Condolences and Reflections for
Samantha Runnion, 5
Stanton, CA



July 2, 2002
"God has a very Special Place in Heaven for the Littlest Angels..."
god bless samantha runion and haer family and in which you will know she will be lookingn down from adove to take care of you and I know this pain is just to real I have been threw it and I kow how it feels to lose a person and the people that I lost are my parents and Im only 12 so god bless you and samantha will bless you too.
kiara gaytan <cortezblanca.sbcglobal.net>
palmdale, california USA - Saturday, April 10, 2004 at 08:45:11 (PDT)
Erin and Family, I have often thought of you often and wish you peace and love. My heart goes out to you so much and I always wish you the best. I have a little girl about Samantha's age who is also a great joy in my life. Your little girl reminds me so much of my own, it makes me appreciate my own daughter even more. I actually think of you often. Every child is such a special gift. I hope that you will have more children. What an incredible person you are. Best wishes to you and your family always.
Barbara Landrith <landrith@comcast.net>
Sacramento, CA USA - Thursday, April 08, 2004 at 21:19:15 (PDT)
I was watching the movie "Adam" - the story of Adam Walsh, then I thought about Samantha.....I just wanted to you to know that Samantha and your family are in our prayers, and may the Lord watch over you and your family always and give you strength.
Cordelia
Cordelia <trustinthelord@socal.rr.com>
Huntington Beach, CA USA - Friday, March 19, 2004 at 20:17:22 (PST)
Dearest Samantha, I will never forget you and only hope and pray that you're in a better place now. Hope to meet you someday and give you a big hug.
Creed Rollins <croll7272@aol.com>
Graytown, OH USA - Tuesday, March 09, 2004 at 13:32:19 (PST)
My thoughts and prayers to you. I hope that your able to reminisce and remember the joy that she brought you in spite of your grief. What a precious child. I pray justice will be done and that the monster who took her life will live with the guilt daily. I also hope that his family will stop their denial and see him for who he is and for what he's done. She is surrounded by angels and will not remember how she left earth. In heaven, there is no sadness, only joy. Love Lorie
Lorie
Sacramento, ca USA - Wednesday, February 25, 2004 at 23:16:15 (PST)
I think of you & your family often- no one nor any living thing should ever endure what you went through or your dear family has been through. I keep you in my heart. I sometimes loose faith and my heart gets heavy when I hear things that have happened to the innocent & pure at heart. I pray for your family's heart and pray they are wrapped in a divine light of comfort some how. I think of you often Samantha and I check often to get the status of the accused - so that justice can somehow be served. God bless ! you are in our hearts forever.
Cheryl & Gingeroo <cherylish1@hotmail.com>
columbus, oh USA - Saturday, February 21, 2004 at 19:02:22 (PST)
Erin, Please know that I have your precious little girl in my prayers every night. I can not imagine how much pain and anguish this tragedy has caused your family. I only ask that God ease your pain, and know, that your beautiful angel is with him in heaven, watching over us.
Renee Cevallos <renee.cevallos@sbcglobal.net>
San Antonio, Tx USA - Tuesday, February 10, 2004 at 13:15:42 (PST)
Dearest Erin and Family, I still think about you all often Samantha is not forgotten even all the way up here in Alaska. Whenever I see or hear a little peter pan song I think of her . I hop and pray that your doing well and that God is keeping you close as he is keeping her close I hope this brings some comfort to you, it brings comfort to me just writing this to you all, and I pray for all the little innocent angels . She is not forgotten .....Dana from Alaska
Dana Nichols <clearwater5@wildak.net>
AK USA - Tuesday, February 10, 2004 at 12:02:19 (PST)
Dear Erin and family, I have thought of you often ever since my family heard the news that your little angel was missing. We are still so very sadden by this tragedy. I admire your strength and your courage. Samantha must be so very proud to have you as her mother. My little daughter is the same age as your daughter. She still often prays for Samanatha and your family. I can't help but cry when I think of the pain that this must have caused you and your family. I stumble through this e-mail in hopes of offering you some sort of comfort and support. Samantha is an angel looking over you and smiling because of the incredible woman you are!!! May God Bless you and Samantha!
Donna Breckel <breckelbunch@aol.com>
Hudson, Oh USA - Monday, February 09, 2004 at 11:24:44 (PST)
I would like to send a word of cheer to little Sam's grandmother. My child gave me one grandson and he has given her Savanna and Hunter. Fifty years after hearing "Momma, I'm having bad dreams; can I sleep with you?" I now see beautiful things.
Grandma Gracie <bizgal@netscape.net>
Portland, OR USA - Saturday, February 07, 2004 at 19:20:54 (PST)
hi
my familys dearest sympathys are with you
i plan on making a page dedicated to samantha & carlie so that there i will place pictures of abducted children.
mina <minas_raven@yahoo.com>
USA - Friday, February 06, 2004 at 20:45:31 (PST)
Would you be interested to come and talk to our community about your experience and how we can better protect our children? Thank you for your time. My thoughts are with you. Beth Aleksinas and Family and Community
Beth Aleksinas <workouts@optonline.net>
morris, ct USA - Friday, February 06, 2004 at 04:56:36 (PST)
It has taken me until now to tell you have much I grieved for you and your little baby, and how I begged God to let me help carry your pain. God bless you and your little Samantha. You will be together again - Trust God. My wife and I had a baby girl on November 5, 2002. Her name is Samantha Paige Bierman
Dan Bierman <Dan_Bierman@Hotmail.com>
Sorrento, ME USA - Thursday, February 05, 2004 at 13:53:29 (PST)
I'm very sorry for the lost, but now she is in heaven. why is this still happening in our nation ? I wish it would stop maybe if capital punishment would go into effect, we should even show this on free tv,
maybe these monsters would thing again. My son died as a child, the hurt is so
over coming then I think about this little girl and I cry my eyes out. This
Nation should have eye for eye when it comes to this sort of sickness. I pray
for her and all of gods children. My heart goes out to all parents and children, now she is with god and never again will this happen. again I am very sorry for your lost.
shelly <none>
chicago, il USA - Wednesday, February 04, 2004 at 11:00:44 (PST)
Im so sorry For your loss, you had a beautiful little girl, and yet you still do, in your heart always and forever
Amber
san diego, ca USA - Monday, February 02, 2004 at 16:54:03 (PST)
I wanted to say how very sorry I am about your little Miss Samantha. I too have two little girls whom I love with all my heart. I can not tell you how happy I am that there will be soon to be a "Samantha's PRIDE" in Wisconsin. I am looking forward to this very speical program, to make sure this will not happen to other children. God bless you and thank you for "Samantha's PRIDE".
Alice Bissonette <albissb@yahoo.com>
Wisconsin Dells, WI USA - Wednesday, January 28, 2004 at 12:33:33 (PST)
hello mother, erin
from another mother, i just wanted to let you know that i have personally prayed for you, samantha and your family. i didnt know your little lady, but she was something special, and knowing that i certainly hope justice will be done, i couldnt imagine how you must feel, but do know there are alot of people good people that are standing right beside you and pray for you. with love and deepest regards, Kera Mccauley
kera mccauley <keramccauley@msn.com>
bellflower, ca USA - Tuesday, January 27, 2004 at 14:23:04 (PST)
Hello Samantha & Erin,
I apologize if my words don't come together quite right, but I just had to say something. I wouldn't feel right if I didn't. I often think about Samantha. I don't get to watch much Television due to my schedule and just recently obtained access to the internet, so I've been pretty much left in the dark as to the latest on Samantha's trial. However, she has always held a place in both my heart and mind. I remember watching the whole thing from the very first hours of her abduction. My infant son had been very ill, so I was home and happened to have the TV on when an alert had came on. The whole tragedy really had a hold of me. I've seen many tragedies on television, but for some reason this was different; it really touched me. I followed it for days and weeks to come. I felt like she was apart of my family. It hurt me so much. I wanted so bad to go visit Samantha's apartment but was not able to. Til this day I wish I would have gotten the bus to pay my respects. I regret not being able to give a proper goodbye and pay my condolences to your precious little girl. I hope you forgive me. This is my way now of saying goodbye for now Samantha. I know one day I will see you and be able to hug you. Maybe you can look after my two little angels. Walter, Jr., age 3 and Xavier, age 2. Your mother is such a strong woman. She's taking her loss and turning it into a lesson for all mommies and daddies. I seen her on TV today, and that is what prompted me to look you up and try and catch up with the latest, since I now have the tools to do so. I ran across this site and it helped me relive that summer we lost you. It really touched me and brought me to tears again. I just had to say something to you and your mom. Once again I'm sorry if my thoughts are out of order, but this was not well thought. I'm just writing what my heart is feeling for you inside. I didn't know you, but I feel like I did and I miss you. I'm sorry about what happened to you. It bothers me so much to think that someone could possibly hurt something so precious and full of life. I wish there was something I could do for you and your mom. I thank your mother however for trying to educate parents and people in our communities in keeping our children safe. I hope people really respond to this. I know I'm willing. If you read this Erin, please send me some information on your project. Well Samantha I have to say goodnight for now. I will say a prayer for you and your mom tonight, but I know your in good hands. Goodnight and god bless you both.
Love,
Selina Maya
Selina Maya <selinamaya@ymcala.org>
Montebello, CA USA - Tuesday, January 27, 2004 at 02:47:23 (PST)
Hi,
When Samantha was taken, I felt was as if she were someone close to me that I couldn't help. Whenever I see her picture or hear her name, I still feel the pain knowing what happened to her. I can only imagine you feel that pain with more intensity. She and my daughter are the same age. Your daughter is a beautiful spirit. Please know she's not forgotten. May God bless you for your own spirit and strength. Best success for the Samantha's Pride. Your family is in my heart.
Bonita Early
Bonita Early <asabonita2@yahoo.com>
Los Angeles, CA USA - Monday, January 26, 2004 at 08:51:12 (PST)
dear samamtha,
when i heard what happened to you i got very frighted. you see i was only in the 6th grade at that time. you are very special to me and your family. i have all the articles form the newspaper about you. hope you are having fun up in heaven. god bless you. amen.
Love, alexandra
alexandra mocalis <mocalis@earthlink.net>
lake elsinore, ca USA - Saturday, January 24, 2004 at 22:23:45 (PST)
Samantha, Its been a couple of years almost and the world will not forget your beautiful innocence. Run with angels. God Bless you Family down here.
