Obituaries
Kassidie McMillin Honored in Memorial Service
The 10-year-old is remembered for her personality, kindness and ability to make people smile.
Dozens of Kassidie Rae McMillin's friends, family members and classmates gathered to remember and honor the the slain fourth grader in Largo on Friday (May 20).
In an emotional ceremony, those who knew Kassidie spoke of her ability to affect people’s lives with her smile and her kindness. At A Life Tribute Funeral Chapel, Pastor Rob Scarallo reminded everyone to “celebrate her life,” although it was all too short.
Kassidie, 10, Tina Marie Foster, 39, on May 12 in their Windemere Apartment in Dunedin. Foster turned the gun on herself and died on the scene. Kassidie clung to life in a coma until her biological father Derrick McMillin on May 14.
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During Friday’s ceremony, Derrick McMillin was composed but emotional when recalling memories of his daughter.
“You were such a little bundle of joy, you were a miracle baby,” McMillin said while choking back tears. "I used to do so many things with you. I will forever miss going places with you. You were a smart little girl, you were strong, and for this you will continue to be my inspiration.”
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“I love you Kassidie Rae McMillin … I always will.”
At the behest of the McMillin family, Scarallo encouraged friends and family members to come forward and share stories and thoughts about Kassidie.
Everyone from Kassidie's school principal Monika Wolcott, to her cousins and classmates took the podium and fondly recalled a girl who loved the color purple and enjoyed riding her scooter.
Before mourners exited the chapel for a dove-releasing ceremony, Wolcott read a poem dedicated to Kassidie by her teacher Heather Bennett and other San Jose staff members.
Go now our child
The time has come
All tasks are done
There are others waiting there for you
And songs yet to be sung
Go quietly, go softly
Leave all pain and fear behind
Today has left a part of you
In our hearts, our souls and minds
We’ll remember you, our dear one, as we lay down to sleep
Well remember that you made us smile
Although it makes us weep
As you go to face your future
And you go to touch the sky
Know that God makes all things possible
Angels never die
Go now our child
Your time has come
All worldly tasks are done
There are others waiting there for you
And songs yet to be sung
