This week on Still With Purpose, we chose not to release a normal episode.Instead, we paused to honor the life of Mary Virginia Stacey, a beautiful soul who passed away suddenly and unexpectedly due to complications from influenza at just 15 years old. Mary was Christy’s daughter’s lifelong best friend. They grew up together, dreamed of going to college together, becoming roommates, raising pets, and sharing a long life of friendship side by side. She was not just a friend, but family. To Christy, her husband, and their younger daughter, Mary felt like one of their own, another sister in their home. Mary leaves behind two loving parents and three siblings, including her twin brother, and many extended family members, all of whom are grieving a loss no family should ever have to endure. In this tribute, Christy shares from the heart about the pain of losing someone so young, the ripple effect grief has on children, families, and entire communities, and why it is okay to stop and sit with that pain instead of pushing forward like nothing has changed. This tribute includes a photo video shared through the lens of a best friend’s mom, capturing years of deep friendship, love, laughter, and memories. You will see Christy’s children throughout the photos along with many others - a reflection of how closely their lives were woven together, and you will feel the love that radiated from Mary and her smile that truly lit up every room. Together, we acknowledge that while we believe God has a plan and purpose, tragedy does not always come with answers. This episode is not about fixing grief or rushing healing. It is about honoring a life, allowing space for loss, and recognizing how precious and fragile life truly is. We invite you to spend a few quiet moments with us. You can watch the video tribute or simply listen and reflect on loved ones you have lost, where you are in your own grieving process, and the gratitude that comes from having loved deeply. If you are grieving, you are not alone. If your heart is heavy, this space is for you. We will return next week. Until then, hug your loved ones tight. Visit stillwithpurpose.com to explore more episodes, reflection questions, and resources. Go to our Website for all of our links - www.stillwithpurpose.com Join our Community on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/groups/546609031437827 Instagram - www.instagram.com/stillwithpurposepodcast Email us at: info@stillwithpurpose.com Amanda’s Book - amandasmentoring.com Sign up for our Emails that will encourage you to keep growing. www.stillwithpurpose.com Follow AND share with a friend! Intro and exit music "Indecision" by Dyalla, used with artist permission, https://www.youtube.com/Dyalla @StillWithPurpose Still With Purpose Podcast #GriefPodcast #LifeLostTooSoon #FaithAndGrief #HonoringHerLife #StillWithPurpose