Brian Nelson <bmnelson1@msn.com>
orange, CA USA - Monday, January 19, 2004 at 20:47:02 (PST)
Dearest Samantha, I just want you to know that my thoughts are with you and my prayers are with your family. I often think about the tragic event that took your precious life and hope that God will some day explain to me why this happens to innocent little angels like you. Love you and pray for you always, Rena Seryani
Rena Seryani <Rena Seryani@yahoo.com>
San Jose , Ca USA - Friday, January 16, 2004 at 14:16:50 (PST)
Dearest Samantha, haven't left a message for you on this site in a few months, but I want you to know that I still think about you a lot. I wrote to your father over a year ago and a few weeks ago got a christmas card from him. It made me very happy to finally know that he received my card of sympathy when he lost you. From what I read your father is still hurting very badly missing you and I can only hope and pray that someday along with your mother you can be reunited with him as well. We all think about you daily and pray that the monster that took you life gets his well deserved punisment very soon. May God be with your entire family.
Creed Rollins <croll7272@aol.com>
Graytown, OH USA - Friday, January 09, 2004 at 06:52:43 (PST)
ALWAYS TELL YOUR CHILDREN THAT YOU LOVE THEM, NO MATTER WHERE THEY ARE GOING OR WHAT THEY ARE DOING, FOR IT MAY BE THE LAST TIME YOU CAN. LIFE IS JUST A BREATH AND GOD CAN TAKE IT AT ANY TIME. SAMANTHA, YOU HAVE NEVER LEFT MY MIND OR MY HEART FOR ALL THE PAIN YOU MUST HAVE ENDURED AND THE PAIN YOUR LOVED ONES WILL ALWAYS HAVE TO BEAR WITHOUT YOU.
DIANE FOWLER <ONEWHISPER@HOTMAIL.COM>
E.KINGSTON, NH USA - Monday, December 29, 2003 at 18:09:18 (PST)
My friend Marla and I wanted you to know that our thoughts are still with Samantha and her family. We are waiting for the person who took Samantha away from this world to be conficted so that no other child or family will have to deal with such a tragic loss from the monster who did this to her.
Angie Kile
and
Marla Henzel
Angie Kile <angie@siefe.com>
santa barbara, ca USA - Tuesday, December 23, 2003 at 12:50:14 (PST)
My friend Marla and I wanted you to know that our thoughts are still with Samantha and her family. We are waiting for the person who took Samantha away from this world to be conficted so that no other child or family will have to deal with such a tragic loss.
Angie Kile
and
Marla Henzel
Angie Kile <angie@siefe.com>
santa barbara, ca USA - Tuesday, December 23, 2003 at 12:47:07 (PST)
Words can't express how i felt when i say your beautiful little girl on TV, i have two small children, and i could never imagine how i could go on, Erin, you are a very strong person, and may God bless you all, and especially that Angel Samantha that is now in Heaven watching over us all. My daughter asked me what happened when she saw her on TV, i had the courage to be honest with her, and she wanted God to give Samantha a hug, i cried and held her tight, you are in mt thoughts and prayers tonight.
Daniela
USA - Friday, December 12, 2003 at 19:46:03 (PST)
i love you samantha and think of you every day we all miss you in this world but im glad your in a better place where you can never feel hurt or pain again and no one can ever take you away from the place you play good night little angel youll always have a place in my heart where you can be safe
ann
USA - Saturday, December 06, 2003 at 20:56:34 (PST)
What a beautiful girl! Her pictures shine with her smile. May you find the strength to endure this time without her. Rest assured that you will be reunited again. Sharon
Sharon <bishrus@msn.com>
Owatonna, mn USA - Thursday, December 04, 2003 at 15:00:06 (PST)
I was just thinking of Sammantha today, as I do many other days. I try not to think of the horrible way she left this world, it makes one go crazy thinking about it. Instead I picture her in heaven always safe and always happy. I pray for her mom ( and grandmother).I like to think of Erin hugging and kissing and holding her daughter once again. One day in heaven they will meet and be together forevermore ...Someday. May God bless us and help us all!!!
Betty <betulia_21@yahoo.com>
San Bernardino, CA USA - Wednesday, December 03, 2003 at 21:29:09 (PST)
Just a note to Samantha up in heaven and to her family still here. My thoughts are with all of you daily. I pray that her attacker gets his due punishment very soon. I don't think I'll ever forget about Samantha.
Creed Rollins <croll7272@aol.com>
Graytown, OH USA - Tuesday, December 02, 2003 at 09:04:07 (PST)
Samantha is a special girl. She may now be an angel up above. I always pray for Samantha up to now and hope the guy get really nailed down. We pray justice for Samantha who is now seated at the right hand of the Father. We will continue to pray for her. She will not be forgotten forever. She is like a daughter to me now.
Liza Navarro <lisnavarro@attbi.com>
Lakewood, CA USA - Monday, December 01, 2003 at 17:29:48 (PST)
Thinking of you, Samantha, with love today. This world is a better place because you were here. All my love to Erin, and to Erin's mom - Samantha's Grandmother, how her heart must ache. All my love to the other children of the home. Hardly a day has gone by that I have not felt heartache for all of you and all parents, family and friends that have lost little loved ones. I send all of my love in my thoughts lifted up to you in prayer and meditation. God Bless you this day and always.
Mary <skylarinc@vnet.net>
Concord, nc USA - Sunday, November 30, 2003 at 17:28:35 (PST)
Today I was at a tire store getting tires for my Mom's car. There was a little 5 year old girl with her Grandmother, the little girl's name was Patty Ann, she was so sweet. She came up to me so innocent, and asked if I would throw a ball back and forth with her, I said yes. I sat there with this innocent little girl and instantly thought of Samantha. When her Grandmother came over we talked to Patty Ann about talking to strangers. When something as bad as this happens we can't think about there being anything good left in this world. Yet I click on to this guest book and see so much good from all of those who write to you. I pray that all the children are kept safe, and God Bless You, the people who have written and prayed for you, and this Country that it may be safer.
Randy.
Randy Squires <gumbee667@msn.com>
Chicopee, Ma USA - Wednesday, November 12, 2003 at 14:57:02 (PST)
God be with you. I just lost my husband. I hope he is up there with Samantha holding her hand. I know he would be very happy.
Diane Henderson <catmagnet24@aol.com>
Glen Burnie , Md USA - Monday, November 10, 2003 at 22:18:27 (PST)
Each time i think about Samantha, I hug my daughter a little tighter and a little longer. I think of her each time my daughter watches Peter Pan. "YOU CAN FLY, YOU CAN FLY...." I cannot possibly imagine what her mother has gone through. A living hell, I imagine. I hate that we live in a world with crazy people that hurt children. I pray for Samantha's family. I know you must see her darling face whenever you close your eyes. I know she is looking down on all of us with that big smile of hers!
Kristi Pierce <katyebeth98@hotmail.com>
Milton, FL USA - Sunday, November 09, 2003 at 20:53:28 (PST)
To the parents of little Samantha. I am a 39 year old man still single and no children, but if I ever did have any children I would just love a girl. When I heard what happened last year it broke my heart. I prayed for you right away, because I knew you were sentenced to a personal hell that will last for the rest of your life, and for that I am so sorry. Even to this day I will be some where, work or home and not a day has gone by where I haven't thought of you and most times shed a few tears. I don't know you but would do anything to somehow relieve your pain, even if I could somehow take it on myself. No parent or child should ever have to face this pointless tragedy in their lifetime.
I know it wouldn't help, but I wish I could just put my arms around you and tell you how much I care and think about her and you even still. Maybe it is some help to know that she is safe now and will be forever until you meet again.
God Bless you. If there is anything I can do, call on me anytime, I am here. Randy.
Randy Squires <gumbee667@msn.com>
Chicopee, Ma USA - Friday, November 07, 2003 at 10:02:50 (PST)
Just wanted to let you know we thought of you and Samantha today! We think of you often and send our love and prayers. May God watch over you and your family!!
Tracy Cole and Justine (6 years old)
Tracy Cole <bac.tcc@verizon.net>
sherwood, oregon USA - Monday, November 03, 2003 at 16:18:22 (PST)
This is a truly tragic, but this inoccent child is running around with the Angels in Heaven now. God Bless her Family.
Angela Gonzales < >
PHOENIX, AZ USA - Wednesday, October 29, 2003 at 09:58:31 (PST)
She was such a beautiful child. She's got to be one of the bright stars up in the heavens.
shirley g <marlana2002@hotmail.com>
Corpus Christi, TX USA - Saturday, October 18, 2003 at 17:06:54 (PDT)
our deepest symphany goes out to you and your family.we hope the son of a bitch that done that to your baby rots in hell for the rest of his damn life.again we are so sorry for your lost of samantha.may god be with you and your family. the conklin family from wva.
beverly katherine conklin <katherine_conklin>
whitesville, wva USA - Thursday, October 16, 2003 at 20:24:28 (PDT)
Just a note to say Samantha is still thought of and remembered. She was such a beautiful little girl and her smile is enough to fill any heart with joy. The sadness of her loss will not be overcome by the memory of her. She can still bring a smile to our face.
Kresta <kres-ed@worldnet.att.net>
san jose, ca USA - Friday, October 10, 2003 at 08:15:13 (PDT)
Just a note to say Samantha is still thought of and remembered. She was such a beautiful little girl and her smile is enough to fill any heart with joy. The sadness of her loss will not be overcome by the memory of her. She can still bring a smile to our face.
Kresta <kres-ed@worldnet.att.net>
san jose, ca USA - Friday, October 10, 2003 at 08:14:53 (PDT)
she had the smile to warm your heart up.
sandra moon
USA - Tuesday, October 07, 2003 at 17:19:27 (PDT)
DEAR FAMILY OF THIS beautiful angel whatever sick and and
disgusting pervert harmed your daughter is going to pay in hell today or tomorrow
tanya <kittycat365@yahoo.com>
N.O., L.A. USA - Saturday, September 27, 2003 at 10:57:16 (PDT)
Samantha, thoughts of you still visit me daily, the pain is still there knowing that we have all lost you here. I just want you to know that we are all still thinking of you and will make sure that monster that took your life will pay dearly here on earth, and when he does leave this earth, he'll get to meet his maker and get his eternal punishment.
