Emily Anne Mandell

December 8, 2006 ~ March 30, 2009
On March 30, 2009 Emily Anne Mandell of Reston, Virginia passed away at Children's Hospital Boston, Boston, Massachusetts. Emily is a blessing to her loving parents Brian & Katie Mandell. She is also survived by her devoted grandparents, Greg & Cheryle Robison & Mike & Sandy Mandell. She will be missed by her Golden Retriever "Trotter" & she has touched so many lives in her short life.
Funeral Home:
Money & King Funeral Home
171 W. Maple Ave.
Vienna, VA
US 22180
Funeral Home:
Money & King Funeral Home
171 W. Maple Ave.
Vienna, VA
US 22180
I never met Emily in person, but I followed her story through Carepages, and I thought about your whole family every day. I am so, so sorry that you have had to say goodbye to Emily, but she will always be remembered for her bravery, her love for you, and her beautiful smile.
We are always thinking of all of you and I still have Emily’s valentine picture on my computer. Love Aunt Cherie and Uncle Gary
Words cannot express how you and your family feel with such a loss, but prayers hopefully can lift each and every one of you up. Emily touched many lives during her short time here on earth, heaven has gained another beautiful angel, one that has definately left her “fingerprint” here with her family and friends, but one that will be missed dearly each and everyday. Her couragious fight was one we can all be thankful we had the opportunity to follow – she has amazed many.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during your time of loss. Emily was very fortunate to have the two of you as parents. You did an amazing job.
I’m very sorry for your loss. I followed Emily’s story on Carepages ever since the story appeared in The Danbury New Times in CT. She was such a brave and beautiful little girl. I will continue to pray for all of you.
My thoughts, prayers, and love are with you and all of your family during this incredibly difficult time. Take care of each other…
May you have the strength you need to get you through this very sad time. I have followed Emily’s story from almost day one and I cannot believe it has come to an end. Heaven is blessed with a brand new angel. My words are replaced by tears…..God Bless your family.
Mr. and Mrs. Brian Mandell, I am so truly sorry for your loss. I am at a loss for words with which to express my sadness at Emilys passing at such a young age. One can only hope that other children may not need to go through what Emily experienced during her time in this world. Although it is right to grieve at her passing, realize completely accepted she will be amongst God and His angels. Mr. Mandell, I speak on behalf of the rest of my 8th Grade science class at Thoreau back in the 2003-2004 school year when I say that we (MHS and JMHS Class of 2008) are truly sorry for your loss. I regret that I will be unable to attend the Life Celebration and the funeral, but I have no doubt that my emotions will be shared by all. Sincerely, John Maguire, UMW Class of 2012
We are all at a loss for words. We just want you to know how much we love you and are so sorry Emily’s journey here in this life has come to an end. We know she is a perfect angel and has been met with loving arms from grandma and grandpa Robison and so many others. All our love, Geri, Sean, Ryan and Amanda
Emily will be missed dearly. Not only by you, but by everyone who knew her or even knew of her. I know she is now happy and free. She is in an amazing place surrounded by amazing people and basking in God’s eternal love. I pray that some of those Heavenly rays will make their way down to you and help heal your broken hearts. God bless you always.
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Mandell, We are thinking about you at this difficult time. I’ve written a poem for Emily, and I wanted to make sure you got it. Sincerely, Dov (and his family) Emily Mighty Emily her power so true Shes changed so many lives Never a thought without her goes Her binding strength restores us all Serving others is a reason for being Our love for her will never stop We walk the road in gentle pathways Together we stand by her side Innocence and purity unchanged Strength is ageless Her song will forever be sung The child who has all respect and admiration A map of honor traced for her She deserves no less Inspiration in her blood She has altered so many lives Be brave and straight in troubled times Time is relative and may eventually pass But the thought of her will never loosen Emilys image and soul everlastingly eternal
We will miss you little Emily, we were blessed to be tiny part of your life. We will try to look after your Mom and Dad for you.
