Samantha Runnion was a beautiful, bright and joyful little girl. She loved to read for fun, write stories, paint, draw, play herguitar, sing and dance. Most of all she loved to play games with her family and friends. She approached each day as a new adventure, eager to learn and play. Samantha looked forward to growing up and being a mommy and a teacher. She was a precious gift to all who knew her.

In the aftermath of Samantha's disappearance, the neighborhood where the Runnion-Donnelly family lives rallied in support of the family and hosted a beautiful vigil for several days. Nearly one thousand strangers came to the vigil to offer gifts, condolences and prayers.