Creed Rollins <croll7272@aol.com>
Pemberville, OH USA - Wednesday, September 24, 2003 at 05:35:17 (PDT)
I remember watching this tradegy unfold on tv. I cried so much and never has that happened to me before,over someone i didnt know. My husband and I just felt like we knew you like our own family. I am 25yrs old, no children of our own yet, but we do believe they will come, and when they do, we know you'll be watching over them from heaven. Erin, and to samantha's daddy, we pray for you always, thank you for sharing your daughter with us. She is remarkably beautiful and we know she is in our future when we all get to heaven. We know she is at home with Jesus and I look forward to meeting her. I dont know if you read all of your notes from different people, but Jesus Loves You and everyone is here for you and your family and our prayers are always with you. Forever in our homes and hearts...love always your brother and sister in Christ...Joel and Jessica Whisner, WV
Jessica Whisner <jowhis78@yahoo.com>
WV USA - Tuesday, September 16, 2003 at 17:10:52 (PDT)
I remember watching this tradegy unfold on tv. I cried so much and never has that happened to me before,over someone i didnt know. My husband and I just felt like we knew you like our own family. I am 25yrs old, no children of our own yet, but we do believe they will come, and when they do, we know you'll be watching over them from heaven. Erin, and to samantha's daddy, we pray for you always, thank you for sharing your daughter with us. She is remarkably beautiful and we know she is in our future when we all get to heaven. We know she is at home with Jesus and I look forward to meeting her. I dont know if you read all of your notes from different people, but Jesus Loves You and everyone is here for you and your family and our prayers are always with you. Forever in our homes and hearts...love always your brother and sister in Christ...Joel and Jessica Whisner, WV
Jessica Whisner <jowhis78@yahoo.com>
WV USA - Tuesday, September 16, 2003 at 17:10:30 (PDT)
I remember watching this tradegy unfold on tv. I cried so much and never has that happened to me before,over someone i didnt know. My husband and I just felt like we knew you like our own family. I am 25yrs old, no children of our own yet, but we do believe they will come, and when they do, we know you'll be watching over them from heaven. Erin, and to samantha's daddy, we pray for you always, thank you for sharing your daughter with us. She is remarkably beautiful and we know she is in our future when we all get to heaven. We know she is at home with Jesus and I look forward to meeting her. I dont know if you read all of your notes from different people, but Jesus Loves You and everyone is here for you and your family and our prayers are always with you. Forever in our homes and hearts...love always your brother and sister in Christ...Joel and Jessica Whisner, WV
Jessica Whisner <jowhis78@yahoo.com>
WV USA - Tuesday, September 16, 2003 at 17:08:59 (PDT)
Samantha,
My three friends who were my neighbors died on Labor day 2003.
There names are Julie, Lindsay and Ian.
You will have a wonderful time with them!
They were great people. And so were you!
Niki <XCuteLilNikiX@aol.com>
USA - Monday, September 08, 2003 at 14:57:48 (PDT)
Samantha,
Beautiful baby, thinking of you today and always.
Joann
Phila, PA USA - Tuesday, September 02, 2003 at 10:51:12 (PDT)
On earth all kinds of people are accepted
Only the best are accepted in heaven! x
A big blue skyful of love to you and your family...xXx
andie boshe <boshe_@hotmail.com>
UK - Tuesday, September 02, 2003 at 06:17:29 (PDT)
DEAR SAMANTHA,
When I first saw the news that you were missing I caried. You looked identical to my little girl who at the time had just turned 6. I sat down and I talked to her about strangers all the stuff a mom is supposed to tell a child. But then I realized that nobody is safe. Samantha you did everything your mommy had probably taught you, you yelled you got your friends attention who went and told an adult. Everthing that you were supposed to but unfortunatly this awful man was too strong for you. your mommy must have been so proud though. I cried for days when I heard that you had been so brutally murdered by such a monster. My daughter and I went to your apartment complez and sat in the courtyard and prayed for hours. She lit a candle and brought a bear and a picture for you.
I hope you are in a safer place and now awaiting you mommy and brothers arrival. Justice will be served for you samantha, I pray everyday for that with my now 7 year old daughter. She often looks at your picture that we got from the internet and says mommy anyone can take you even if you yell and cry... shes right. But I just try to enjoy every moment of her life that Im so lucky to share. Samantha you are in a safer place, we all miss you even though we didnt know you and your family personally you touched each aqnd everyone of us deeply.
Amy
LA HABRA , CA USA - Sunday, August 31, 2003 at 10:52:07 (PDT)
I really don't what to say to you I've wanted to write to you for so long. I just couldn't find the words. I just wanted you to know that my prayers are with you and your family everyday. Samantha was a beautiful little girl. God must have needed her for something else. The service was wonderful. I watched you on Larry King show. You are such a strong person. Remember that we will all be together someday. I can't wait to meet you and your wonderful daughter. I will see you in haven. With Love, Diane
Diane Henderson <catmagnet24@aol.com>
Glen Burnie,, Md. USA - Sunday, August 24, 2003 at 00:07:40 (PDT)
Hi Samantha, we all miss and love you very much. you will always be in our hearts and shine forever in heaven. all my love goes out to you and your family. you will never be forgotten. Love, Donna Walker.
Donna Walker <Donna1046@webtv.net>
Reno, Nv USA - Wednesday, August 20, 2003 at 10:26:13 (PDT)
IF FEEL BAD FOR THE LITTLE ANGEL WHO DIED IN SUCH A AWFUL WAY BUT KNOW THAT GOD THE FATHER IN HEAVEN IS HOLDING HER IN HIS LOVING ARMS AND NO MONSTER CAN EVER HURT HER AGAIN AND THAT THE MOSTER WHO RIPPED HER YOUNG LIFE FROM HER AND HER FAMILIES WILL PAY BIG TIME AND SUFFER MORE THEN SHE DID BECAUSE HIS PAIN WONT EVER END HERS IS OVER.TO SAMANTHA I LIKE TO SAY EVEN THOUGH I DIDNT KNOW YOU I FELT LIKE I DID AND YOU WERE AND ALWAYS WILL BE A SWEET ANGEL IN GODS PROTECTIVE ARMS FOREVER NEVER TO HURT AGAIN HAVE FUN IN HEAVEN SWEETIE...TO ERIN I LIKE TO SAY YOU WERE A GOOD MOTHER TO YOUR DAUGHTER YOU TAUGHT HER ALL THE RIGHT THINGS TO DO AND SAY NEVER BLAME YOUR SELF FOR WHAT HAPPENED IF YOU GET TO THAT POINT DONT LET SATAN WIN BE STRONG EVEN THOUGH I KNOW THATS HARD TO DO WHEN YOU MISS YOUR BABY AND DONT WORRY THAT MOSTER THAT TOOK YOUR BABY WILL PAY A HIGHER PRICE FOR WHAT HES DONE HE WILL NEVER HAVE EVERLASTING LIFE BUT SHE DOES AND YOU WILL SEE HER AGAIN SOME DAY AND YOUR FACE WILL SMILE AGAIN AND THERE WILL BE NO PAIN YOU FEEL OR ANYMORE TEARS YOU CRY... GODBLESS YOUR WHOLE FAMILY AND I PRAY GOD GIVES YOU ALL COMFORT IN JESUS CHRIST NAME AMEN...
ANNA <AN5292@AOL.COM>
SALEM, OREGON UNITED STATES - Saturday, August 16, 2003 at 12:00:49 (PDT)
I HEARD ABOUT THE MURDER OF SAMANTHA RUNION ABOUT A YEAR AGO AND IT STILL MAKES ME SAD INSIDE AND ALSO ANGERY TO THAT IT HAPPENED I PRAYED SHE BE FOUND ALIVE BUT WHEN NEWS CAME OUT SHE WASNT FOUND THAT WAY I PRAYED THEY CATCH THE MONSTER WHO DID IT AND TWO DAYS LATER THEY DID THANK GOD.I FEEL SORRY FOR HER FAMILY THE PAIN AND HELL THEY MUST BE GOING THROUGH WITH OUT THEIR LITTLE GIRL BUT I AM THANKFUL THAT GOD HAS HER AND SHE CANT SUFFER NO MORE ON EARTH BECAUSE OF SOME SICK TWISTED MONTER WHO HAD TO DESTROY HER YOUNG LIFE AND HER FAMILIES TO .BUT I BELIEVE SHE IS A ANGEL IN HEAVEN WAITING FOR HER FAMILY TO MEET HER ONE DAY.GODBLESS ALL HER FAMILY AND MAY GOD ALWAYS KEEP THEM STRONG...
ANNA <AN5292@AOL.COM>
SALEM, OR USA - Saturday, August 16, 2003 at 11:33:40 (PDT)
Does anyone have any of the Runnions email address or screenames?
Samantha <IloveSamanthaR@aol.com>
CA USA - Monday, August 11, 2003 at 11:07:19 (PDT)
Samantha, I still miss you!
Everyone misses you!
Love ya!
Love,
Your friend Niki
Niki <Reneebee22@aol.com or Symone7337@aol.com>
IN USA - Monday, August 11, 2003 at 10:58:14 (PDT)
I see you sweetheart everyday...in the sunshine, in the clouds in the eyes and voices of my two little girls. The Arts Festival was wonderdous! I felt very close to you...I could close my eyes and see you playing on the play ground...I saw your daddy Ken, and met your brother Connor. He is quite the little boy....a little boy who misses his sister. Your daddy is such a good man. Seems I am always handing him things to give to your Mama...But he never seems to mind :) Today, I have cried, as I do everyday, but today you held my hand, and Iam so lucky to have you near me if only for a moment...I miss you so much Angel. My Dearest friend...Your daughters plight has changed a nation....her spirit will change everything...
**Be Brave**
Roylene Ashford <rparker@nu.edu>
Temecula, ca USA - Tuesday, August 05, 2003 at 19:54:32 (PDT)
Samantha just want you to know that I sent purple balloons up to you in your memory with a card attached on the anniversary of our loss of you, I will never forget you.
Creed Rollins <croll7272@aol.com>
graytown, oh USA - Tuesday, August 05, 2003 at 10:57:11 (PDT)
Dearest Erin, My entire family attended the Joyful Child Art Festival at Samantha's school on her birthday. Thank you for sharing your beautiful little angel with all of us. If I had realized that Grandma CoCo was there, I most certainly would have given her a hug. Please do that for me. I also would have liked to have met you, however, I understand your need to celebrate Samantha's birthday in private. Maybe someday we will meet. Thank you for your e-mail last week. May GOD continue to bless you and your entire family. "BE BRAVE" as Samantha watches over you from her wonderful playground in Heaven..All our love and prayers to you and your family.
Judy Musselman <jmusselm@csulb.edu>
Westminster, CA. USA - Wednesday, July 30, 2003 at 15:04:26 (PDT)
I will never forget watching the news last year and seeing Erin pleading for her daughter's return, although sadly we see these cases way to often something about this truly broke my heart. My thoughts and prayers will always include you.God Bless you
Kim Headrick <Frankgrimes75@aol.com>
Blackwood, NJ USA - Sunday, July 27, 2003 at 20:14:17 (PDT)
I am so sorry for your loss! Lets hope this monster gets what he deserves
Renee <rgauthier@aol.com>
USA - Wednesday, July 23, 2003 at 16:39:44 (PDT)
I want to express my condolences to Erin and Samanthas family and friends. I know its been a while now, however, I just found this website. Samantha was a very special little girl. I will never forget her cute little face on the picture that was shown on the news. She is in a very special place and in God's care.
