Breanna Smith radiated beauty, grace and humility in a way that left a mark on people.

Many Limestone County residents came to know her through her battle with acute myeloid leukemia and through the dedicated group of law-enforcement officers — Breanna’s husband, Justin Smith, among them — who prayed, encouraged and raised money for her medical costs and travel.

On Thursday night, Breanna died following septic shock, said Stephen Young, public information officer for the Limestone County Sheriff’s Office. 

On Friday, a sheriff’s deputy, his young son, Landon, and other friends and family had to begin the unthinkable chore of living life without her.

Over the last few years, sheriff’s employees had donated their sick days so Justin could be at Breanna’s bedside and cover expenses. Over the last few years, many hundreds of Limestone County residents had dug into their pockets to donate to one of the many fundraisers held for the family. Many hundreds more had reached into their hearts to offer prayers and words of encouragement to soothe Breanna and her family on a Facebook page titled Breanna’s Prayer Warriors. Her broad smile and kind replies were always thanks enough.

Breanna will be laid to rest in the coming days amid the shock of death and spring’s promise of life. 

A gofundme account has been set up to defray Breanna’s funeral costs. 

http://Www.gofundme.com/BreannasBurialFund.