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Lives Touched, Legacies Honored
The Power of Remembering: Honoring Lives, Preserving Legacies, and Sharing Their Stories
Many of the first memorials created through Rosenda’s Gift were in honor of Rose, our light, our reason, our beginning. The people who accepted these gifts helped us understand just how powerful a memorial can be. Amid overwhelming grief, a memorial becomes a small moment of peace, a gentle way to say, 'You’ll never be forgotten.'
Memorials allow us to keep our loved ones close, tangibly honor their memory, and create something beautiful out of heartache. They give us space to mourn, celebrate, remember, and cherish. Through each gift, we see how a sliver of light can brighten the darkest days.
Memorials are proof that love endures; a visible reminder that their loved one’s name continues to be spoken. At Rosenda’s Gift, we have seen how grief can be transformed into something tangible that provides comfort and ensures that no life is forgotten.
Families who receive a Gift from Rose have shared how meaningful it is to have a lasting tribute to hold onto, as have those who accept the memorials, make donations, help with fundraising, approve memorials, and offer heartfelt encouragement.
Rosenda’s Gift is more than just individual tributes; it is a collective effort, built through the generosity of a community that understands the importance of reminiscence.
We believe that remembrance is powerful; it keeps love present and creates an opportunity to share stories. These tributes are testaments to lives well-lived and to spirits that deserve to persist. Through personal stories, shared memories, and reflections on the legacy that continues to grow in Rose’s name, we see how memorials bring comfort, strengthen communities, and ensure that no name fades into the past.
Below are the ways our community has come together to honor, support, and sustain this mission.
Testimonials Provided for Rosenda's Gift
Families We Have Helped
Personal stories about the comfort and meaning these memorials have provided, stories that show how deeply remembrance matters. For those navigating grief, having a visible tribute to their loved one offers not only reassurance but also the certainty that their name and memory live on. These testimonials reveal the profound impact of Rosenda’s Gift, illustrating how even the smallest act of honoring someone can bring moments of peace in the hardest times.
Traci Kirk
Thank you soooooo much I am beyond honored to be the 1st recipient in honor of Rose. I am sitting here bawling Iike a baby, and am going now to share this on my page and send to everyone I know. I truly have no words, thank you isn't enough. I will make it my mission to work towards donations to help you do this for others who have a child who is now sleeping under a naked patch of earth. I've had such a hard time since his birthday. This is so wonderful, it's the best gift, it will be cherished forever. You are so amazing! I will be forever grateful for this, my heart hurts so bad, but this beautiful honor bestowed upon my family for my son has brightened my whole world. I am now part of the mission to share and fundraise so that other hurting families can take comfort in knowing their child doesn't have to have a naked patch of earth, but a beautiful memorial marker to commemorate their loved one. This is a miracle, thank you isn't good enough, but my family and I thank you from the bottom of our hearts Bryson would have loved this
Patrica Armor
Thank you so much, Dr. Smiley and Lori, for all you are doing to help parents in honor of your precious daughter 🌹 Rose 🌹
Thank you so much for all the work you did with your broken heart. 💔This pain is huge, but you are using the pain to help others in honor of your precious Rose 🌹. She’s so proud of you. Please take very good care of yourself.
We just got the gorgeous plaque! It’s so large! We absolutely love it! ❤️❤️❤️❤️ The photo is perfect, we are so glad we used this picture. ❤️❤️❤️❤️THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!
Wow!!! So beautiful ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
To our Parents: All of you can also be the recipient of a plaque to honor your child(ren), see RosendasGift.org
I’m honored to be the recipient of this gorgeous titanium plaque, which will honor Sarah for 100 years! We plan to adhere this plaque to a beautiful rock in Sarah’s memorial garden.
Sarah will not be forgotten, and Rosenda’s Gift made this more possible for us! This plaque also has a QR code that will allow everyone to watch a YouTube video my son made to honor Sarah.
I’m so very grateful for our Sweet girls ❤️Rose & Sarah ❤️ Their love will never be forgotten; they live on through us, and their love is eternal. xoxo.
With Much Gratitude,
Trish & Mark Armor
Rachel Delayo
Aubrey was gifted this beautiful memorial brick located at the Santa Ana Zoo. It was donated by the family of JusticeforRose. Rose was a beautiful 14-year-old whose life was taken by a drunk driver in May 2024. Even with the heartbreak and grief her family has to endure, they still can bring a smile to other grieving families.
