Family of teen killed in Nov. 26 tragedy creates scholarships

Friday, December 19, 2008
Nevada Daily Mail

The family of Emily Ann Debrine, a 15-year-old Nevada High School student killed in a traffic crash on U.S. 54 Highway, near Deerfield, on Nov. 26, is instituting two scholarships in her honor.

Emily was passionate about golf and about giving to others, said her mother Melissa LaNear, so it's fitting to remember her with scholarships that will help other students in the future.

"We ask that you keep her spirit alive by smiling more often and being gracious toward others," a letter given to the Nevada Daily Mail in order to let the community know of the family's desires.

Scholarships are being developed for Lady Tiger Golf and humanitarianism.

"We ask that donations be made to the Emily Ann DeBrine Foundation, a non-profit organization established to ensure that Emily's dreams will be carried on," the letter continued.

Contributions may be made at any US Bank location.

"In addition to the establishment of two scholarships… we will be contributing to programs that Emily was passionate about. All donations received will be utilized to positively impact the youth in Nevada, as Emily would have wanted," the letter said.

Emily earned a varsity letter in golf in 2007, and continued to golf this year. She participated in other activities such as YMCA volleyball, softball, and the student council.

More information about Emily's life and the foundation can be found at www.emilyanndebrine.com.

Emily also was a prolific poet, and a collection of her poetry can be found on the Web site as well, along with a photo gallery and other information.

"The family of Emily Ann DeBrine would like to express our deep appreciation for the support and generosity of friends, admirers and the Nevada community. It comforts us to know that Emily positively impacted the lives of so many. A special thank you to Ferry Funeral Home, The Nevada School District, May's Floral, Coach Brian Leonard, Katelyn Triplett, Dawn Boileau, Lisa McBrien, Jesse Ornelas and the many others that have lent their support during this tragedy," LaNear's letter stated.

The foundation also is planning the first of what are planned as annual Emily Ann DeBrine Memorial Golf Tournament events, slated for May 9, 2009, at the Frank E. Peters Golf Course, with all proceeds to benefit the foundation.

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I would like to thank the Nevada Daily News for this beautiful article. Your editor, sales, and administrative staff have been fantastic to deal with during this tragedy. Thank you for publishing my letter to the editor in The Weekend Herald-Tribune 12/13/08. It provided our family and The Martin family comfort. The layout in The Nevada News dated 12/17/08, was truly perfect! Thank you for the extra effort, and graciousness shown towards my family. It is truly appreciated.

Melissa LaNear

-- Posted by MelissaLaNear on Fri, Dec 19, 2008, at 1:23 PM