Our thougths and prayers are with you and will continue to be. We have followed your journey with Emily from the very beginning and your courage and strength has always been amazing. Emily will always be your angel and be with you forever. Thank you for allowing us to follow this unbelieveable journey through Carepages. It was wonderful to be able to travel with you because of it. We will pray for a cure. Know we will be thinking of you especially during these few days and always. Hang on tight to each other and give yourself time. You have been amazing to us. Much love to your whole family.
Dear Katie and Brian, Please accept my condolences and prayers during this difficult time. Your courage, strength, perseverance, and faith in God are an inspiration. You are the most loving, caring, and selfless parents. Your angel Emily is now in God’s presence watching over you. Sincerely, Rosemary Muldoon
Our deepest condolences to your family. Emily was a beautiful, darling little girl. Such a brave little warrior. We hope and pray that someday they will be able to figure out how to deal with ATRT, so our beautiful, innocent little children don’t have to suffer from such a horrid disease. Many hugs and prayers for you all, Shelly, Mommy to Blake Kurtz (ATRT), and Family
Dear Mr & Mrs Mandell- I am really sorry about this.She was so brave and I am amazed at how well she did! Emily was so inspiring for someone so young. ~Elizabeth Leavitt and family
Our condoleances and prayers to the family. Emily will be dearly missed.
I don’t think you will ever know how many lives Emily touched during her short but powerful journey here. We live hundred of miles away and never met her, but we grieve her loss as if she were part of our family. Our hearts are with you. The Hamann Family
Dear Katie & Brian, Words are not adequate to express the sorrow we feel for the loss of your precious baby girl. Emily has touched the lives of so many and she continues to be an inspiration to everyone. We feel blessed and lucky to have known such beauty. You have shown us all what love is in its truest form. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you now and always. We love you, Kelin & Loren Dotts
Dear Katie and Brian, Our deepest sympathies and prayers are with you at this difficult time. We will always love and remember your beautiful girl, Emily Anne. She will be forever in our hearts and we will miss her abundantly. Words cannot express the sorrow and sadness we feel for you right now. You are two very special people and we love you very much. Hold tight now to knowing that Emily is in the palm of Gods hand. But know she will always be your littlest Angel watching over you and giving you an added cushion of love and light. Your friends, Deanne and Bradley
Katie and Brian: My children Travis and Melanie are both former students who had Brian as a science teacher at Thoreau. Emily was born on Travis’s birthday the year that Travis was in Brian’s class and Melanie was in Brian’s class last year when Emily’s illness began. We followed Emily’s story through the Carepages website and have been amazed at Emily’s brave fight and read with sadness when her situation took a turn for the worse. Emily touched the lives of numerous people, many of whom never had the privilege of meeting her. Thank you for sharing Emily and her story with us; she is an inspiration. We are so sorry for your loss; our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Carol, Eddie, Travis and Melanie Johnson
Dear Katie and Brian, Emily was a blessing to everyone whose life she touched and she touched mine. She came from a long line of courageous and caring people, both of you, Cheryle and Greg as well as Brian’s parents. Emily could not have picked better parents or grandparents. Your love for her inspired us all and I am honored to know people like you. I know the Lord entrusted this precious child into your care because you are such special people. I am glad she is now safe with Him, happy and well, but I know you will always miss her. My prayers are with you.
Brian and Katie, As so many others have, I’ve followed Emily’s progress since I read about her story on the internet. Because of this, I’ve talked about your family to others over the past year as though I know you. There are so many of us who have never had the opportunity to meet you that are grieving with you now. Though we are saddened by your loss we are grateful that Emily no longer suffers. May the many thoughts, prayers, hugs and presence of loved ones provide you with much comfort over the next few days as well as in the coming months. Kindest regards, The Baker Family
Wow, what a difference one life makes. Emily touched more people in her short two years than most do in a lifetime. Emily will certainly never be forgotten. Brian and Katie, I send my deepest condolences to two incredibly strong, inspiring and selfless parents. Thank you for sharing Emily with us all.
