Samantha Lorraine Root

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Trinity Presbyterian Church
4501 Rahling Road
Little Rock, AR  72223
Tuesday, May 17, 2005
2:30 P.M.
Samantha Lorraine Root

of Little Rock, AR

January 28, 1986 - May 11, 2005

Samantha Lorraine Root, age 19, of Little Rock, got her angel wings on Wednesday, May 11, 2005. Lorraine had courageously struggled to overcome injuries sustained in an automobile accident twenty months ago, September 7, 2003. Born nine minutes after the Space Shuttle Challenger exploded on January 28, 1986, Lorraine condensed a lifetime into her short time on earth. Known for her glowing smile that could light up a room, and her big blue eyes that earned her the name "Old Angel Eyes", she never met a stranger and had a genuine love for people. Lorraine left her mark on everyone she met. She was completely comfortable in her own skin, just being herself. A natural advocate, she was fearless, determined, confident and brave. Lorraine was a writer, a poet, an artist, a ballerina, and an award winner at debate. She enjoyed the limelight, drama, plays, dancing and being the center of attention. An avid Democrat, as a fifth grader, she single handedly stood up for Clinton in her classroom, learning the platform and sharpening her debate skills. Lorraine participated in Model United Nations at her school and won several awards. Her musical taste was broad and eclectic, as was her taste in movies. Her favorite books were TUESDAYS WITH MORRIE and TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD. She adored Lifetime television and gourmet cooking shows, even though she could not cook. Temporarily left behind are her mother, Terrie L. Root, her daddy, Larry R. Root, big brother, Wesley Manus and his wife, Emily, and little sister whom she always watched over, Olivia W. Root. She will be lovingly missed by her two faithful dachshunds, Speak Easy and Skid Row.

A celebration of Lorraine's life will be held on Tuesday, May 17th, 2005 at 2:30 p.m. at Trinity Presbyterian Church at 4501 Rahling Road, Little Rock, Arkansas.

Memorials may be given to CaringBridge.org in honor of Lorraine. Cremation arrangements are by Roller-Chenal Funeral Home (501-224-8300).

Sign online guest book at www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/chenal.


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39 Condolence(s)
Gloria Smith
Oklahoma city, OK
Liked
Saturday, August 24, 2019

Just thinking and randomly thought of lorraine..we went 2 school at Robinson together..she is and always will be missed

Tisa Radcliff
Mountain Home, AR
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Thursday, May 19, 2005

Dear Larry, Terrie & Olivia - I am Jasmin's mother. Jasmin really loves Lorraine, she spoke affectionately of her when she was first at TRR, and each and every time we talked thereafter or went for a visit, we were usually blessed with getting to love Lorraine too. Our family went and stayed the weekend in Little Rock with Jazz on 4-30 & 5-1-05 and we went and visited with Lorraine. I know she recognized Jasmin and she responded to the command Jazz gave her to squeeze her thumb. I said I wanted to be next and encouraged Lorraine to squeeze my thumb, but no luck. I said, I guess she likes you better Jasmin & Lorraine squeezed my thumb so hard! We had a fun time with her, I wish we were able to have known her longer because I know she was an exceptional young woman. We think Jazz will be coming home soon and I know she would like to keep in touch with you guys. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers - we never really understand why God allows certain things to happen, but I do know that in all things God uses them to bless others and bring glory to His Son, Jesus Christ. I know Lorraine touched Jasmin's heart and I believe Jasmin touched Lorraine's heart. If we can be of any help, please do not hesitate to call. I do share your grief, although not as deeply. Love in Christ, Tisa

Doug Henson
Little Rock, AR
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Wednesday, May 18, 2005

To the Root Family: Grief comes uninvited and is never in a hurry to leave. To some measure, it will occupy a room in your heart for a long time. We are never the same after tragedy strikes us. We get through it, but not over it. Each person’s timetable for healing is different. All loss is not the same loss. All grief is not the same grief. May God comfort you and hold you during this time.

Courtney Pledger Wilson
Little Rock, AR
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Tuesday, May 17, 2005

Larry, Terri, and Olivia, My heart is with you and has been so since first hearing of Lorraine's accident. My daughter Miranda who is now at PA has so often passed on to me over the past school year all of the lovely things that have been said to her about Lorraine by her schoolmates and teachers. Lorraine was thought so highly of by all who knew her at school. Please know that you three and Lorraine are in my thoughts and prayers.

