Katie Britt: “on January 10, 2002, Laken Riley was born into this world to her loving family. Tomorrow would have been her 23rd…”

“on January 10, 2002, Laken Riley was born into this world to her loving family. Tomorrow would have been her 23rd birthday. She should be celebrating with her family, blowing out candles on her birthday cake, and filling her loved one's lives with the joy she spread so effortlessly. But instead of celebrating another year around the Sun with friends and family, instead of figuring out what her next steps in life would be--which had limitless potential--instead of achieving her dreams of becoming a nurse, tomorrow, we will mark the first day she isn't here with us on this side of Heaven. Nobody knew Laken and the light she shined on all those around her like her family, so I would like to read a statement from Allyson and John Phillips, Laken's mother and stepfather: It's impossible to fully describe what was taken from Laken and from our family on February 22, 2024. Laken's life was abundantly and exceptionally full of promise. She was a beautiful, shining beacon in the life of everyone who knew her. Not only did the people who knew and loved her lose a beautiful soul, but so did our world. Laken shared her love for Jesus with everyone she encountered. Laken's passion for sharing her faith through acts of kindness were felt by everyone she met. Laken was selfless, hard-working, and made those around her feel special. Laken did not just talk about her faith, she led by example. A truly special person.…”