can definitely agree with the fact that she was a shining and kind spirit. When this year's second semester of high school started, my second period was Latin, and there I had met Alaska for the first time. She ended up leaving the class, but in the time that she was there, she left an impression of kindness on me that I will not ever forget. She smiled brightly at me in our class together, and it made me happy to know that even a stranger was willing to smile at me. I wish I had the chance to have gotten to know her better, and I also wish she was here, making the days of more people brighter. Rest in paradise angel, and shine bright.
Fred Itterly
July 6, 2014
Laura would fill the room with her smile, energy and ability to engage. She made an indelible first impression on me and subsequently dropped by to say hey and just talk. I will always remember her choosing to sit cross-legged on the carpeted office floor rather than on the chairs. Laura had the ability and desire to really listen and talk to people.
Sarah
July 6, 2014
I'd like to be one of the many to tell the family how beautiful and amazing she is. I say "is" because she left her mark on all of the people she interacted with. I want to say thank you, Lulu, thank you for being a part of my life and helping me through it all.
Barbara Lamay
July 6, 2014
Such a bright spark - I did not know Laura by name, but recognize her as one of the bright smiling sparks in the halls at NHS. To her family - you are in my thoughts and prayers. Thank you for nurturing and sharing her while she was here.
Jessie
July 6, 2014
Alaska you thought me that it's ok to not be perfect and you can be super happy even with your flaws, that was a lesson I needed to learn so thank you, and I hope you have hair dye where ever you are now.
Deanna
July 6, 2014
Margaret -- We are so very sorry for your loss. We only met Laura a few times but she was a beautiful girl who clearly touched many people's lives. Our thoughts are with you.
Doug Niedzwecki
July 6, 2014
My heart goes out to Lulu's family and friends. I had the pleasure of being Lulu's 8th grade English teacher at Williston. I truly looked forward each day to working with Lulu because she filled the room and our hearts with her contagious humor, sense and practice of compassion, love of literature, and zest for knowing others. Lulu's caring for all and warm hugs touched many in meaningful ways. Lulu, thank you for being a beautiful part of my life.
Robert Landman
July 5, 2014
I don't know you but when my friend Monique misses you dearly every day then you must have been some one special..
Bruce Gregori
July 5, 2014
I had the pleasure of teaching Laura in 3rd grade at the Hatfield Elementary School. Her bright and direct personality was first to be noticed. Laura was a brave student and never afraid to question any learning experience. The diversity of her being made Laura's intellect more apparent, and, in many ways, made her shine as a person. Laura was, without question, able to make a valuable contribution in the classroom, with her peers, and with her teachers. She will be missed.
Barbara Pope
July 5, 2014
We are stunned by this loss. Laura was truly one of a kind. She contributed so much enthusiasm, creativity, wit and kindness. It was obvious how much she loved her family and how much they adored her. She always looked out for others, had a big smile, and was a spirited and articulate advocate when she sensed unfairness. It was great to see Laura passionate about her favorite reads, recommending John Green and analyzing life through Harry Potter. And she loved that manicotti someone in her family made for her. We saw her twice in April (the last time at the school play) and I walked away, watching her reach out to hug yet another person, and thought that with all of her unique talents, she was destined to become a very successful and famous writer. What a gem. We will hold her in our hearts and memories and prayers with gratitude.
Don Gauger
July 5, 2014
May she walk in beauty always
Iliana Olivella
July 5, 2014
You will always be in my heart.
<3 Kathy
July 5, 2014
I first knew you as Laura, then LuLu and then Alaska. You always brightened any space you were in, and had the gift of making others happy -- and happy to be near you. I will always keep you in my heart, and be profoundly grateful that our paths crossed from time to time. God bless you dear girl. Heaven is surely a happier, brighter and more precious place with your presence. XOXOX
Brandon Andrews
July 5, 2014
Lulu was a great girl, great friend, and a wonderful human being. Sadly i only got the pleasure of meeting Lulu for one year at Williston, yet she touched us all in different ways. When i needed someone to trust and talk to i went to Lulu, when i needed someone to make me laugh i went to Lulu, and after a hard sports practice i would find Lulu and sit and have diner with her. Memories i will cherish the rest of my life. Laura i will truly miss you- God bless you and your family. Rest in Peace
Brandon Andrews <3
Val Leggett
July 5, 2014
Our daughter is friends with laura(Lulu) and even though we were an ocean apart, and only knew Laura and Margaret a short but amazing time, we will miss this incredible young lady who we grew to love in our life, so so sorry to hear, words are not enough, deepest condolences to Margaret,family and all friends
Taylor Glickman
July 5, 2014
Even though I didn't get the chance to know Laura as well as I'd hope to, I was able to meet her at a conference last November. Her energy was contagious and always brought a smile to everyone's face. My condolences go out to her family, and may she rest in the absolute sweetest peace.
