Laney’s Story
Laney
was an amazing daughter and the second of my six children. She did many
wonderful things in her short life. She grew up near the San Rafael Swell where
she loved to hike in places like the Wedge, Swinging Bridge, and Little Goblin
Valley. She learned to do woodworking and crafts at a young age and
was extremely creative. She enjoyed using her skills to do things for
others. She loved to bake, and could often be found making a cake or making
cookies to take to someone. Don’t worry, she would usually leave some of the
broken ones for us. And we loved it.
Laney
was a tremendous athlete. As a 10 year old, she played softball with casts
on both feet. She had seven varsity letters in four different sports. She
played high school volleyball, basketball, softball, and track. She held many
records at her high school and received many awards.
She
was a high school referee for volleyball and basketball, doing varsity games
her very first year. From the time she was 15, she worked for the recreation
department in our small town serving the youth by teaching them the things she
loved about sports and being a wonderful example to them.
Laney
championed her brother, who is disabled, even changing her major in college to
special education so she could help other kids like her brother. She adored her
sisters and was very close to them. She included them in many of her
activities, whether it be a trip to the lake or to pizza night with her
friends, she always included them.
She
was bold and strong, always speaking her mind. She didn’t care what others
thought about her, but she thought about what was right and true. One always
knew where they stood with Laney.
She
was also passionate, considerate and faithful. She put her whole heart into
every endeavor. She strived to be the best, but that didn’t mean leaving
someone behind. She sought out those who needed a friend. When the coach made
one girl run extra for being late to practice, Laney ran with her. She
sacrificed her precious time serving others. And she taught others to do the
same.
Laney
was in love with the most amazing guy, and was well on her way to the life that
she had always dreamed of with him. In August of 2011, Laney fell while
they were hiking in the mountains close to our home and passed away. He was
with her when she died, and our family will forever be grateful to him for
loving her so completely. He is the kind of man who knew exactly what to
do when she needed him the most. He continues to spend many hours at our home,
and we love him very much.
Laney
was an avid journal writer. The night she died, we were looking in her journals
and found many amazing things that we knew were meant for us. One of
those things was her written testimony. As a result of her incredible influence
for good on others, we have shared her story with the hope that she will
continue to impact others. Her legacy will live on.
So
proud to be called,”Laney’s mom,”
~Tina
♥Here
you will find links to articles and stories that have been written about
Laney.
