In a heart-wrenching moment, Vanessa Carter recently shared a poignant video from a tribute held at her daughter Gianna’s school, where they honored the young athlete by retiring her basketball jersey. Tragically, both NBA legend Kobe Carter and 13-year-old Gianna were lost in a helicopter crash on January 26. Since then, heartfelt tributes have emerged from around the world, celebrating Kobe’s legacy and the bright spirit of Gianna.
At Harbor Day School in Newport Beach, where Gianna was a beloved student, her classmates and teachers gathered to share their memories of her. Vanessa posted clips on her social media, capturing the emotional tributes from those who knew Gianna best. It’s unimaginable to grasp the depth of Vanessa’s sorrow after losing both her husband and one of her daughters, but her commitment to keeping their memories alive is evident through her efforts.
A Lasting Legacy
During the tribute, a school representative emotionally announced that Gianna would be the last person to wear the number two jersey for the Seahawk basketball team, a testament to her passion for the sport. The jersey will now hang in the gym as a symbol of her legacy. Vanessa wrote on Instagram, “My Gigi. I love you! I miss you. You’ve taught us all that no act of kindness is ever too small,” expressing her immense pride and love for her daughter.
As part of the tribute, Gianna’s friends performed Maroon 5’s “Memories,” and it was clear that the heartfelt performance resonated deeply with everyone present. Yunga Webb, Gianna’s former adviser and music teacher, spoke about her humility and the light she brought to those around her, saying, “She didn’t need to brag, just needed to be a light wherever she stood.”
Keeping Her Memory Alive
In a touching detail, Webb shared how Gianna’s classmates continue to honor her memory during morning roll call by saying “here” whenever her name is called, ensuring that she remains a part of their daily lives. Vanessa also expressed her love for Gianna in a touching post, saying, “I’ve been so lucky to have woken up to see your gorgeous face and amazing smile for 13 years. Mommy loves you to the moon and back.”
As Vanessa navigates this profound loss, she finds solace in the love and support of those around her who are grieving alongside her while remembering the incredible person Gianna was. For more on this emotional journey, check out another one of our blog posts here.
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Conclusion
In summary, Vanessa Carter’s heartfelt tribute to her daughter Gianna, who was honored at her school, highlights the profound impact of loss and the importance of keeping memories alive. The emotional farewell resonated deeply with family, friends, and the community, showcasing Gianna’s spirit and the love that continues to surround her.