Heaven’s 27
Texas Compassion Project
Portraits of children now in Heaven. July 4, 2025. Painting through grief has and continues to be a source of comfort for me; I want to share my art with people who have suffered unimaginable loss. I only hope and pray my paintings will bless these families. Much more than names and ages, I plan to write about each child’s life. Unique characteristics and favorite things about their lives that were and are real. Lives that will continue in spirit through generations. These girls will always be loved and remembered. Still to add: Margaret Sheedy
Hanna and Rebecca Lawrence were the best of friends. Born just minutes apart their bond was unmistakable. The twins loved each other, and their big sister Harper, with all of their hearts. Hanna was energetic beyond measure, often staying awake into the wee hours reading books. She would start her day early and with gusto, eager to create and learn. A social butterfly and a natural leader, Hanna loved an audience: she made friends wherever she went and even invented her own magical world filled with candy, color, and fun. Hanna loved art and was known for creating her signature drawings and etchings all over the house. Rebecca was also loving, equally imaginative, and sweet, yet she often preferred to do her own thing. More tech-savvy than her family members, Rebecca cleverly bypassed most passwords on her iPad and was the one to control the TV remote. With a keen eye for fashion and makeup, Rebecca put much thought into her appearance: she carefully selected her outfits and appreciated the “finer things.” The light and life these precious sisters brought to their family and to the world will live on through their sister and through everyone who knew and loved them.
Ellen Getten never met a stranger. She effusively offered hugs to everyone she encountered. Her sweet smile and signature freckles offered only an introduction to her beautiful soul. Ellen loved to dance and laugh with her cousins and friends. She enjoyed pasta with red sauce and gelato, having expanded her culinary palate while in Italy with her grandparents. Ellen's very best friend and sister, Gwynne, was her biggest cheerleader; their special bond continues and will live on forever. 🤍
Janie Hunt was an ambitious and kind friend to many at her school and beyond. She had an infectious smile and an adventurous spirit. As a model student, Janie's invention of a pinball game, her exceptional math skills, creative ability and other God-given talents garnered special designations and awards. Janie easily spread joy and laughter; this was perhaps her most memorable trait. Her Christian faith was the centerpiece of her life as she mentored and encouraged others. 🤍
Lila Bonner had a kind and gentle spirit. She was the best at giving warm hugs and loved animals so much she dreamed of becoming a veterinarian. Lila enjoyed soccer, piano, and dance and was an incredible role model to her sisters. 🤍
Hadley Hanna was a firecracker! Cartwheeling through life with an outpouring of love, Hadley was an avid fisherwoman and loved cheering for UT. Silly and full of humor, Hadley became fast friends with everyone she met. 🤍
Eloise "LuLu" Peck's mom, Missy, was her hero. She enjoyed dance parties, movies, and cuddles with Mom long past her bedtime! Lulu had a genuine heart for all people. Her infectious enthusiasm for life endeared Lulu to all who knew and loved her. 🤍
Sarah Marsh was the definition of her name, Sarah: a princess, and a daughter of the King. Sassy and sweet, loyal and exuberant in energy, her kindhearted spirit touched everyone she met. 🤍
Lainey Landry filled the lives of her family with love, laughter, and endless fun. Lainey was blessed wth enthusiasm and wit beyond measure. She radiated happiness wherever she went. Affectionately known as "Lainey Boo" among other endearing nicknames, Lainey was a shining star in all of her endeavors.
Molly DeWitt's care and genuine concern for others was at the center of her heart. She had immeasurable creative talent and was lovingly strong-willed. Molly possessed an innate empathy for others, generously showering people with love. 🤍
Kellyanne Lytal was a high achiever at school, earning numerous awards and accolades. She aspired to attend the University of Texas at Austin and flourished in academics, sports, and music. Kellyanne's sparkle and joy followed her wherever she went; whether dressing up in beautiful gowns and makeup or worshiping Jesus at church, her dynamic and loving demeanor will continue on through all who knew her. 🤍
Linnie McCown was the definition of beauty, inside and out. She made people feel special by generously offering hugs and greeting others by name. Fully confident and proud of her challenges with dyslexia, Linnie encouraged her friends to embrace their limitations; to face them with strength and positivity. Linnie was a talented artist and dancer and was a beloved sister to her two brothers. 🤍
If I may use some words from Cile Steward’s loving mother… She was music, laughter, and play for her family. She was extraordinary and brave. Cile moved through the world like a hummingbird; quick and bright and nimble. She lived in full color at full speed and was always in motion. Cile’s life burns bright. Her soul is forever entwined with her mother’s, reflecting the woman she would’ve become one day. Cile’s absence is like the sky, spread over everything. May God bless Cile’s hummingbird soul and all of her family members, and may Cile be brought home to them. She is eternally loved. 🤍
Greta Toranzo was an independent and gracious young lady. She was a loving sister to her younger brother, Oliver. Gifted in countless areas, Greta's creativity and kindness blessed the world around her. She was an honor student who loved music and excelled in tennis and swimming. 🤍
Chloe Childress was a hero at Camp Mystic. She fiercely loved and protected the young girls in her care through the unimaginable. Chloe was born a natural leader and demonstrated a compassionate spirit throughout her life. She was a distinguished leader in many charitable clubs and organizations. Chloe was also a self-taught musician and treasured her time with her parents and brother. She was excited to attend the University of Texas at Austin with a focus on pre-med and hoped to one day become a doctor. Chloe was strong and independent, always putting the needs of others above her own. Her radiant spirit, infectious joy, and heart of compassion will continue on in the lives of all who were blessed to know her.