If anyone would like to donate to an amazing non-profit, please check out https://sites.google.com/view/rosendasgiftorg/gifts-from-rosenda-memorial-gallery
I can never thank her family enough for doing this for my Aubrey. If anyone would like to check the brick out, it’s located by the wishing well at the Santa Ana Zoo. 🦋❤️💕
Justice for Rose 🌹 Justice for Aubrey
Glori Smiley
I am Rosenda’s mother. In the wake of the tragic and heartbreaking loss of our beautiful 14-year-old daughter, one truth has become profoundly clear over the past year: it is essential to our grieving and healing that her memory lives on.
We’ve been given several meaningful opportunities to place items in special locations that honor her, and each one has allowed us to speak her name, share her story, and feel her presence. Though these gestures can never replace her, they bring us moments of comfort and a sense of peace knowing that her legacy continues.
The time, energy, and resources we've devoted to memorializing Rosenda are not just acts of remembrance; they are acts of love. As her story reaches other grieving families, Rosenda’s Gift becomes one of connection and hope. Through these memorials, parents can find solace in knowing their child’s name, like hers, will be spoken for years to come.
Community Support
Highlights of individuals, businesses, or groups who have supported Rosenda’s Gift through donations and fundraisers. This section showcases fundraiser photos, quotes from supporters, and expressions of gratitude for those who have played a pivotal role in sustaining Rosenda’s Gift and ensuring its mission reaches more families.
Amber Crubaugh, owner, Crestline Cafe
Organizing a fundraiser for Rosenda Smiley was deeply important for our small town! This allowed us to come together to honor her memory and support her , her family, and friends. In small tight nit communities like ours, a tragedy like this affects everyone, and fundraisers are a great way to channel our grief into something positive. It not only helps ease some of the financial burdens the family faced but also raised awareness about the devastating consequences of drunk driving. Most importantly, it shows that even in our sorrow, we stand strong together to support one another and ensure that Rosenda’s light continues to shine through the love and solidarity of her community. In a small town, we come together in times of heartbreak, and that is exactly what we did and what we will continue to do!
Carlos Mata, owner, Noah's Restaurant
It was a profound honor to support Rose and the efforts to establish memorials in her name. Memorials hold great significance for grieving families, offering a place of reflection, remembrance, and healing. Rose’s life was marked by a remarkable spirit of kindness, resilience, and compassion, qualities that continue to leave a lasting impact on all who knew her. Honoring her through these memorials not only preserves her legacy but also strengthens the bonds of community, reminding us that in times of sorrow, we find comfort and solidarity in one another. Contributing to this cause was a meaningful way to ensure that Rose’s light continues to shine and to provide a source of solace for those who mourn her loss.
Eloy Vendegna, family friend
My name is Eloy Vendegna, and I am writing this in support of Rosenda's gift. Her legacy and story need to be told. I think about her every day. Gone way too soon, does it still hurt? Yes. People need to remember her. She is gone, but will never be forgotten. The pain will never go away, but using her story to help people with the healing process is her gift. Her memorial and other memorials help those who were close to her cope. Memorials help to bring people together, and togetherness helps the healing process. Rose was a beautiful soul. I remember her and my youngest daughter, Elaina, introducing themselves at Circus Circus when they were three years old. That memory will last forever.
Last year, my youngest daughter and I raised money for Rose's memorial bench. At the golf course, we spent two days during the ladies' and men’s club championships at Chipeta Golf Course. Callaway Golf donated the golf balls. On hole number 10, for a $10.00 donation, if they hit the green on their first shot, they got a sleeve of Callaway super soft golf balls. Elaina spent a total of eight hours out there to help her friend's legacy continue.
Memorial Approvals
This section acknowledges the organizations, city councils, and decision-makers who have approved the placement of memorials in their communities. Their recognition of the importance of remembrance allows these tributes to stand as lasting symbols of love, ensuring that no life is forgotten. Their support helps create meaningful spaces where families and communities can reflect, remember, and honor those they have lost.
Brent Darling, Operations Manager, Lake Gregory Company
Good afternoon, Fillmore, I was honored to be involved in setting a memorial bench at Lake Gregory for Rose. Working for the Lake Gregory Co. has given me the responsibility of taking care of our beautiful lake and making our community better for our families. Being able to install this memorial bench does just that. I found it a privilege to place a bench at the lake to honor Rose and keep her memory alive. The loss of a loved one is never easy and I hope that when this bench is used, it will bring peace and comfort to everyone who knew her. I pray that we all remember that life is precious and we should never take that for granted. Thank you for allowing me to be part of your journey as we honor and remember your daughter.
