CHESTERFIELD COUNTY, Va. -- Virginia Rose Vandermark captured the the hearts of thousands in Central Virginia and around the nation.
The 4-year-old from Chesterfield passed away in the arms of her parents Tuesday morning after fighting a rare cancer.
On Saturday, family, friends, and the community came to Southside Church of the Nazarene to celebrate the life of the beautiful girl.
"Daddy loves you, I miss you, my heart is broken," said Jonathan Vandermark, Virginia Rose's father, "I see and hear you in everything."
Virginia Rose's mother, father, and other family members shared memories of Virginia Rose with those at the service.
Jonathan, Virginia Rose and Jennifer Vandermark
"I loved her more than anyone could imagine," said Jennifer Vandermark, Virginia Rose's mother, "I would have a terrible day at work and when I returned home her smile would lift my spirit."
As a family of faith, members of the church and others in the community have been reaching out to offer help or any support from the family since the moment they found out Virginia Rose was sick.
"We just poured out in prayer and love, and cards," said Wayne Ellis, the worship pastor at Southside Church of the Nazarene, "anything we could possibly do to make it easier for her and easier for them."
Virginia Rose Vandermark
The family has since started the Virginia Rose AML Foundation, which is aimed at giving and helping other families fight cancer as well as hospitals.
"Thank you Virginia for the joy you brought to us, and rest sweetheart, you've earned it," said Virginia Rose's grandmother.
Click here for more information on the Virginia Rose AML Foundation