Pam Hudspeth
Fayetteville, AR
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Tuesday, May 17, 2005

I am friends with Mary and Helen Feild and am familiar with the situation and how it has been for the last year. My thoughts and prayers are with those of you left behind in this tragedy. She was, indeed, a special person - I have heard this over and over again from Mary and Helen. God bless you all and peace be with you. Pam

The Crockett Family
Oil Trough, AR
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Tuesday, May 17, 2005

Our deepest heartfelt sympathy to your family.I was greatly saddened upon reading Lorraines obituary Sunday.My kids were floored upon hearing of this.Our prayers go out to you. We were in the family room next to you on Sept. 19th and have since moved to NorthEast Ark. You guys have left an impact on us that we will never forget. Lisa Crockett

Lynn
Maumelle, AR
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Tuesday, May 17, 2005

Larry and Terri, You were so lucky to have such a special child although your time with her was painfully cut short. Know that you have many friends that are thinking about you and keeping you in their prayers. Your family has been an inspiration to many others. Lynn Jessup

Lesley Cooper
Little Rock, AR
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Tuesday, May 17, 2005

Though I never knew Lorraine or your family, I've been praying for her and you all ever since I came upon the scene of the accident that tragic day. My thoughts and prayers will continue to be with you. God Bless your family.

Teresa Taber
Bryant, AR
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Tuesday, May 17, 2005

I only knew Lorraine for a short time. I know she will be deeply missed. She never met a stranger and always had a smile on her face. My prayers and throughts will be with you and your family during this time. Just remember she got her angel wings.

Jerry and Carol Mulach
Mayflower, AR
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Tuesday, May 17, 2005

May God's grace comfort you and bring you peace in this time of sorrow.

Allison Pennington
Bee Branch, AR
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Tuesday, May 17, 2005

I did not know Lorraine, however i sort of feel like i knew her. I was also born on 1-28-86 just five minutes before the Space Shuttle Challenger blew up. Like Lorraine i have been in car wrecks, however she was not as lucky as i was. I just want to say that my parents showed me her obituary and how she died hoping to open my eyes as to how i drive because in my two wrecks i could of easily been dead. As i read through the guest book i saw how she had touched many lives and just to say i am another one that she has touched, even though i did not know her, from what i read about her she was a wonderful girl and will be missed terribly. I wish you the best in this hard time and i am truely sorry for your loss.

Bob & Rebecca Kessinger
Little Rock, AR
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Monday, May 16, 2005

Our prayers for you and our condolences.

Monica Rosson
Edna, KS
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Monday, May 16, 2005

I was blessed to have met Lorraine during the time I spent as a physical therapy student at Timber Ridge Ranch. She and her family truly touched my life, and they will always hold a special place in my heart.

Stevie Powell
Benton, AR
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Monday, May 16, 2005

I read about Lorraine in the Sunday paper that she had gotten her angel wings. I am so sad for all of you, as my 22 year old daughter received her angel wings in 1992 in an automobile accident, too; but I know Lorraine is happy and I know how much you miss her. Stay strong and hold each other tight during the next few months. I pray God holds you all close during your sorrow. Your loss is the hardest kind to bear, and your time with her just too short. My God be with you all.

Chessica Porterfield
Sheridan, AR
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Monday, May 16, 2005

Lorraine, Thank you for sharing a year of your life with me at Timber Ridge. I will always remember and appreciate your determination, strength, and sweet, kind spirit. Although I greatly miss you, one day we will meet again and I will get to hear your voice and laughter that I've heard so much about! You've touched my life in so many ways. I love you and miss you. Your family is in my prayers. Chessica Porterfield..aka "Twinkle Toes".

Tom and Angie Greer
Arkadelphia,, AR
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Monday, May 16, 2005

Terri, Larry and Olivia, Our prayers continue for your family. May you find solace and peace through God's love at this difficult time. Tom and Angie Greer

Nelda Traylor
Benton, AR
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Monday, May 16, 2005

I loved having the oppertunity to work with Lorraine. She was a very special girl and touched the heart of everyone she crossed paths with. I miss you, Lorraine. Love- Miss Nelda

Dianne Crites
North Little Rock, AR
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Monday, May 16, 2005

No loss can compare to the loss of a child. My prayers are with you.

Jeanie, Jim, AJ, Nate Berna
Little Rock, AR
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Monday, May 16, 2005

We are so sorry for your loss. Lorraine was a beautiful and special young lady and we are so blessed that she was in our lives for a short time. We will keep you in our hearts and prayers in the coming days. With much love, The Berna Family

Mona Hatley
Hensley, AR
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Monday, May 16, 2005

Mr. & Mrs. Root, Wes and Olivia, Although I did not know Lorraine personally I have kept her in my heart and prayers for a long time. I have thought about her everyday, and I will continue to think about her for years to come. She was a beautiful girl and I know she brought you much joy in her short time on this earth. Please know that my prayers are with you during this difficult time.

Jay Summerlin
Little Rock, AR
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Monday, May 16, 2005

Larry, We have been praying for you and Lorraine through this long and difficult time. I am so sorry for your loss, but take comfort in that she is truly in a better place now. From what I have read, it sounds like she was a very special person. Take care, Jay

Karen, Lauren, Grant & Danny Ballard
Little Rock, AR
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Sunday, May 15, 2005

Terri, Larry, Wes & Olivia, Please know how much you are in our thoughts and prayers right now, as you have been since Lorraine's accident. Grant knew Lorraine, even before Lauren knew Olivia. You are a very special family. Lorraine's life was a well-lived one. We celebrate her life. Karen, Danny, Grant & Lauren

Lew
Little Rock, AR
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Sunday, May 15, 2005

Sending up prayerful thoughts for your family during this difficult time.