Renee Bellotte
July 4, 2014
Margaret, Steve, Riley, Leah, Susan and John,
I met Laura just a couple of times. She was bright, inquisitive and engaging. My favorite memory of her is when Margaret, Laura & Riley met us at Crandall's Field in Ashaway during a visit at Aunt Anne's. Laura ran through that field with total abandon, loving the freedom of the open space on that warm summer day. From what others have written here about her, she kept that spunk and it brought joy to many. Love and prayers for you now from Aunt Renee.
crystal m
July 4, 2014
i did not know laura but i do know steve dipillo who is amazing and really helped me out threw a terrible time in my life so i am almost certain from what im reading that laura shared the same qualties :/ i am so sorry for your loss my thoughts & prayers go out to the whole family ..and it def seems as tho laura was a beautiful girl inside and out .
Megan Addis
July 4, 2014
Alaska could make me smile no matter how bad my day was going. She was always smiling bright and happy. Alaska was on swim team with me for two years and honestly I looked forward to every practice like it was christmas morning, she always had something new for me to laugh about. Alaska was a fighter and she was strong and I feel she would want us to smile and just remember all the good about her because there was a lot of that. I got to reunite with her this year when she was at NHS and I was so happy to see her again. Alaska was a smart, talented, kind, caring, happy and generous person. Goodbye Alaska rest easy. You'll be deeply missed.
Laura and the green bowl
Jennifer Schumacher
July 4, 2014
David, Jeannette, Ryan & Maddie
July 4, 2014
Dear Margaret & Steve,
Words cannot convey the loss we all feel at this time. Please know that we will always remember the love and happiness she shared with all of us. I will always remember her singing, skiing and the way she challenged our intellects. May she rest in peace knowing she was loved by all.
Rae Anna Gray
July 4, 2014
Margaret,Steve,Sue and John and family,our hearts,thoughts and prayers are with you all. Dick and Rae Anna Gray
Charlie Collins
July 4, 2014
Lulu,
My dear, sweet girl. I have loved the time we spent together. You were so amazing and beautiful and I will miss everything about you. Thank you for helping me discover who I am. I will always regret the time we did not spend together. Life will not be as bright knowing you no longer share the days, the nights, and the experiences of life that you had not yet experienced. 15 is much too young for anyone to leave this earth. I will love you and remember you forever and always.
Mike Coles
July 4, 2014
So sorry to hear. My son and daughter are friends with Lulu; we met her last autumn, where she made a truly bright impression. Can only imagine how you are feeling as parents. If it is any consolation, you are not alone and Lulu will be always remembered. Our love to your family.
July 4, 2014
Eternal life.
July 4, 2014
Margaret & Family:
I'm so sorry you have to go through this experience. I can only hope you are able to support each other with the strength that I have known Margaret to have through working with her. My heart breaks for you all. :/
-Jason O'Brien
laura floating happily
valerie schumacher
July 3, 2014
making faces at me for being silly
valerie schumacher
July 3, 2014
still practicing that dive!
valerie schumacher
July 3, 2014
laura at mom's pool showing us how she will one day dive in
valerie schumacher
July 3, 2014
valerie schumacher
July 3, 2014
margaret, steve, riley & leah - i have been thinking of you all, and especially laura, for many weeks now. sometimes laura was the first thought of the day. i did not know her in recent years, just in her childhood when we'd swim in mom's pool and ice skate in the woods. and how we stood on the streetcorner by Sweeties one day mimicking the cuckoo bird sound of the crosswalk with our whistles. this photo is how i've always thought of laura and somehow still think of her now, floating and suspended, surrounded by light. this smile on her face. she was so proud that day, learning to leap bravely into the pool. i sat on her rubber ball underwater and she laughed with glee as i let it go and it burst out of the water. it is appropriate too, it seems, that she has her arms spread out wide as i read all about the big laura hugs. she seemed to embrace everything with a passion. i am deeply sorry for your incredible loss. there are simply no words that seem adequate. and so i can only hope that his photo will be something that can make you smile at the sparkle that was laura at this tremendously difficult time.
