The towns of Zumbrota and Pine Island are grieving the sudden passing of 16-year-old Carley Howard. She was a student who was remembered for her smile and calm way of uniting people.
Her unexpected death left classmates, teachers, and neighbours trying to understand how someone so full of life could be gone.
Carley was unbelievably kind; she stopped in the hallway to check on a friend who had a bad day or sent messages to remind people they were valued.
Fellow students recall the unique way she made even the timid peers feel noticed. Teachers described her as cheerful, polite, and always helpful with the activities in class.
Waves of tributes are online as the news of her death spreads.
Messages like “the world feels dimmer without her” and “she always made you feel included” are all over social media with hashtags in her honor.
Her family has asked to grieve in private, and they have yet to share details about how she died.
The school has arranged for counselors for students to help them cope with the loss.
Information regarding the memorial service will be made available soon.