Margaret Mkrtichian
Montebello, CA USA - Wednesday, July 23, 2003 at 05:59:14 (PDT)
My love and prayers go out to you, Erin, I cannot even imagine the grief and loss you are going through. Just know that Samantha is safe and surrounded by love where she is. Your story on Larry King Live touched my heart as a mother, and I feel for the two little girls who had to testify, what strength and courage you all have.
Samantha <Sammie0923@aol.com>
Santa Clarita, CA USA - Friday, July 18, 2003 at 12:50:01 (PDT)
Hi Samantha, You know I always think of you and your family.You are so beautiful.I still cry to this day. When I look at my daughter she reminds me of you because you both look alike. I will keep doing the follow up and make sure there is justice done. I love you so much and take care.
Love you always.. Sonia.
Sonia Santiagp <ssantiago@wheels.com>
chicago, il USA - Thursday, July 17, 2003 at 07:36:00 (PDT)
Dearest Samantha, on this one year anniversary of the day the world lost you I want you to know that surely the world has not forgotten you. May you rest in peace and know that we will see that you get justice.
Creed Rollins
Pemberville, OH USA - Tuesday, July 15, 2003 at 07:56:45 (PDT)
Erin - I think of your sweet beautiful Sammantha who is the same age as my own little girl. She is and will remain in my prayers every day. May God bless you and your family and keep you strong. Remember Sammantha and let her live through you.
Susan
New York, NY USA - Monday, July 14, 2003 at 11:46:41 (PDT)
Dear Erin,
Samantha's sweet little face is forever in the hearts of many....I think of you and your family every day and I pray that God keeps you strong through all that is yet to come. Always know that you are never, ever alone - so many of us are with you in thought and prayer....God love and bless you, Erin.... you are in our hearts always.
Diane <diane@hotmail.com>
Alsip, IL USA - Saturday, July 12, 2003 at 15:48:12 (PDT)
samantha runnion !
princess of heaven +daughter of the world
qaiser iqbal <qaiser97@hotmail.com>
lahore, pakistan - Wednesday, July 09, 2003 at 08:11:00 (PDT)
To Sammantha's family...I continue to pray for you and hope that you have found some comfort in your memories. I can't believe a year has passed by so quickly although I am sure to you it feels like just yesterday. May God Bless you and make you strong.
Barbara <Barbar1018@comcast.net>
USA - Tuesday, July 08, 2003 at 10:40:19 (PDT)
Dearest Samantha, It has almost been a year since you were taken and I want you to know that thousands of us worldwide stand by your family and your memory and will see that your killer gets his due. We will never forget you and what you must have went through on that horrible day and will see this trial through so that justice for you and your family will prevail.
Creed Rollins <croll7272@aol.com>
Pemberville, OH USA - Monday, July 07, 2003 at 06:38:05 (PDT)
Just a note to say Hello & hope your all doing well.
So many of us have followed this story & will continue to do.
Many HUGS to everyone......Maddysgrandma
Kathy <maddysgrandma@webtv.net>
Fallbrook, Ca USA - Tuesday, July 01, 2003 at 11:35:36 (PDT)
To the Runnion family: I`m so sorry for your tremendous loss. My heart aches for you all. I wonder when the perpatrator, of this evil crime, will finally come to justice. My thoughts and my Prayers are with your whole family. Sincerly, Elaine Danfield
ElaineDanfield <elainedanfield@sbcglobal.net>
Sugar Land, Tx. USA - Monday, June 30, 2003 at 08:45:46 (PDT)
mrs runion,Samantha is in heaven,I know because I went there once,when I was sick.It's as real as your kitchen table.God loves you infact he sent his son to die for you.Yes this world is full of tribulation,but God gave man free will-thats why their is evil.We are living in the end times please accept Jesus and know you'll see her again.
Sandra Eberling <lightcareparh25@yahoo.com>
USA - Thursday, May 29, 2003 at 04:12:47 (PDT)
Hey, Samantha, it's me. Niki Beere. I wrote in this guest book 6 months ago. I still miss you alot. You ment everything to me and everyone else. I know you're having lots of fun now. You're always in my heart. I love you.
Love, Nik
Niki Beere <Symone7337@aol.com>
Fort Wayne, IN USA - Monday, May 12, 2003 at 05:52:17 (PDT)
I am very sorry for your lost. We have not given up hope so I hope no one else as. I hope you guys fine this little angel that was sent to you from heaven.
Lula <lula2006>
pomeroy, ohio USA - Friday, May 09, 2003 at 09:54:55 (PDT)
Dearest Samantha, just want you to know that I'll never forget you. You've made such an impression on me, you're in my thoughts daily and I can't wait until that animal Avila gets his due. But I know you're either in heaven or waiting to be resurrected. May your family continue to have strength to go on without you and I hope they know that they will be reunited with you someday.
Creed Rollins <croll7272@aol.com>
Pemberville, OH USA - Tuesday, April 22, 2003 at 05:27:56 (PDT)
I am so Sorry for your loss. I have thought about Sammantha everyday since she was reported missing. What a beatiful child, she is now safe in heaven looking down on you and your family. Always remember all the wonderful things about Sammantha and keep her memory Alive. God Bless you and your family, your all in our prayers. Lori
Lori <lorib_cnceng@hotmail.com>
Roundrock, Tx USA - Friday, April 18, 2003 at 10:20:41 (PDT)
SAMANTHA WAS A BEAUTIFUL ANGEL THAT HEAVEN WAS MISSING. MAY GOD BRING PEACE AND COMFORT TO THE ENTIRE RUNNION FAMILY! SAMANTHA WAS A VERY UNIQUE GIRL, SINCE HER DISAPPERANCE I ALWAYS GOT INVOLVED IN HER CASE I PAYED CLOSE ATTENTION TO ALL THE DETAILS THE MEDIA PROVIDED! WHEN THE DEVASTATING NEWS CAME OUT THAT SAMANTHA HAD BEEN BRUTALLY MURDERED I WEPT AS IF SHE WAS PART OF ME. SAMANTHA LEFT A SPECIAL MARK IN MY HEART I WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER HER. I WANT TO TELL ERIN THAT SHE IS A WONDERFUL EXAMPLE OF STRENGTH AND MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR LOVED ONES. ONCE AGAIN SAMANTHA REST IN PEACE WITH ALL THE OTHER ANGELS IN HEAVEN.
margie
fontana, ca USA - Tuesday, April 08, 2003 at 19:09:00 (PDT)
She has the sweetest face, and the most engaging smile. She
reminds me of my own daughter Molly (age 7) When Sammantha was abducted and we later learned that she had been murdered
I had a few sleepless nights when your child was all I could think of. I've never been so drawn to a complete stranger in my life. I grieve your loss and wish for you some measure of peace, as you go about trying to live without this extraordinary little child. The creature that took her life will long be forgotten, but I will never forget your beautiful baby girl. I hope Grandma CoCo is well. My daughter is very close to her grandma too.
Brenda Kyle <BCGHLK@aol.com>
louisville, ky USA - Wednesday, March 12, 2003 at 20:43:39 (PST)
I came to this condolences site to post a sympathy note for the families of the RI nightclub fire and I saw there was a board to post for little Samantha Runnion. It brought back all of the horrible memories I have about the time she was abducted, how I would cry everytime I saw her precious little face on the news. Even now I sit here with tears in my eyes, agonizing over what that poor, beautiful baby went through in the last moments of her life. Rest assured that the monster who murdered her will suffer a fate worse than anything we can even imagine. But precious, beautiful, wonderful, sweet little Samantha sweetie will forever be in the Heavenly Father's arms, with all of His loving protection and grace around her, forever infinite. Erin you will be reunited with her one day, keep your faith in God and keep believing in Him and His Son. I will pray for you and your family. God Bless and Keep all of you.
Karen Meier Yax <k_yax@yahoo.com>
Almont, Mi USA - Sunday, March 02, 2003 at 16:05:50 (PST)
Dear Mrs. Runnion: I first found this site on a night when I was in great pain over the situation with my daughter. Please know that I truly felt that there was a connection for my daughter with your daughter. We came to your home one night during the memorial time. It was about 10:30 p.m. and my little girl told the officer that she had to get out of the car and talk with you. She was insistant that she had to see you. Of course you were in seclusion with your grief so we wrote you a letter. Now that my daughter has been in this nightmare situation for four weeks, I came to a better understanding of a few things that I would like to share. One is that although I am a Christian, and I have been since 1989, I had never really understood what that meant. I did not have a strong a base in the word as I have been gaining through this trial. I thought that your daughter would become an angel when she died, but I found out that is not what happens when people die. God had the angels, and people are above angels. Samantha your sweet little daughter could not be an angel, because she is a person and she is most dear to God. He loved her before she was ever even born and she will forever live in heaven now. Even though we may never know what it is, one thing is for sure and that is that God had a very special purpose for her. She has meant so much to so many people and her strength and courage must have resulted from the way you raised her. Despite this horrible trial you must know that she is forever safe now with Christ.
Sharon <asurfdream@yahoo.com>
RSM, CA USA - Wednesday, February 26, 2003 at 22:42:10 (PST)
Dear Erin-i want to first give you my deepest sympathy for the tragic loss of samantha-she truly is an angel and the devil that took her away will be dealt with-I followed the every minute of the tragic event-i hope your mother is alright-that had to be so traumatic to her-evry time i see my nieces and nephew i think of your daughter-tears come to my eyes-i really feel terribly bad for you-i hope you can stand strong during the trial-i wish i could be there with you throughout the trial-i will be with you in spirit throughout-i hope you will write back to me-i will feel better when i hear from you-god bless and stay strong-peter
peter martino <pmartino@revere.mec.edu>
revere, ma USA - Monday, February 24, 2003 at 10:44:55 (PST)
Dear Samantha:
I wrote to you about my precious daughter Ariana. Well in the hearing on January 30, 2003 despite the deputies testimony, the CD I had telling that her Dad did it again and the fact that she had been tortured again by his girlfriend, and the expert Judge Silbar gave my baby to her Dad and took away my custody even though there is an open criminal investigation pending. I pray that you watch over her because he has prevented me from talking to her or seeing her since the last time I reported her being assaulted. She is so little and I just pray that you help her to tell when the time presents itself. She is in a prison right now being forced to do things that only you or God would really know. Please help her. I love her and she loved you even though she never knew you.