My prayers are with you and your family. I have not loss a child so I really can’t say that I know how you feel. But, just the thought of it, I can only wonder. Stay encourage a co-worker of your father at the Department of Education – Joyce Mays
Katie and Brian – The impact Emily and her fight had on me and so many others is beyond words. She gave us someone to cheer for and cry for, and inspired us in countless ways. By reading all the messages left on her website over the last year, its clear Emilys courage affected us all. She truly left the world a better place My thoughts are with you both
Dear Mandell family, In speaking on behalf of my husband Tom & our kids, Nicole & Matt, we would like to express our heartfelt condolences on Emilys passing. Although we had never met Emily, we were told of this special girl through her Grandfather Greg. We feel like Emily has been a part of our life for the past year. She has touched our whole family and will always be remembered. May Emilys parents & family find comfort in knowing that Emily is not in pain any longer. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Brian and Katie, You are in our constant thoughts and prayers. Emily was a true inspiration to so many people and she touched so many lives. Our sincere condolences in your loss. She will forever be loved.
Although I never personally knew Emily, I followed her story every step of the way. I am glad she is in a better place now, and her family is in my thoughts and prayers.
I, unfortunatly, was not lucky enough to meet Emily, but I know, Mr. and Mrs. Mandell, that she was in the hands of two loving parents. I can’t even image what you are going through, and yet my heart is still breaking. You are constantly in my thoughts.
I am so sorry to hear about the passing of Emily. I supported her along her journey, and I wish the best for the Mandell family.
I have followed your precious daughter’s story through the year and know what a fighter she was; what a beautiful spirit!! My heart aches for you but also rests knowing that one day you will hold your baby in peace and full health again as that is His desire. Sending many prayers to your family during this difficult time. Love, Kirsten
We are so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you in this difficult time.
Brian and Katie, (Mr. Mandell to Greg), We are deeply saddened to hear of the loss of your little Emily. How fortunate you were to have had her in your lives, and for Emily to have had such loving parents. May she now rest in peace, watching over you both. She will be forever in many hearts. Janet and Greg Franko (former Thoreau student)
Dear Brian and Katie, We recently became aware of Emily’s illness and brave fight, and we cannot begin to tell you just how much your beautiful daughter has touched our lives. We are so sorry for your loss. Emily is at peace now. We hope you find peace and comfort in the wonderful, most special memories you have of your little girl. You are in our thoughts and prayers. -Courtney, Tim, and Danny Coyne
I am saddened to learn of the death of Emily. Whenever I hear of a youth’s death, I recall words spoken many years ago. Although it is a terrific loss for a family to have a child die, Heavenly Father has a greater need for the child’s presence in Heaven at this time. Eventually, as time passes, the family will rejoice in the knowledge of families can be forever. May you feel the Lord’s presence at your time of sorrow, and feel His love as He comforts you. BRUCE Hamilton Ward, Ashburn VA Stake)
To the Mandell and Robison Family: God looked around His garden and He Found an empty place. He then looked down upon this earth, and saw her little tired face. He put his arms around her and lifted her to rest. God’s garden must be beautiful, He always takes the best. He knew that she was suffering, he knew she was in pain. So He closed her weary eyelids, and whispered, Peace be thine. Although it broke your hearts to lose her know she didn’t go alone, for part of you went with her the day God called her home. Although I have never meet Emily, I have heard of her precious journey of life from her proud grandfather Greg. In visiting Greg’s office I remember seeing family pictures and most of all Little Miss Emily’s beautiful face. May you all find comfort at this difficult time. With Loving Memories, Adrienne Hutchings and Family
Dear Mr. and Mrs Mandell, I am truly sorry for your loss.Mr. Mandell, you told me last year that “anything great is worth fighting for, ” and you did just that. Emily is a hero in all of our hearts.Her story has touched so many people. God is watching over you and taking amazing care of Emily.
To the Mandell and Robison Families: I just dont have the words to say that would adequately convey my sympathy to all of you at Emilys passing. She seemed to be such a wonderful little bouquet from Gods Garden. I am just so sorry for your loss. Please know that each of you is in my prayers during this difficult time.
I am so sorry for your loss. I never met Emily, but I would always ask Greg how she was doing. I called her the ‘little fighter’ because she was so strong. I will continue to keep your family in my prayers.
