My name is Danielle Alridge, and with the heaviest heart I’ve ever known, I am saddened to share my husband, my best friend, the father to my children was taken from us far too soon.

On May 24th, our world was shattered. William was tragically murdered, a nightmare we are still trying to wake up from. He left for the day and never came home. And now I’m left here trying to explain to our children why their daddy isn’t walking through the door.

William was everything to our family. He was the one who made us laugh and who held us together. He had a heart full of love, a laugh that filled the room, and arms that always knew how to hold us close. He didn’t deserve this. No one does. But now we are left with heartbreak, grief, and so many unanswered questions.

He was a loving husband, father, son, brother, uncle, and cousin. His untimely death will have a tremendous impact on so many lives. His was the pillar of his family.

I never imagined I would be planning a funeral instead of a family vacation this summer. I never imagined I’d be holding our kids while they cry for their dad instead of watching him tuck them in. This pain is unbearable.

I am starting this GoFundMe to help cover the costs of William’s funeral and memorial, as well as to help support our children in the coming months as we try to figure out life without him. Every dollar will go toward honoring his life and helping us navigate the unimaginable road ahead.

If you knew William, you knew how deeply he loved his family. I promise to do everything I can to raise our children the way he would have — with love, strength, and courage — but I can’t do it alone. If you can give, we are grateful. If you can share, we are thankful. And if all you can do is pray for us, please know we feel it and appreciate it more than words can say.

Thank you for loving William, for remembering him, and for holding us in your hearts

With love,

Danielle Aldridge