Ava White-Smith and Granddaughters

It it with a heavy heart we share the news of Ava’s passing on September 24th 2023. Although sudden, we were able to be by her side and sing her favorite song to her in some of her last moments. Ava has left a huge hole in this family and we are all currently sorting how to even move forward. The unfairness that comes along with losing a loved one is being thrown directly into the logistics of what’s next and all those who need cared for in the process.

At the time of Ava’s passing she was the main caregiver of her two beautiful grand-daughters Keanna and Layla. They are 10 and 11 years old and so wonderful. Kiki (as we call her) is bold, fun and smart. Layla is wild, free and hilarious. We are finding ways to comfort them while also continuing to connect them with their family and community. They are with their aunt as we all believe that is the best place for them to be loved in the ways they undoubtedly deserve.

I am setting up this go fund me for two reasons. One is to help with the funeral costs and anything associated to this unexpected need. Second, for the girls Keanna and Layla. We want to do everything we can to support them and set them up in ways that will help with this transition. Losing their grandma is hard enough so we want to lighten their future any way we can. Whether that’s helping them buy new clothes as they grow, money for summer camps/school or any needs that come about as they grow up. We would love to take them to Disney world while we are here to try and bring joy in such hard times. We also were planning to fly them out to California for Christmas but those funds to do so have now been designated to funeral costs.

I feel uneasy asking for anything to be honest. I love being able to show up and be the one to provide help where needed, but in this moment of authenticity I cannot provide all the things I wish to without the help of my community.

I know that the same God that is currently dancing with my mother-in-law in heaven is the same God that will provide for our family at this time. God has also shown me the kindness of community in times of hardship and that the gems of heaven can indeed walk this earth as well. Thank you to all of those who are praying for our family in this time of distress and we thank you for sewing into the future of these girls and providing a smile for them. We will be sure they know the names of all who gifted.

God bless.