James White, representing Division Area 5 for the Rim of the World Recreation and Park District Board of Directors
It was important to me to vote Yes on Rose's memorial bench because Rose's death hits home to me personally, as I have a nine-year-old daughter. What happened to Rose could have happened to any of your children, and it just breaks my heart for the Smiley Family 🙏🙏🙏
Memorial Locations
A recognition of the places that have welcomed memorial donations, providing homes for these tributes. Schools, parks, businesses, organizations, and other locations have allowed memorials to become visible reminders of lives that mattered, giving families a place to return, to reflect, and to keep their loved ones close. These locations hold deep significance, turning ordinary spaces into meaningful places of remembrance and connection.
Jenny Hueter, General Manager, Rim of the World Recreation and Park District
Honoring Rose
I wanted to share something deeply meaningful to us at the Rim of the World Recreation and Park District. Our Memorial Policy was created to give families a space for remembrance and healing - a way to honor those they've lost in the places they loved most.
One of the first memorials established under this policy was a bench in Firehouse Park in Running Springs, dedicated to Rose Smiley, who was tragically killed by a drunk driver. Her father, Dr. Fillmore Smiley, found comfort in honoring her memory in a park she dearly loved and where she spent much of her childhood.
Rose’s story is a powerful reminder that parks are more than just recreational spaces - they are personal, emotional spaces filled with memories. Giving families the opportunity to remember their loved ones in these special places is not only meaningful, but something we believe every park district should be proud to offer.
We are honored to give Rose’s memory a place to live on.
Dr. Paul Sevillano, Superintendent, Rim of the World Unified School District
At Rim of the World Unified School District, we are honored and grateful for the memorial bench dedicated to Rosenda Smiley at Rim High School. This tribute honors her memory and gently reminds our students and community of the preciousness of life.
Rosenda’s spirit continues to live on through the lives she touched, and this bench stands as a symbol of love, reflection, remembrance, responsibility, and healing. Rosenda’s memorial bench serves as a symbol of love and loss and a gentle call for our students and community members to make responsible choices and remember that life is fragile.
This tribute helps grieving families remember to keep their loved ones’ stories alive within our mountain community. Rosenda’s memorial serves as a quiet guardian of memory, encouraging all to act with intention, cherish the ones we hold dear, and honor those we’ve lost while reminding us to live with care, compassion, and connection every day.
Serenity Lodge
The loss of a beautifully innocent young woman has the power to deeply affect anyone who learns about her precious life story. Our collective hearts break in unison because we all understand she was taken from this earthly world too soon. We share in appreciating the loveliness of her joyful smile and powerfully impactful legacy. It is an honor to be a small part of celebrating Rosenda's Gift. Rose’s extended family is everyone blessed by immeasurable happiness in truly loving someone in a never-ending, purely unconditional way. This deepest of love exceeds all lifespans as souls are ever present; there is a humbling togetherness in the pain experienced when we’re distanced from our cherished loves. We can look to Rose with inspiration, knowing she is an angelic champion for us all; friends, family, those who are known to us, and those we have not yet encountered. We are as one; bonded through grieving and needing comfort at the thought of her physical departure. The enduring love and admiration shown by her parents and closest ones reminds us to hold on to the unforgettable and irreplaceable light Rose brought to others, and it will continue to shine into the world through her sacred memory. May we always remember the important ways to show loving kindness towards one another and cherish each moment we have to treasure. No greater gift of wisdom could be received.
Volunteer Contributions
A heartfelt acknowledgment of those who have given their time and effort to support Rosenda’s Gift, especially Rose’s friends, who have helped in ways big and small. From organizing events to offering their hands in service, their dedication has shaped the impact of this work, proving that remembrance is not just about looking back but carrying love forward.
Alexa Thomas, Rose's step-sister
It is important for me to volunteer for Rosenda's Gift because it keeps Rose's spirit alive.
Helping with fundraising and memorial efforts allows me to honor her memory and ensure that her legacy of kindness and compassion continues to inspire others.
Helping out with fundraising and events, it makes me feel more connected to Rose, and I really want to make a positive impact in her name.