The Culvers
July 3, 2014
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of Laura's family and friends. Laura lit up the room with her laughter, hugs and kindness. She will be always remembered and dearly missed. Our sincerest condolences.
July 3, 2014
Alaska, I would like to tell you that you are awesome and brave and quirky and colorful and beautiful and super-duper cool, and you gave me lots of laughter and smiles, and you have reminded me how human even the most rad, seemingly invincible people are. You idolize others and are weird in the most desirable of ways, and you are someone I will always want to be. Thank-you SO much for being a part of my existence. And thank you to everyone who cares for her.
E
July 3, 2014
I remember when we talked. You admired how I acted like I didn't care what anyone thought of me. You told me you wanted to be like that. You're in a better place now.
Cristina Sosa
July 3, 2014
Gabe, Paul, Laura
Cristina Sosa
July 3, 2014
Laura 6th grace ceremony
Cristina Sosa
July 3, 2014
Gabe trying to get tie off and Laura in background
Cristina Sosa
July 3, 2014
Paul and Laura 6th grade ceremony
Cristina Sosa
July 3, 2014
Laura at moving up ceremony 6th grade Hatfield
Cristina Sosa
July 3, 2014
Sabrina Hildreth
July 3, 2014
Laura was a really bright and ambitious girl who could bring a smile to my face.
Charlotte
July 3, 2014
Alaska, I always admired your spark and I wish I could have gotten to know you better. To your family, I'm so sorry for your loss, Alaska was incredible. Wherever you are Alaska, rest easy. I love you.
Rich West
July 3, 2014
Dear Margaret and Steve - What a tragedy, what a great loss. Laura was a beautiful young spirit, possessing, it seemed to me, great self-confidence and genuine warmth. I felt honored to have been included in her wide circle of friends and I will miss her sorely.
Madison Young
July 3, 2014
Alaska you were one of the most incredible/smartest people I've ever met. You were my brothers best friend and gave him a glimmer of hope in a dark time, I will forever be grateful to you. I have to hope you are truely at peace now. Rest in Peace
Anne Kenyon
July 3, 2014
Margaret, Steve, Riley, Leah and family,
I think of every moment I spent with Laura......and I count each one a blessing.
Love, Aunt Anne
Diane Ponti
July 3, 2014
Margaret, Steve and family,
I just learned of Laura's passing, my heart breaks for your loss. Know that you have our love and support at this very difficult time.
Anne Kenyon
July 3, 2014
Margaret, Steve ,Riley ,Leah and family ;
I've been thinking of every moment that I have spent with Laura,..... and I count each one a blessing . My love , Aunt Anne
Marcus
July 3, 2014
I didn't know you all that well Alaska, but the conversations we had were always fun, interesting, and funny. Latin class won't ever have quite as much spark, or sass, that it did while you were with us. Rest easy whereever you are.
A photo Laura took with my phone at the Smith bulb show last year.
July 3, 2014
Laura was generous, honest, sweet, and above all lovable. I so loved being her friend. Condolences to all.
Debbie Charren (and Sydney Diehl)
July 3, 2014
To Margaret, Steven and family,
Alaska/Laura has been in our thoughts and prayers during the past six weeks, as have you. Our six months together on Thursday nights were filled with Alaska's vibrant enthusiasm. She was always welcoming and full of insights. In the second semester of school, Sydney and Alaska/Laura became even better friends. Their lockers were next to each other and they sat together in the back of history class. Alaska was considered a special friend. A few days ago, Sydney left for a three week trip to Belize to do community service. The hardest part of leaving, for her, was her concern about missing this difficult moment. Sydney wanted to be there for Alaska and for you. She continues to hold you all close at this difficult time.
I, also, have kept you in my thoughts and prayers. No one who has known Laura could ever forget her. Her beauty shone outside and in. Her intelligence and ability to deeply care were always evident. Please accept my deepest sympathy for your loss. I hope that the caring and prayers of the many whose lives Laura touched can offer you some solace at this most difficult time.
Xx
July 3, 2014
Goodbye Alaska, we'll love you forever <3
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