It is impossible to sum up in words all that Alaina was and all she meant to her family, friends & community. Alaina was a vibrant, determined & accomplished young woman, loved by all who knew her. She sought after the beauty in the world and others. Alaina was happiest while spending time with her family and friends, her dogs, working hard and making a difference. To make a difference, Alaina found opportunities to serve others. She served her community through her participation in the Marjory Stoneman Douglas JROTC program and by giving of her time as a volunteer for the “Helping Hands” program of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints. As a first-year Cadet, Alaina achieved the highest rank possible for a Freshman. She was awarded ‘Cadet of the Month’ in only her second month, a rare honor for a 1st-year cadet.
While we will not have the opportunity to watch her grow to become the amazing woman we know she would be, we choose to take an eternal perspective. We are grateful for the knowledge that Alaina is a part of our eternal family and that we will be reunited with her. This knowledge and abiding faith in our Heavenly Father’s plan gives us the strength to endure this most difficult trial.
“Live every day as though it’s your last” was her advice to friends and so she lived her life in faith, not fear. Alaina was a light to all who encountered her. Alaina’s light lives on.
Ryan, Kelly, Ian, Meghan & Patrick Petty