Blakely McCrory was an adventurous beauty who enjoyed the outdoors and theatre. She loved the cattle on her Granddaddy Pat's farm. Blakely was a natural in front of the camera, singing and twirling on the beach-or anywhere-with delight. She had a special bond with her older brother. Blakely joined her dad and uncle in Heaven and will be loved and adored, always. 🤍
Abby Pohl, age 8 portrait for her grandparents
Wynne Naylor was a nature enthusiast! She loved being in the outdoors exploring God's creation. Sharp and inquisitive, Wynne asked many questions and was eager to learn about the world around her. Wynne's faith was unwavering as she sought to be more like Jesus every day. She loved to joke and laugh, dance and run. Her confidence and grace will continue her legacy to all of her loved ones.
Katherine Ferruzzo was a hero at Camp Mystic. She fiercely loved and protected the young girls in her care through the unimaginable. All of her life Katherine was dedicated to helping those with special needs. Born with natural talent and the ability to assist those in need of extra help and care, Katherine was eager to study Special Education at the University of Texas at Austin. She was member and leader in numerous esteemed organizations including National Honor Society and English National Honor Society. Katherine spent countless hours as a volunteer serving the special needs community. Katherine’s humor, effervescence, and sincerity touched the lives of everyone around her.
Mary Grace Baker lived and loved big. A true renaissance woman, MGB excelled in an array of activities and interests including dance, sports, travel, and acting. Pink and bows were among her favorite things, as were sequins, legos and rainbows. She doted on her younger brother, Jeb; she was gifted with a nurturing and protective spirit over him. Mary Grace cherished her time with her mom and dad and also had a special relationship with her beloved Nana.
Mary Kate Jacobe was tiny but mighty! Witty and sweet, graceful and charming...she loved from the heart. Mary Kate had lofty ambitions for her future and was interested in becoming a singer, a doctor, an artist, and an actress. 🤍
Renee Smajstrla's talents and aptitude were limitless. She proudly earned the title of Soaring Eagle, receiving all A's in school. Renee also confidently displayed her acting skills to her classmates and aspired to take the stage at camp as the main character. Renee was a gifted athlete, teammate, sister, and friend. 🤍
Anna Margaret Bellows exuded Pura Alegria, "pure joy" to all who knew her. She loved sports, pets, and people - all people, even those she did not know personally. Margaret was highly intelligent and wise beyond her 9 years. 🤍
Abby Pohl's irresistible blue eyes and loving demeanor brought light and life to the world. She cherished her relationships with her family members and formed unique and special relationships with each of them. Abby was a star when she and her beloved sisters would have dance parties together and when she hosted sleepovers with her friends. God was the centerpiece of her life; Abby always loved learning more about her Creator. 🤍
Mary Barrett Stevens, "May May" to family and friends, drew people in with her radiance and magnetic personality. She had many interests and talents: sports, art, skiing, dance, and had a beaming and contagious smile. Mary Barrett was wise beyond her 8 years. 🤍
Lucy Dillon was bright beyond her years and was a fearless leader. She was gifted in sports, loved animals, and was blessed with perseverance. Lucy was a friend to all and was filled with compassion. She was determined to never quit and encouraged others to follow their dreams.
Virginia Hollis was a true Cowgirl. Growing up on a ranch, she learned from her grandpa "Poppy" how to ride horses and work with cattle. She and her beloved horse, Salt Valley, were the best of friends and participated in the rodeo. Virginia also enjoyed exploring her God-given artistic talent having won a 1st place painting award. She excelled in piano and music, even composing a signature song. Virginia's boundless curiosity and interest in the world drove her to constantly create and try new things. She will be honored forever by her younger sister, her family, and by all who had the opportunity to know her.
Margaret Sheedy was a shining light from the day she was born. Just as her beautiful blue eyes radiated happiness and joy, Margaret's heart was filled with love and generosity toward everyone. She was a true and sincere friend who welcomed challenges as opportunities. Independent and dependable, Margaret was a leader and gave her all to anything she pursued. May the sound of her dancing footsteps always be heard in her family's hearts. God bless Margaret and all who knew and loved her.