Celebration of life for Crystal Hankinson
Donation protected
To everyone,
I’m writing this with the heaviest heart — our mom passed away today. It’s something I’m still trying to wrap my head around, and the pain feels impossible to put into words.
Before she left, I’m thankful she knew I was sober, trying to do better, and that I loved her with all my heart. That brings me a little peace in this moment. She knew I was fighting for myself — and for her — and I’m grateful she saw that before she left us.
What truly breaks my heart is thinking about my little brother and sister, Anna and Jacob. They’re only 14 years old, and now they have to grow up without their mom. No child should have to face that kind of loss. I want to make sure they, and all of us who loved her, have a place to visit — a place where we can feel close to her, talk to her, and keep her memory alive.
Our mom carried burdens that most people never saw. She fought battles in silence, but even with all that pain, she had one of the biggest hearts. Her smile could light up any room, and no matter what she was facing, she always tried to be there for others.
You don’t get to pick your parents, but you only get one mom. She gave me life, and I will forever be grateful for that. I want to give her a proper goodbye — the kind of funeral that reflects how deeply she was loved. A place where her name can live on forever, where her memory stays alive in the hearts of those who cared for her.
She left this world too soon, but I believe she’s with God now — free from pain, free from struggle.
If you’re able to help in any way — whether through a donation or even just sharing this message — it means more than I can express. We just want to honor her the way she deserves.
With love and gratitude,
Dustin
(on behalf of Anna, Jacob, Shawn, Chad, and Robert)
Organizer and beneficiary
Dustin Hagadon
Organizer
Battle Creek, MI
Shawn Gardner
Beneficiary