Sharon Foster <asurfdream@yahoo.com>
RSM, CA USA - Wednesday, February 05, 2003 at 14:38:11 (PST)
WE ALL ARE PRAYING FOR YOU ERIN AND YOUR FAMILY. I ALMOST FEEL LIKE I KNEW SAMATHA, I THINK ABOUT HER OFTEN, I KNOW SHE IS A LITTLE ANGEL SMILING DOWN ON US.
WE LOVE YOU SAMATHA
TAMARA MINK <TAMBEAR@WEBTV.NET>
KY USA - Saturday, February 01, 2003 at 09:14:28 (PST)
Dear Samantha,
When you passed my little girl Ariana wrote your mother a letter telling you how much she loved you and that you were an angel in heaven with God now. Well now I know that you are, and my little girl is in the same type of trouble with her father and his girlfriend and everytime they do something to her I call social services and the sheriff's department and everytime she is too afraid to tell. I pray that you watch over her because last week Judge Silbar gave my baby to her Dad and he has already done something to her. That was in the middle of my Exparte hearing for custody pending an assessment evaluation of Ariana for the abuse and torture. I pray in Jesus name that you give her the courage to tell. The rest of the hearing is January 30, 2003. She told me today during my 2 hour monitored visitation that she is praying to God that he save us. I told her that angels were watching over her and that Jesus would protect her. Thank you, Ariana's loving mother
Sharon Foster <asurfdream@yahoo.com>
Rancho Santa M, CA USA - Sunday, January 26, 2003 at 20:49:54 (PST)
Dearest Samantha, know that we all still think of you daily and I pray to God that there is a heaven because if there is I know you're there. To your family my prayers as well to go on without you, must be very hard. We all await the trial of the scumbag Avila which has finally been set, his death will bring some resolve, but it still is not enough. We all need to wakeup and and watch our children, watch our neighbors children, so that this will never happen again.
Croll7272 <croll7272@aol.com>
Pemberville, oh USA - Tuesday, January 14, 2003 at 04:54:25 (PST)
Hi Samantha, sorry i'm a couple days late, but i want to wish u a very merry xmas and a happy new year. i hope you had a great xmas. i'm sorry that u couldn't spend it with ur family who loves you and misses you so much just like any other child. I miss u so much samantha. u were such a beautiful child on this earth. now u are a beautiful angel in heaven. i want u to know that i will never forget u and i am constantly following the case against the man that hurt you and unfairly took away ur life and dreams. i will keep following it until he is given his sentence. although it will give us all some closure it will never give us relief as to how much we miss you. it's extremely unfair and unbelievable for a person to take away the life of another. well sweet one, take care and remember that i will never forget u. rest in peace. lots of love *
Leila
CA USA - Monday, December 30, 2002 at 01:39:03 (PST)
I fell in love with little Samantha and I prayed so hard.
Take comfort that she will never be hurt again, that there
is a better place and she is there. I will be honored to meet her there.
I am disgusted that our legal system is dragging this trail out. He will burn in Hell forever and it will not makeup
for what he did!
Janet Wier <janet@alaeye.com>
Birmingham, AL USA - Monday, December 23, 2002 at 14:20:46 (PST)
I am truely sorry for your loss. Samantha was a beautiful little girl who did not deserve to be taken away from your family. Samantha did everything possible to fight off that monster from abducting her. It's such a tragedy and I can't imagine the pain you are feeling. I am in law enforcement and I know and have seen those types of monsters before! Parentts need to be aware that molesters come in all types (man and females). No individual has the right to exploit, molest or kill our children or people for that matter. There definitly needs to be harsher penalties for sex offenders so that they are not set free to repeat their crimes or take it even further. There should be no second chance for sex offenders! I don't blame you for being angry at the jury who let him get away with the molestation charges against him previously. Samantha's death could have been avoided had the jury brought him to justice prior to her abduction. People need to start believing the children and to become advocates to make this world a safer place for them.
God bless you and your family and for your little angel above, may she forever have everlasting life.
Michele
Castaic, CA USA - Thursday, December 12, 2002 at 09:19:22 (PST)
May God bless the family.
Justice will be done.
May the memory of this little angel live on.
J. Herrera
Orange County, CA USA - Tuesday, December 10, 2002 at 02:31:24 (PST)
i'm sorry to hear about your child!
penny lane <nap. high school student>
napoleon, ohio USA - Wednesday, December 04, 2002 at 09:14:46 (PST)
I would to give my Condolences, To her family.My HEART goes out to you. I have children and I can NOT imagine what you are going threw. May GOD heal you threw your times...
Valerie Medina <freddys2@msn.com>
Montebello, ca USA - Wednesday, December 04, 2002 at 08:46:30 (PST)
dear runnion family my prayer are with you may god bless you
ANGELA BALDWIN <supercna@lvcm.com>
lasvegas, nv USA - Tuesday, December 03, 2002 at 18:22:06 (PST)
Please accecpt my deepest sympathy on the loss of your dear Samantha. I've had to cope with the death of a loved one, but I can't imagine the sorrow of losing a 5 year old child. I'm sure that fond memories are slowly replacing the grief you felt at first. I'd like to share a few comforting thoughts that helped me to cope with the death of a loved one. The Bible makes the promise: “Your dead ones will live. . . . They will rise up.” —Isaiah 26:19;. Yes, the hope of a resurrection inspires in one a hope like nothing else can. When a child dies, it is particularly hard for the mother. Thus the Bible acknowledges the bitter grief that a mother can feel. (2 Kings 4:27) Of course, it is difficult for the bereaved father as well. “O that I might have died, I myself, instead of you,” lamented King David when his son Absalom died.—2 Samuel 18:33. However we can have hope that God will do as he promises. Jesus Christ himself said: “Do not marvel at this, because the hour is coming in which all those in the memorial tombs will hear his voice and come out.”—John 5:28, 29; Acts 24:15. Please take courage from these Bible accounts involving young children. "Jesus met a funeral procession coming out of the Israelite city of Nain. The dead young man was the only child of a widow. On seeing her extreme grief, Jesus was moved with pity. So, addressing the corpse, he commanded: “Young man, I say to you, Get up!” And the man sat up, and Jesus gave him to his mother.—Luke 7:11-17. As in the case of that widow, there was also great ecstasy when Jesus visited the home of Jairus, a presiding officer of the Jewish synagogue. His 12-year-old daughter had died. But when Jesus arrived at Jairus’ home, he went over to the dead child and said: “Girl, get up!” And she did!—Luke 8:40-56. God holds out a special place for children in his promised paradise as can be seen from these beautiful words by the prophet Isaiah "And the wolf will actually reside for a while with the male lamb, and with the kid the leopard itself will lie down, and the calf and the maned young lion and the well-fed animal all together; and a mere little boy will be leader over them. And the cow and the bear themselves will feed; together their young ones will lie down. And even the lion will eat straw just like the bull. And the sucking child will certainly play upon the hole of the cobra; and upon the light aperture of a poisonous snake will a weaned child actually put his own hand". These are just a few of the many resurrection accounts found in God's Word. When the enemy death strikes, your grief can be great.Even though you may not hope in the resurrection at this time, I invite you to e-mail me if you feel inclined to know more. In any event, please accept my sincere condolences regarding the loss of your beautiful daughter.
Mike Darling <mwdarling@hotmail.com>
Bouctouche , NB Canada - Monday, December 02, 2002 at 12:42:48 (PST)
Dear Runnion Family, Just want you to know that we all will never forget about you and the loss of your daughter Samantha. Its been almost four months and we pray for God to give you strength to go on without her. We all await the trial of the monster that took her from you and know that he will get his due punishment. Just know that Samantha is waiting for you in heaven and someday you'll all be reunited.
Creed Rollins <croll7272@aol.com>
Graytown, OH USA - Thursday, November 14, 2002 at 05:01:00 (PST)
SAMANTHA, YOU ARE ONE OF THE MOST BEAUTIFUL ANGELS I HAVE EVER SEEN AND MY HEAR GOES OUT TO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY. WE PRAYED SO HARD YOU WOULD BE FOUND SAFE, BUT IT DID NOT HAPPEN THAT WAY. THE LORD TOOK YOU HOME WITH HIM AND WILL TAKE CARE OF YOU AND COMFORT YOUR FAMILY. WE LOVE YOU AND MISS YOU. I HAVE 4 BEAUTIFUL GRANDCHILDREN OF MY OWN AND WOULD BE DEVASTATED BY THE LOSS OF ANY OF THEM. PLEASE KNOW, WE WILL CONTINUE TO PRAY FOR THE PROSECUTION OF THE MONSTER WHO DID THIS TO YOU. MAY YOU REST IN PEACE AND MERCY BE WITH YOU ALL THE DAYS TO COME....DONNA
DONNA WHITAKER <DLW5357@PIE.MIDCO.NET>
PIERRE, SD USA - Tuesday, November 12, 2002 at 18:24:13 (PST)
I love you so much, Samantha. I am so sorry you only got 5 years to live. Now you are in heaven where the the Lord and the angels are. I will miss you so much. I never got to know you but it breaks my heart you were killed at such a young age. You are a very cute angel. I love you! See you in heaven later
PS: My Grandpa Brand died 6 years before I was born so you will see him! I love you.
Niki Renee Beere
Fort Wayne, IN USA - Monday, November 11, 2002 at 13:37:02 (PST)
I love you so much, Samantha. I am so sorry you only got 5 years to live. Now you are in heaven where the the Lord and the angels are. I will miss you so much. I never got to know you but it breaks my heart you were killed at such a young age. You are a very cute angel. I love you! See you in heaven later
PS: My Grandpa Brand died 6 years before I was born so you will see him! I love you.