Mr. Mandell, a friend sent me this poem after I lost someone special. It has always warmed my heart. I hope it helps you and your family in this difficult time. Please know that you and your family are in our hearts. Do not stand at my grave and weep; I am not there. I do not sleep. I am a thousand winds that blow. I am the diamond glints on snow. I am the sunlight on ripened grain. I am the gentle autumn rain. When you awaken in the morning’s hush I am the swift uplifting rush Of quiet birds in circled flight. I am the soft stars that shine at night. Do not stand at my grave and cry; I am not there. I did not die.
Mandells, Your journey has touched so many people. Your strength and faith have inspired us and showed us how to be strong. You guys are the best parents/family Emily could have asked for. Stay strong, you are all in our hearts.
Brian & Katie, Very sorry to hear about your loss. My heartfelt sympathy and prayers. Sri
Dear Mandells, It is amazing how one persons life can affect a whole community. Please know that all of us at Thoreau will always be there for you during your time of grieving. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
My heart goes out to you at this time & there are no words to help to ease your pain. But joyful memories will over time help & knowing that Emily is at peace. My prayers are with you all.
How heartbroken we are to hear about little Emily. May the love of our Heavenly Father bless you with great comfort, peace, and a reassurance that you will be with her again. We miss seeing you–
I’m so sorry for you loss. May you find peace and love in the memories you cherish. Greg Robison’s co-worker
Mr & Mrs. Mandell, My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. I pray for your strength during this most difficult time. I learned of Emily from the time of her birth thru her grandfather and am truly sadded by her passing. Bernice Byrd US Department of Education
Dear Mandell & Robison Families, Words can not express how deeply sorry I am for the loss of your dear Emily. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this very sad time.
Dear Mandell Family, your courage is an inspiration to all. Thank you for sharing your little angel Emily’s life with all of us. May God bless you and give you peace. Lisa Shade’s family (Thoreau 8th grade)
Katie, Brian and the Mandells and Robisons, I am deeply sorry for the loss of your precious Emily Anne. I work with Christie and she has shared stories of your families and of this struggle. I have been praying for little Emily since I first heard of her illness. Though I never met Emily, she has had an impact on my life and she will never be forgotten. I will continue to pray for all of you in this time of intense sorrow.
Katie, Brian and family: You don’t know me, but I know Allie Loht through a website we both frequent. She had shared your story with me and I was moved to tears. I have prayed for your family every night before my son and I go to bed. In Sept of 2005 we lost our oldest son Alexander to prematurity, he was 4.5 months old. My heart goes out to you and I will continue to pray for your strength, comfort and peace knowing that Emily is now rocking with Jesus and is happy and pain free. May you hold close the memories that mean the most to you and if you ever want to talk feel free to e mail me. God Bless you and all of Emily’s family in this difficult time.
Emily’s sweet spirit and beautiful life will be with me always. We have never met, but please know that you have touched my heart forever. Your Emily is so very loved.
Katie and Brian… I am so sorry to hear about your loss. Your family will be in my prayers. I wish peace to be with you. Lovingly, Aimee Phipps
The Mandell Family: Not a day will go by where your precious Angel will not be in my thoughts. I am so sorry that you lost the love of your lives so early. But with one tragedy will come many rewards. She has touched so many peoples lives in just a short time that words could not even begin to explain. You are Beautiful, strong, and very Faithful, and everything will be ok. For your angel is now sitting with God, smiling and laughing and watching over you, and keeping you safe as you did for her. Stay strong. All my Love Katy Kanan
Dear Katie and Brian, Please know that in this time of saddness the love and prayers of so many are with you. Emily and her heroic efforts have touched so many people. She brought people back to God. Her work was done and so God called her home but her spirit will be with us forever.