Addisen Andriesen, Rose's friend
It is important for me to volunteer for Rosenda’s Gift because she wasn’t only my friend but is a special person to not only me but many other people. Rose will have place in my heart forever I will tell her story and make sure she is known no matter what it takes she was my favorite person and still is, even if she's not here she’s still around in my heart listening and taking all of us down the right path even if it's not the path we want to go down. Rose would’ve done that either way in my opinion. It’s important to remember Rose for not only her story but many other things: her personality, her friends, family, she lives in all of us even if you like it or not she had an impact on all of our lives even if you only knew her for a little while. She will forever be important no matter what happens.
Belle Stephens, Rose's friend
I think it’s so important for me to volunteer for Rosenda’s gift because I want everyone to know the story of Rosenda Smiley.
I believe that her story is extremely important for people to learn more about.
It spreads awareness for drunk driving and how badly you could hurt someone that way.
Rose is now forever 14, she truly deserved the world, and that’s why I will forever be there to help Dr. Fillmore Smiley get memorials for his beautiful daughter Rosenda Elizebeth Smiley.
Dalilah Leiva, Rose's friend
Rosendas gift is important to me because it’s to bring awareness to drunk driving, supports the beloved family of Rosenda, keeps her spirit and name alive, something to help her friends and family grieve, and it is important to myself because i’d like to bring awareness to drinking and driving and how it can take someone’s life, to keep my Rosendas name alive and to show how important it is to others. I volunteer to take part in Rosendas gift because i’d like to keep Rosendas name alive.
Kylee Beaver, Rose's friend
Exactly 333 days ago, I lost someone so dear and important to me and many others, Rose. In order to honor her, I believe that putting up memorials is one of the most important things someone can do for a lost loved one. Rose's memorials have helped many, including me, find peace and feel closer to her. Whenever I’m at one of the benches or plagues, I feel that rose is with me and I feel some peace in the situation. I hope and believe that Rosenda’s Gift can help other people feel that way. The purpose of this charity is to help people who have lost loved ones, and I truly do believe that is exactly what we are doing. Another thing that has helped a lot is volunteering to help events for Rose. It makes me happy to know that I can still help Rose and have a part in what her amazing father and mother are doing for her.
Brooklyn Rangal, Rose's friend
Getting memorials is important to me because having memorials in place creates a sense of connection and peace among the people who sit at the benches or with the plaques. Having memorials is also important for creating a lasting legacy for people who live on before I die to see and hear about Rose's story. I’ve tried to help out as much as I can with getting these benches into our (elementary, middle, and high) schools to show the students and staff the consequences of drunk driving and the importance of Rose's story.
Notes of Love & Support
Messages from those touched by Rosenda’s Gift—handwritten cards, emails, and social media sentiments that reflect the deep emotional reach of the charity. These heartfelt words, whether from grieving families or those inspired by Rose’s legacy, serve as reminders of the lasting importance of remembrance.
Meghan Murphy, Attorney at Law
I have a daughter the same age as Rose, who would have started high school with Rose at Rim in August 2024. It's hard to imagine the pain that Rose's parents have endured since her passing, but when I force myself to go there, the thought of losing my little girl is unbearable.
I first reached out to Rose's parents to offer my sympathies and to offer assistance if needed. I learned of the organization Dr. Smiley envisioned creating, one dedicated to helping parents who lost a child memorialize their loved one, and I was honored to get to help him accomplish that.
Dr. Smiley recognized through his own experience how challenging and costly it can be to have such memorials erected in public spaces and how important it can be for a parent to make sure their child's memory and legacy live on. He wants to help families who are going through the worst experience of their lives navigate that difficult process.
While my role was small in helping him create the non-profit corporation, I am glad I was able to be a part of such an admirable mission.
Honoring Rose with Grace, Gratitude, and Faith
These cards from Felice convey a deep sentiment of compassionate remembrance and spiritual solace for the loss of Rose. She expresses profound gratitude for being included in efforts to honor Rose's memory, evident in her appreciation for the sticker collection sent by Dr. Smiley. Felice cherishes Rose's positive impact, noting how her beauty and grace changed many lives, and holds a strong belief in heavenly reunion and enduring love. Furthermore, her messages convey active support and respect for Rosenda's Gift, thanking Dr. Smiley for the invitation to fundraising events. Felice intends to make a charitable donation online, wishing every success for the celebration honoring his beautiful daughter.
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Help Suffering Families and DONATE HERE to Make a One-Time Gift
Help Suffering Families and DONATE HERE to Make a One-Time Gift
Bring Comfort to Suffering Families – DONATE HERE to Provide Monthly Support
Bring Comfort to Suffering Families – DONATE HERE to Provide Monthly Support
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