Niki Renee Beere
Fort Wayne, IN USA - Monday, November 11, 2002 at 13:35:17 (PST)
Dearest Runnion family & friends.....Just a note to say we have not forgotten you & pray for you daily.You will always be in our hearts.....Hugs, Kathy
Kathy <maddysgrandma@webtv.net>
Fallbrook, Ca USA - Tuesday, November 05, 2002 at 12:55:40 (PST)
What can a person say to someone who lost someone who was so dear and near. I am hurt and very tearful for you, even though I myself never known you or your daughter,my heart aches.Even now I find myself crying for you, for Samantha,as if she was as close to me as she was to you.Samantha is with Jesus now and she will always be safe and she awaits to be near you again.I'm very sorry her life was short and riped apart from ours.May her memory help other children Love,
From a Mother
Holly Buford <Hollywdz1971@aol.com>
Strang, Ok USA - Tuesday, October 29, 2002 at 07:40:14 (PST)
Dear Erin and family,I know things will never be the same for you,what a horribe loss. it has been 3 months now and i still think about you and Samatha. my heart still just aches for you. I hope you do not let this ripe your family apart as grief will sometimes do.I hope you can find a way to go forward, Erin you were a wonderful mother to your daughter and i hope you can continue to be, you can not let that wacko take everything else from you. I hope you will never feel guilty for loving your other children or your future children. I will continue to pray for you and your family.your daughter was so beautiful and i hope you can be happy again. I know we do not know each other,but if you ever need anything please email me. I told my 4 year old daughter Andrea about Samantha and we had the talk about strangers. there is so many wackos in this world and there is good people too,so I hope you will let good people be there for you.god bless Samantha and each of you. love,Lisa
Lisa Hamza <shamza1@msn.com>
jacksonville, fla USA - Friday, October 18, 2002 at 19:16:41 (PDT)
Dear Erin and family,I know things will never be the same for you,what a horribe loss. it has been 3 months now and i still think about you and Samatha. my heart still just aches for you. I hope you do not let this ripe your family apart as grief will sometimes do.I hope you can find a way to go forward, Erin you were a wonderful mother to your daughter and i hope you can continue to be, you can not let that wacko take everything else from you. I hope you will never feel guilty for loving your other children or your future children. I will continue to pray for you and your family.your daughter was so beautiful and i hope you can be happy again. I know we do not know each other,but if you ever need anything please email me. I told my 4 year old daughter Andrea about Samantha and we had the talk about strangers. there is so many wackos in this world and there is good people too,so I hope you will let good people be there for you.god bless Samantha and each of you. love,Lisa
Lisa Hamza <shamza1@msn.com>
jacksonville, fla USA - Friday, October 18, 2002 at 19:10:43 (PDT)
Hi Samantha, I just want to let you know that I think about you everyday. I didn't know you personally, but hearing & reading so much about you, I feel like I know you, and well, I miss you so much. It breaks my heart to know that you are not here anymore, playing,laughing, being happy, and living your life like any sweet 5 year old child. I just wanted to let you know that I think about you everyday and I will always think about you. You were such a sweet, beautiful, angellic little girl. I keep wishing that this never happened to you. It truly isn't fair. God bless you sweet one. I think about your family too, and hope that they are able to find some peace. Your mother is one strong lady. She has a great heart. She is a very great person. She will be fine. Just keep looking after her and the rest of your family ok sweet one. I love you samantha. *Sweet Angel*
Leila
CA USA - Friday, October 11, 2002 at 16:01:41 (PDT)
To the Runnion Family...My deepest condolences. When I first saw the picture of Sammatha it reminded me of my neice, Barbara Jean who was murdered July 12, 1988. I hope your memories will help you through your grief and she will live on forever in many peoples hearts across the world. May God bless your family and keep you strong through this difficult journey.
Barbara <Barbar1018@comcast.net>
Philadelphia, PA USA - Wednesday, October 09, 2002 at 12:01:53 (PDT)
Dearest Erin: I want to start off by saying you are a strong lady. I have watched all of this on CNN since this happened and I don't think I have cried so hard in my life. Like to say Sammantha you are the most beautiful little angel I ever did see. I prayed so hard for you and I am sorry it did not bring you home to your mommy's loving arms. Erin I have two girls of my own and I can't imagine something like this happening to them and being to get up every day you are my hero because you have been so strong and kind to letting us (world) in to grieve with you. And believe me we all are praying for you and your family every night even now and will continue. I feel like I am a part of your family. She was so beautiful and her smile is there every night I close my eyes. Sammantha I don't know you personally but through your drawings and your family and pictures and those smiles I Love you sweet precious little angel. May you rest in peace and watch over your family and most of all your couragious mommy who misses you and cry's for you every day comfort her and let her know your okay sweetie. your alaways and forever in my heart brown eyes. Sincerely Christine
Christine Foster <Fosterchfst>
Burford, ont Canada - Thursday, October 03, 2002 at 20:13:30 (PDT)
Dear Erin:
I don't want to sound repetitious by repeating everything that is written below, but believe me I feel the same as everyone else. I pray for you daily that you remain strong and have the courage to go on for Samantha. She was darling and I hope you don't mind but I copied her picture off the internet for myself. I also had a beautiful picture of a little girl with wings about Samanthas age. I erased her face and replaced it with Samantha's. So now I have a picture of a precious little angel hanging above my bed, Samantha with her wings. I would be more than happy to make you one also or email you one. If you write and I don't respond immediately its because I don't always have internet access...but I will get back to you.
God Bless you and your family and remember your baby girl has become 'America's Child' It devastated me beyond belief, it simply isn't fair...WHY, WHY, WHY? 'GOD ONLY KNOWS' and who are we to question him?
My heart is with you each and everyday as you struggle to pick up the pieces anndd go on.Maybe after that sick man is convicted and punished for his crime it will bring some kind of peace, if thats possible..
With deepest affection,
A grandmother up north
Melinda Sanders <cinaplum@yahoo.com>
McCloud, CA USA - Thursday, October 03, 2002 at 01:00:53 (PDT)
Dearest Samantha, hope you're doing well in heaven sweet angel. We all still think of you daily, and pray for your family to cope with missing you. Hope to see you someday in heaven, god bless you.
Creed <croll7272@aol.com>
Graytown, OH USA - Wednesday, October 02, 2002 at 15:17:52 (PDT)
Erin, I've been thinking about you all the time. I can't wait to get to spend a little more time talking. You've been in my houghts and prayers every day. I'll talk to you soon.
love and prayers, angie
williamson, angie <carrie mertz @aol.com>
high ridge, mo USA - Saturday, September 21, 2002 at 13:11:05 (PDT)
Dear Erin
I was watching you on CNN tonight from my home in New Zealand and I was very touched by your courage and your strength. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family
Pepe and Patrick
Wellington, New Zealand - Friday, September 20, 2002 at 02:39:25 (PDT)
Dear Erin; I watched you again tonight on the Larry king Show and i felt like I had to write this. My heart aches for that beautiful little girl. I am so sorry that you and your family is faced with sorrow. I loved watching the video of Samantha. It made me cry and smile at the same time. May God love you and be a comfort to you and your family. from a grandmother in tennessee
Harriet Thon <hatiethon@hotmail.com>
USA - Thursday, September 19, 2002 at 23:42:48 (PDT)
Dearest Samantha, just letting you know you are still in my thoughts and prayers everyday.
Creed <croll7272@aol.com>
Graytown, OH USA - Monday, September 16, 2002 at 10:27:12 (PDT)
lo siento mucho erin cielito lindo is we the angels playing and thinking of you erin you will see her again in heaven for eternity. be strong for your new family they need you more thanever sinceramente angelia
angelia berbiglia <angelia47@hotmail.com>
colombia south america, bogota USA - Friday, September 13, 2002 at 18:08:05 (PDT)
Erin and family, Sammantha reminds me of a baby, but with long hair. All young ones do. The big difference with Sammantha that 1,000s of others have seen is her old wisdom. That child was wise beyond her years. An old soul in a babys body. you and your family was given such a gift, I wish with all my heart it would have been a permanent one. But you knew what you had, you knew she was destined for greatness. You were so in touch with your daughter. God also gave you that gift of a wise soul. Who could have imagined this could happenened to such a small child. I do not believe we or children turn into guardian angels, God does not need more by taking our lives. I so believe Sammantha was the best example of what is pure and good in the world. We all do. She is the one that would speak the loudest but with no words. You know this, you always did. That is why I feel you are so strong. I wish with all my heart for you and for the rest of us 'good people' it would not have been in such a way. but you Erin have such a wise mind and soul. Use it to Gods and Jesus glory, for Sammantha's sake. Know where your gifts comes from.
kathy hasselman <kathy-hasselman@webtv.net>
WI USA - Wednesday, September 04, 2002 at 05:30:25 (PDT)
There are really no words to express the condolences that I have for your daughter or any child who's been a victim of pedophilia. I sincerely hope that you'll be able to find a way to rationally cope with this but from my past experiences in this feild I know it'll be hard. Remember the good times even though they were short.
Kenneth Quinn <cork51@aol.com>
Davenport, IA USA - Wednesday, September 04, 2002 at 03:57:02 (PDT)
I can't help but mourn for dear Samantha,
but her memory will fore'er live on in many a heart.
Tho' in this life, the Devil took her from us
in Heaven, she's only at the start.
News of this awful crime swept 'cross the country
like the wildfires that charred the once-green land
With God, she'll wait for you in Heaven
When your time comes, you'll hold her precious hand
The things he did to her
Lord, we dare not mention!
A senseless sacrifice, why was it?
Perhaps, to get the world's attention.
Dear Runnion family:
Words are useless for me to express my horror and condolences for your loss. There are things in life and death that we will never understand. All we can do is make the best of what time we have left. Try to cope from day to day by finding distraction. I do that through writing and music. The three verses above came from my heart. Perhaps there'll be more -- maybe even set to a melody. Time will tell.
Your dear Samamtha was assessed the Supreme Sacrifice. You will live your remaining days on Earth with a gaping void. May God grant you strength and perseverance. Your baby has now been immortalized. From her tragic fate, along with the others, these events have sent shock waves and high-voltage electrical currents throughout the nerves of nearly evrey human being in civilized world. Perhaps now, the children who remain missing and those, God forbid, may be victimized in the future, might finally get the attention they deserve from law-enforcement. Samantha's case demonstratated that jurisdictional rivalries can be overcome for a common goal. Perhaps our leaders will recognize the futility and lunacy of the racially-motivated "War on Drugs" and end it so that all officers and agents currently assigned to Anti-Drug Task Forces can be transferred to Missing Child Task Forces. Perhaps when politicians stand before microphones and cameras telling us they how much they care about "saving our children" they'll be referring to policies that actually WILL.
Sincerly,
Beel
William P. Perry
Bethesda, MD USA - Wednesday, August 28, 2002 at 21:24:38 (PDT)
I can't help but mourn for dear Samantha,
but her memory will fore'er live on in many a heart.
Tho' in this life, the Devil took her from us
in Heaven, she's only at the start.
News of this awful crime swept 'cross the country
like the wildfires that charred the once-green land
With God, she'll wait for you in Heaven
When your time comes, you'll hold her precious hand
The things he did to her
Lord, we dare not mention!
A senseless sacrifice, why was it?
Perhaps, to get the world's attention.