Dear Katie, Brian & Family, I and many others have been your unseen prayer partners since we were made aware of little Emily’s life struggle through Rose Dunnigan. It has been said that some people are here for a Reason, a Season or a Lifetime. Emily Anne was sent here to teach us all the value of what life is all about. She was here for only a few Seasons but what an impact she had on all of us in such a short time. Now she is with the Lord and her memory will serve all of us through our Lifetime to appreciate every moment we have with each other and to allow God to love us as his little ones. Thank you for sharing your daughter with us and may her spirit continue to bless you because for her you were her guardian angels. Your love will always be remembered by her and one day may we all meet Emily Anne Mandell because I know she will be waiting to greet each and every one of us who prayed for her and her safe passage. Love, Fr. Tom
I am a priest-friend of Harold and Rose Kirk Dunnegan, and they have kept me informed about your struggles and your joys. Please know that you have been in my prayers all these many weeks, and they continue now. I know that your hearts and the heart of your dear daughter are forever meshed in love and affection. I pray that the glory of Easter will soothe your mind and hearts and give you the consolation that God wants to share with all of us. May God continue to touch you with his comfort. Fr. James R. Day, O.SS.T. St. Ann Church Bristol, PA
Dearests, What a brave, sweet and loving little girl. Such strong, loving parents and family. I am so glad you have one another. It’s heart warming to know you have many caring friends and supporters. I met you at Clint and Leah’s rehearsal and wedding last June. It was a happy time and it was then I first put on Emily’s little green recovery bracelet. I will always cherish it’s meaning and continue to wear it for you, her family, as you mourn and heal. Thank you for including me in your journey. May peace come to you all, as it surely has to Emily. Love, Mary-Beth
Dear Emily Anne Mandell, Sweet Little Child, you’re in good hands. Please watch over Mom and Dad. Blaine Barham
Dear Katie and Brian – We love you more than you will ever know. You are amazing people and amazing parents. We have marveled at your strength and courage over the past two years. Watching you love Emily with every ounce of your being was inspirational. You have taught us all what true love is. Dear Emily – We love you more than you will ever know. We are going to miss you. You will be with us always – every minute of every day. Thank you for teaching us so much. Your bravery and courage will forever be a source of strength for us. You are a true fighter. There was always just something about you – everyone felt it. Perfect strangers were drawn to you, wanting to be a part of that intangible thing that just made everyone feel so happy and filled with love. I wish I could tell you again how much you mean to me and how thankful I am to know you. I love you, Em. With all our love, Christie, TJ and Kate
Dear Katie and Bryan, I want to express my deepest sympathy for you and your family. I cannot begin to imagine how difficult this must be for you. All your friends at Forest Grove have you in their hearts and prayers. Jan Harper
Through the internet ever strangers got to experience the miracle of Emily. I pray her parents find peace in knowing that Emily is now in the arms of our Lord and His loving Mother. She is the one praying now for her parents and giving THEM the courage to go on.
We heard about Emily through our friend, Fr. Tom. We cannot begin to know just how you feel. We are so sorry for your loss and continue to pray for your family. Many people were praying for Emily to get better, but God needed her. Although we did not know Emily, we can see that she must have been so very special. With love and prayers, Rich and Phyllis
Dear Mandell Family- I am so sorry to hear of Emily’s passing. I did not have the pleasure of meeting your little angle, but only know of her from e-mails from a friend. She sounds like a beautiful child with a great big heart. I just wanted to let you know that you all are in my prayers. As a parent of two young children, I don’t know that I could have maintained such courage, composure, and faith during such a tramatic time. It sounds like you did this, and also made the most of the time that you all had together as a family. God bless you and little Emily. -Cindy Zarate, Alexandria, VA
Dear Katie and Bryan: I am very sorry for your loss. Your baby Emily certainly touched many lives and how proud of her you must be. May the Lord bless you and help you through this sorrowful time. Sincerly,Sharon (Rose’s cousin)
To the Mandell & Robison Families: -So sorry about your baby angel.
Dear Katie and Bryan, Through our dear friend, Fr. Tom Morris, we heard of your sweet Emily. She and you have been a part of our daily prayers for months. We will keep you in prayer and in our hearts at this difficult time. May God grant you peace.
I am so sorry for your loss. You are in my thoughts.
May your little girl’s memory be for a blessing, she was such a brave baby, and you are such loving parents to sustain such a loss.
The lives little Emily touched go far and near, and are all blessed by the love surrounding her.
May Emily’s memory be eternal. My heart aches for your loss. She is now in a place where there is no sickness nor sorrow nor suffering. Eternal memory! The Matyuf family
I was shocked to hear of your loss. Please know how very sorry I am. For the lives she has touched she will forever fill our lives with sunshine and our hearts with love.