Ansley’s spirit lives on for many
Ansley Smith loved her pet dog and chinchilla. She especially enjoyed dancing. Close friends called her “AA.” (CONTRIBUTED)
MADISON – The vivacious spirit and resolve of seven-year-old Ansley Abigail Smith will live on within the hearts of many people in the Madison area.
Her close friends called her “AA.” When at home, Ansley cherished time with her dog Jazzabell, her chinchilla Ricky Bobby, grandmother Vanesa, sister Lacy and her parents J.R. and Cassie Smith.
In May 2014, doctors admitted Ansley to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, Tenn. for 60 weeks of chemotherapy. Ansley had Stage 3 Rhabdomyosarcoma cancer.
After routine appointments for an ear infection, doctors had found a large mass in Ansley’s sinus area and palette that was eroding the bone leading to her skull.
Ansley couldn’t finish kindergarten at Madison Elementary School but graduated from kindergarten at St. Jude. She also pursued other study while in the Memphis hospital.
In fall 2013, Ansley met Berlin Detulleo in Nikki Griffin’s kindergarten class at Madison elementary and at The Dance Company. Berlin spearheaded drives to help Ansley’s family with the “Fight for Ansley” boot camp at Body Creations Inc. and “Candy for Ansley” sessions at JFD Photography & Design.
Other friends of Ansley held rummage sales and sports events.
Ansley loved to dance. She studied the art form at The Dance Company.
Owners Beth Cannon and Julie George issued a remembrance for Ansley on The Dance Company’s Facebook page: “It is with a heavy heart that we share that sweet Ansley Smith has earned her angel wings. We ask that you join us in praying for her family during this difficult time.”
Ansley passed away on July 7. Berryhill Funeral Home in Huntsville coordinated services for the family on July 10.
Residents can donate to an account for the Smith family at Redstone Federal Credit Union. The account number is “Smith Family Fund. Account # 51008830689.” In addition, a GoFundMe page is available at gofundme.com/yvgg897y.