Dear Runnion family:
Words are useless for me to express my horror and condolences for your loss. There are things in life and death that we will never understand. All we can do is make the best of what time we have left. Try to cope from day to day by finding distraction. I do that through writing and music. The three verses above came from my heart. Perhaps there'll be more -- maybe even set to a melody. Time will tell.
Your dear Samamtha was assessed the Supreme Sacrifice. You will live your remaining days on Earth with a gaping void. May God grant you strength and perseverance. Your baby has now been immortalized. From her tragic fate, along with the others, these events have sent shock waves and high-voltage electrical currents throughout the nerves of nearly evrey human being in civilized world. Perhaps now, the children who remain missing and those, God forbid, may be victimized in the future, might finally get the attention they deserve from law-enforcement. Samantha's case demonstratated that jurisdictional rivalries can be overcome for a common goal. Perhaps our leaders will recognize the futility and lunacy of the racially-motivated "War on Drugs" and end it so that all officers and agents currently assigned to Anti-Drug Task Forces can be transferred to Missing Child Task Forces. Perhaps when politicians stand before microphones and cameras telling us they how much they care about "saving our children" they'll be referring to policies that actually WILL.
Sincerly,
Beel
William P. Perry
Bethesda, MD USA - Wednesday, August 28, 2002 at 21:21:36 (PDT)
Please except my deepest condolences. You must be very stong for going on for so long after losing you child. I may not have lost a child, but I have lost a friend and her name to was Samantha we called her Sam. I have also lost my sister. Her dad took her away and I have not seen her for about five years now. But I think of her every day, and I will also keep Samantha in my thoughts. God bless you.
Ashley Thompson <elmo_03us@yahoo.com>
Lawndale, NC USA - Wednesday, August 28, 2002 at 11:12:39 (PDT)
Dearest Samantha, just letting you know we still think of you daily. We pray still for strength to your family to continue on and realize that someday you'll all be reunited. You represent all that is good in the world, and someday soon all that is bad in the world, people like Avila will be gone forever. May you rest in peace, we all will never forget you Samantha.
Rollins <croll7272@aol.com>
Graytown, OH USA - Thursday, August 22, 2002 at 05:15:12 (PDT)
My deepest sympathy to you, Erin, and to all of Samantha's family and friends. I cried everyday during this horrible ordeal. I am so very, very sorry for your loss. Thank you for sharing Samantha's Memorial Service with us via TV from the Crystal Cathedral. I wish you the best with your new foundation set up under Samantha's name. My focus is on changing the laws regarding ALL rapists & rapists/murderers of both adults and children. I am trying to get a momentum going to change the laws in all 50 states to a ONE STRIKE OF PEDOPHILE ACTIVITY OR ADULT RAPE TO LIFE WITHOUT PAROLE. PERIOD. NO EXCEPTION. And for those perverts/terrorists who murder their hostages/captives- the DEATH PENALTY in those states where this is practiced. These monsters cannot be treated nor cured. They need to be permanently removed from society to never hurt another child or person again. All parents need to teach their children regarding "stranger danger," communities need to be vigilant, but the best deterent is to permanently remove these monsters from our streets and neighborhoods. There should be no such thing as a "Registered Sex Offender." How offensive and insulting to the public. Once a pedophile always a pedophile. Lock them up and throw away the key. This measure will save lives.
"Safe Kids"
So. CA- South Bay area, CA USA - Sunday, August 18, 2002 at 21:10:54 (PDT)
i think of samantha at least once a day, since i first saw her picture on my tv screen, i cry for her and i miss her even though i dont know her, i am sure that such a precious child would have no where else to go but fly with the angels.
cindy lavacca <c_lava01@hotmail.com>
chester, ny USA - Saturday, August 17, 2002 at 22:03:39 (PDT)
I just wanted to say you & your family have been with me in my thoughts & prayers from the very minute your beautiful daughter was taken. There have been countless occasions in which I have not been able to contain my tears & emotions while watching you be such a strong mother & woman in front of an entire country expressing your feelings, emotions & grief all at the same time. What a beautiful daughter she was & will always be. Thank you for sharing your sweet home movie clips, memories & most of all that beautiful smile she glistened with to us as a nation & as parents. May you strength in your days to come and peace in the memories you have with and of your daughter. Love to You All from Texas !
Candace Dulock <candyd@ci.waco.tx.us>
Waco , Tx USA - Friday, August 16, 2002 at 12:36:49 (PDT)
As a mother who has also lost a child, I can tell you the grief never goes away. My son was killed by a drunk driver
and I understand what it is like to have that pain as well
as the shock and disbelief that it could happen to me.
For parents its the worst of the worst. I hope that you as parents can someday reflect that your baby girl went home to the arms of god, and by his grace suffering will eventually be easier as days turn into years. God Bless and keep you.
Faith <ladyfaith@cox.net>
Harrah, Ok USA - Friday, August 16, 2002 at 11:10:33 (PDT)
May God be with you through this painful and difficult time. WE mourn for you and for Samantha. She will always be in our hearts and we will never forget her beautiful smile. Our deepest sympathies are with your family.
Kathy Kozlina
Pittsburgh, PA USA - Wednesday, August 14, 2002 at 11:40:31 (PDT)
May God be with you through this painful and difficult time. WE mourn for you and for Samantha. She will always be in our hearts and we will never forget her beautiful smile. Our deepest sympathies are with your family.
Kathy Kozlina
Pittsburgh, PA USA - Wednesday, August 14, 2002 at 11:40:15 (PDT)
With heartfelt thoughts, what a beautiful child and my deepest sympathy. There are no words that I can express that will take away the saddness that is within you. She became everyone's child and I think of her everyday. I live in NYS and you have to see how sad people felt here. She'll always be with you, she'll is now your guardian angel. God bless you!
Jo Ann
NY USA - Wednesday, August 14, 2002 at 06:13:11 (PDT)
With heartfelt thoughts, what a beautiful child and my deepest sympathy. There are no words that I can express that will take away the saddness that is within you. She became everyone's child and I think of her everyday. I live in NYS and you have to see how sad people felt here. She'll always be with you, she'll is now your guardian angel. God bless you!
Jo Ann
NY USA - Wednesday, August 14, 2002 at 06:13:02 (PDT)
Erin, Please accept my condolences on the loss of your beautiful daughter Samantha. I have a 3 year old little girl who I cherish more than life itself and I don't know if I could be as strong as you have been. But, God and Samantha are watching over you and your family.
As much as we try to keep our children safe, people who have no regard for human life are still out there. It angers me to think that this guy got away with it before. But I have faith in the system this time that justice will be heard. I am just so sorry it's at the expense of losing your beloved Samantha. Please know my thoughts are with you and I am praying for you. May Samantha be at peace.
Elise <emrivera99@aol.com>
Monroe Twp, NJ USA - Tuesday, August 13, 2002 at 12:29:54 (PDT)
Please accept my condolences on the loss of your precious little girl Samantha. I have a six year old daughter and I can only imagine the pain you are feeling right now. Please find some comfort in knowing that the God of all Comfort can supply you with the strength you need at this most difficult time in your life. The bible promises us at John 5:28,29 that we have a hope of seeing our dead loved ones again right here on earth but under different circumstances. Please find time to read that comforting thought in the bible. Again, please accept my condolences. I am very sorry for your loss.
Kimberly Bowers <k_bowers1@Juno.com>
USA - Saturday, August 10, 2002 at 04:59:47 (PDT)
Dear Mrs. Runnion, we live in OH and want you to know how heartbreaking your daughter Samantha's death has been for us as well as the entire nation. We are parents of three daughters and when we saw Samantha's picture on the news we saw her as one of our own. Pure evil exists in this world unfortunately and we must all band together to stop it. We've had enough of young children dying at the hands of evil adults. We wish to God we could bring Samantha back but of course we cannot, but we can help to make sure no other child gets hurt like Samantha did. We've cried so much since we heard of Samantha's death and we pray to God that he will give you strength to go on like Samantha would want you to. We and the rest of the world wished that we could have saved her from harm, but since we didn't we want her memory to finally change this wicked system. Let all child abusers and molesters be given life and or death in prison. Harming a child is unacceptable therefore strong punishments are in order. We're not very religious people but we do know Samantha will surely be resurrected in a new world and or taken into heaven with God. I know that someday you'll be reunited with her either in heaven or on earth, that thought makes us very happy. We pray for you and your family each day, you have our respect on how you've maintained composure through all of this. Samantha would be proud. Sincerely Rollins Family, OHIO
Rollins Family <cskot@aol.com>
Graytown, OH USA - Thursday, August 08, 2002 at 20:23:07 (PDT)
There are so many things I would like to say, but my feeble attempts to make myself understood would be too lacking. I send you, the family and friends of Samantha Runnion, my most deeply heartfelt condolences for your terrible, unfathomable loss. Samantha's tragedy struck me more personally than any of the other recent abductions, although I am equally horrified at all of them. For some reason I will never understand, Samantha seemed to touch a special place in my heart, almost as though I knew her. From the other condolences on this message board, I am not the only one who feels this way. I can only wish you peace and joy in her memory, and a quiet kind of grief in the blackest of night. Samantha's hand is upon your heart and brow. She is with you always. May you find solace, and may Samantha find justice. Peace to you all.
Jo <perilous@sithly.com>
North Hollywood, CA USA - Wednesday, August 07, 2002 at 22:13:17 (PDT)
I am sorry to hear about your little girl. I bet she was the light in your eyes. She is with God now. If you ever get sad, just remember she is with the Lord.
Yours,
Summer
Summer <Summergirls0323@aol.com>
USA - Wednesday, August 07, 2002 at 09:56:34 (PDT)
Your little girl is so beautiful. I think of her when I look at my little girl smile. Something like this is so unexplainable. She has touched the hearts of our nation. My sympathy to you Erin and yoyr family. Your little angel watches over you now.
Kim Schu <kimtrione@aol.com>
Elysburg, PA USA - Tuesday, August 06, 2002 at 21:07:32 (PDT)
I want to send my condolences to the Runnion Family. My heart breaks each time a see a picture of your beautiful angel. God Bless You!!!! I will never forget Samantha.
This is From Chante'(10 yrs old):
Your daughter is very beautiful and I don't feel she deserved the evil that was done to her. I will never forget her beautiful face. Take care,
Chante' Hudson
Patricia LaSalle and Daughter Chante' <KrystallizedFlame@hotmail.com>
Modesto, CA USA - Tuesday, August 06, 2002 at 16:12:36 (PDT)
I want to send my condolences to the Runnion Family. My heart breaks each time a see a picture of your beautiful angel. God Bless You!!!! I will never forget Samantha.