Tammy Reeder
Lonoke, AR
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Sunday, May 15, 2005

Many years ago I had the privelege of teaching both Lorraine and Olivia at "The Academy". It was my honor to have know both girls. I am so deeply saddened by hearing of the passing of Lorraine. It sounds like she continued to grow into a lovely young lady. I will keep your family in my thoughts and prayers.

Lauren Turner
Conway, AR
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Sunday, May 15, 2005

God bless your family.

Vicki Morgan
Sherwood, AR
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Sunday, May 15, 2005

Terry, Larry and Olivia, I was so sorry to hear about Loriane. My heart goes out to all of you. The way you described her was exactly the way I remebered her, especially the part of her lighting up a room with just her presence. You all are in my thoughts and prayers.

Katherine Diggs
Little Rock, AR
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Sunday, May 15, 2005

As I was looking for my father's obituary, I found Samantha. Reading about her wonderful life was like watching a movie. I could almost see her in 'The Nutcracker' dancing across the stage or at school debating her classmates. Olivia, I'm sure she's still watching over you. My heart goes out to you, Wesley, your mom and dad, as well as the rest of Samantha's family and friends. I pray that God continue to hold and keep you all in his loving care.

Lyle and Marie Spoerl
Mabelvale, AR
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Saturday, May 14, 2005

We are so sorry for your loss. We are keeping you in our daily thoughts and prayers.

Lyle and Marie Spoerl
Mabelvale, AR
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Saturday, May 14, 2005

Our prayers are with your family. May God continue to give you strength and comfort.

Greg and Tammy Downum
El Dorado, AR
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Saturday, May 14, 2005

Sorry to hear about your loss. We will continue to keep your family in our prayers.

The Thomas Family
Little Rock, AR
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Saturday, May 14, 2005

Lorraine is rejoicing with the angels in heaven. Celebrate her life and the joy she has brought you and others. Your strength has been inspiring and your devotion, amazing. We pray that you will find peace and comfort. God bless you all. Bob and Mickey Thomas Grant, Megan, Riley & Madison

Floye Zimmerman
Little Rock, AR
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Saturday, May 14, 2005

I did not know your daughter, but as I read her obituary, a mirad of emotions swept over me. What joy she must have brought to you in her short life. I smiled when I visualized her fifth grade passion as she championed Bill Clinton, nodded my head in acknowledgement of her young, but already vast appreciation for literature and fine arts, and my eys welled with tears, as my heart felt the pain of her loss by her family members. It seems Samantha was on a quest to fill her short life with everything her hungry mind could embrace. I can only imagine the what you, as parents, went through, as you desperately struggled to keep her, if just for one more hour. The most beautiful wings in Heaven must have come from Gods' own hands... just for Samantha. What a mark she has made on those whose hearts will morn her forever.....even this stranger who will hold her own two daughters even closer.

Buster & Nancy Norris
El Dorado, AR
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Saturday, May 14, 2005

Root Family - How we hurt for you and our prayers are with you. I am so thankful God let our paths cross. We're praying for strength and comfort for you through this time and for the next several weeks to come. We love you.

Killeen DesLauriers and Cat Cronkhite
Little Rock, AR
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Saturday, May 14, 2005

We are so sorry about your loss. I knew Lorraine but I am closer to Olivia. Nonetheless, I will never forget her enthusiasm and smile. We pray your family will be able to endure the grief. This verse has helped us through many sad times. Maybe it will give you some comfort too. "But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint." Isaiah 40:31

Charlie Martin
Little Rock, AR
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Saturday, May 14, 2005

We have been praying for you througout and we continue to pray for you now.

Robert & Iona Steffens
Fairfield Bay, AR
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Saturday, May 14, 2005

Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Know Lorraine was a happy and wonderful person. Words cannot express the way we feel. May God bless you.

B. Kaiye Greto
Cape Coral, FL
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Saturday, May 14, 2005

I didn't know your precious daughter, nor do I know this family, but I read the obituary and my heart both breaks for your family . It breaks because your family will have to go on without your darling daughter and will miss many things, however, my heart is joyful that she leaves behind many, many wonderful memories and this separation, as we all know, is only temporary. ...God bless and be with you at this difficult time in your lives.

Laura Terrell
Belton, TX
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Saturday, May 14, 2005

Our prayers and thoughts are with you. Wishing you all peace and love.

Earl & Joann Goatcher
Clinton, AR
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Saturday, May 14, 2005

Larry and Terri, You two have loved and prayed long for this precious child. We have prayed with you but God now has seen fit to take her home to be with Him. May He comfort your hearts and give you strength to carry on with your lives of ministry to others as she lived hers. With love and prayers, Earl & Joann