This is From Chante'(10 yrs old):
Your daughter is very beautiful and I don't feel she deserved the evil that was done to her. I will never forget her beautiful face. Take care,
Chante' Hudson
Patricia LaSalle and Daughter Chante' <KrystallizedFlame@hotmail.com>
Modesto, CA USA - Tuesday, August 06, 2002 at 16:12:25 (PDT)
Dearest Erin:
I have not been able to get Samantha or you out of my mind and remember both of you in my prayers each night. Samantha somehow, became the little girl that belonged to all Americans, and all of us have grieved for the loss of her. Even though we know that she is in God's hands and is prefectly happy in His love and care, now, as time goes on, it suddenly becomes so real to us that Samantha really will not be coming back. I remember this feeling all too well when I lost my son just over 20 years ago. The reality of it seems to take longer to set in. I can cry with you and hurt with you too and even knowing that this doesn't help for now, it truly will become easier as the years pass by. Then, the best and happiest memories will be what stays foremost in your heart. Samantha will live in all of our hearts forever. Such a beautiful little angel. I heard you say on TV that you always felt she was destined for greatness, but didn't realize that greatness would be in her death. For some reason, this little girl, all by herself, made the whole nation sit up and take notice of so many children that have been stolen from their families and more willing to do something about it. Already, the Amber Alert that went into effect because of Samantha, has already saved the lives of 3 other children. This is all due to Samantha. Yes, she most definitely is fulfilling her destiny to greatness. With all my love and prayers to you and all Samantha's family and friends. God Bless, Mikki
Mikki McBride <Mikki95210@aol.com>
Stockton, CA USA - Sunday, August 04, 2002 at 18:38:13 (PDT)
My heart breaks for your loss....Samantha is such a beautiful beautiful angel.....
a mama <wannabkate@hotmail.com>
Sacramento, CA USA - Friday, August 02, 2002 at 14:28:08 (PDT)
Dear Samantha may you rest in peace.To your family I pray for strength for all of you to go on like Samantha would want you to. Someday you'll all be reunited in a paradise, won't that be wonderful.
Creed <croll7272@aol.com>
Graytown, OH USA - Friday, August 02, 2002 at 12:24:22 (PDT)
Samantha became everyone's little girl, now she is everyone's precious angel. Every time the sun peeks from behind a cloud, I will think of that beautiful smile and say a prayer for "our angel", and for her family and friends, and all whose lives she touched. Keep smiling down on us Samantha! God Bless!
Diane
Swanton, MD USA - Thursday, August 01, 2002 at 20:00:29 (PDT)
I know no words can wipe out your tears, but please accept my condolences.
I do not understand your pain, but please understand that I am also very hurt.
Please teach others to listen to the children closely so no other kids can be hurt like Samantha - what's a beautiful name and what a beautiful smile she has, she lives forever in our heart.
Tuyet-Anh
Sacramento, CA USA - Wednesday, July 31, 2002 at 08:35:49 (PDT)
I am so sorry for your loss Erin. You are a very strong mom.
I am a father of a 2 year old cutest little boy that I love with all fiber of my being. I couldn't have survived this tragedy.I was at the service and I broke down twice feeling as she was my own. Samantha is in the best of hands rightnow. I am so very sorry for your loss. May god bless both of you. With tears, Thomas
Thomas K, <Kissbunster2@aol.com>
Anaheim, Ca USA - Tuesday, July 30, 2002 at 22:52:11 (PDT)
I've cried so much over the fate of your beautiful little girl. It's so hard to understand this evil act. All I can do is to pray for your family, and know that little Samantha is in a happier place now. I watched the funeral service on TV and it was beautiful and moving. I'll never forget what a sweet litlle girl she was and I'll keep praying for you. I'm truly sorry for your loss. God bless.
marguerette <mmlagyak@earthlink.net>
hummelstown, pa USA - Tuesday, July 30, 2002 at 11:34:07 (PDT)
I've cried so much over the fate of your beautiful little girl. It's so hard to understand this evil act. All I can do is to pray for your family, and know that little Samantha is in a happier place now. I watched the funeral service on TV and it was beautiful and moving. I'll never forget what a sweet litlle girl she was and I'll keep praying for you. God bless.
marguerette <mmlagyak@earthlink.net>
hummelstown, pa USA - Tuesday, July 30, 2002 at 11:33:00 (PDT)
My heart goes out to Samantha's family.I am so sorry for your loss.Erin you are in my thoughts and prayers..May God give you strength to get through this...
Karen Flores
El Granada, Ca USA - Monday, July 29, 2002 at 23:19:59 (PDT)
I am sorry for your loss. As parents we expect to go first. What a tragedy. Your lives have been changed forever. Please note that the Bible holds out a resurrection hope for us to see our dead loved ones again right here on earth. You don't have to go to heaven to see them. I know it sounds strange but it's true. If you or anyone else would like to know more about this, please email me. And again I am sorry for your loss.
Kathy Bowers <gbowerssr@msn.com>
Harvey, IL USA - Monday, July 29, 2002 at 05:08:51 (PDT)
I know that I am kinda late on writing this but I want to send my condolences to Samatha's family and friends. Although I didn't know her, I feel a loss. I think that she was a beautiful lil girl and I dont see why anyone would want to put harm to her. She is in Heaven now with her creator and is watching over everyone! Samantha: keep a watch over your family and friends! Happy Birthday to a beautiful angel in heaven! *Love and Prayers* Julie
Julie Bryan <soccerfan_50@hotmail.com>
Luke, Md USA - Sunday, July 28, 2002 at 17:12:13 (PDT)
Dear little, sweet Samantha. I know I'm 2 days late, but HAPPY BIRTHDAY sweet angel. I don't know you, but seeing your pictures and learning so much about you, you are truly a cute, sweet, wonderful, happy, and angellic girl. It's obvious that with your every smile, you truly were happy and absolutely loved life and your dear family. I hope that when I am ready to have children of my own, I have a child just like you: full of life, joy, happiness, love, and your sweetness. You and your mother seemed to have such a wonderful bond. I admire that. Your mother has done such an amazing job raising you. You truly have grown an angel from the day you were born. You touched millions of people's hearts, but sadly, it showed with your death. It's wonderful to know that you are far away from all bad things and are in the arms and love of all other angels and God in heaven. Now fly little one! Fly like your favorite Peter Pan! We love you Samantha. We think about you a lot and will always think about you. You are missed by so many and you will never be forgotten. YOU WILL FOREVER LIVE IN OUR HEARTS.
Dear Erin, I admire your strength and courage through this terrible tragedy. I am sorry for your loss, and wish that in time, you and your family will find peace. Your daughter is truly an angel. She is touching so many people. She will always. She is always smiling to you, and touching your cheek each night telling you she loves you. She will ALWAYS be with you, watching over you, her father, sister, and brother. Take care. We are always thinking about you.
Leila
CA USA - Sunday, July 28, 2002 at 01:59:40 (PDT)
I now I'm a little late, But happy BirthDay sweetheart,
everyone down here misses you, see you in Heaven darling
Ronald
Garden Grove , Ca USA - Saturday, July 27, 2002 at 17:31:54 (PDT)
God bless you in heaven sweet angel! Every day that goes by brings the day that you will be with your friends and family again a little closer. WE LOVE YOU and keep you and your family in our prayers daily. Have fun with the angels precious one!
Brian Latham <clear_blue97@yahoo.com>
Laguna Hills, CA USA - Saturday, July 27, 2002 at 08:25:30 (PDT)
I'm so sad... Each time I read these, I break down, I don't
know how you can be so strong ,, I wish you all the love
God can give you , you have it comeing, best wishes,I have a
8 yr old and it would drive me nuts if this were to happen
Ron
Garden Grove, ca USA - Friday, July 26, 2002 at 20:21:14 (PDT)
Happy Birthday BabyGirl,Mom we know shes happy,shes got her wings and now she can fly like PeterPan,,her favorite! MOM my wife and I feel as if we lost one of our own daughters,she was so so special what an angel,you will alwaysbe in our thoughts and prayers,we will never for get your sweetheart or you, take care!!
Rick,Marla,Lindsey.jessica <Jlrm4@aol.com>
OrlandPark, il USA - Friday, July 26, 2002 at 17:24:00 (PDT)
Happy Birthday Baby Girl,Mom,she has her wings now,I know shes happy,she can fly like peter pan,her favorite,well Mom you will always be in our thoughts and prayers we feel like she was one of our girls,take care Mom !
Rick,Marla,Linz,Jessy <jlrm4@aol.com>
orland park, il USA - Friday, July 26, 2002 at 17:00:06 (PDT)
Happy Birthday Samantha!!! We will light a birthday candle for you today, precious little one. We will never forget your beautiful smile and precious face...now the face of an angel in heaven! You will be forever in our hearts and prayers, sweet baby! WE LOVE YOU!!!
Julissa and Delia, 5 <charlotte454@yahoo.com>
Chicago, IL USA - Friday, July 26, 2002 at 16:42:59 (PDT)
Happy Birthday Sweet Angel-
Erin, we are so very sorry for you loss of your beautiful little girl. We watched your interview with Larry King- you are truly and inspiration and a beautiful person!
She will forever be by your side guilding you the way!
God has his special Angel in heaven now.
We will never forget her Erin, you are in our prayers and our tears.
JoAnn, Kirk and Elyssa
Three Rivers, CA USA - Friday, July 26, 2002 at 13:35:45 (PDT)
HAPPY BIRTHDAY SAMANTHA!
ERIN, I JUST WANTED YOU TO KNOW A WHOLE WORLD OF PEOPLE, BIG AND SMALL ARE THINKING OF YOUR BEAUTIFUL DAUGHTER TODAY. I KNOW GOD HAS EVERY DESIRE OF HER HEART FULFILLED NOW, AND A BIRTHDAY PARTY UP IN HEAVEN EVEN HER LITTLE BRILLIANT IMAGINATION COULD NOT HAVE IMAGINED. MY NIECES ARE JUST A LITTLE OLDER THAN SAMANTHA AND ARE SO ANGRY AND SAD ABOUT WHAT HAS HAPPENED. WE HAVE A BIRTHDAY BALLOON FOR YOUR DAUGHTER WITH PINK & PURPLE FLOWERS ON IT , AND MY NIECES AND NEPHEW ARE GOING TO GO OUTSIDE TODAY AND SAY A PRAYER FOR HER & YOUR FAMILY AND WISH HER A HAPPY BIRTHDAY... AND LET IT GO UP WITH THE WIND TO HER. YOU WILL FOREVER IN OUR PRAYERS AND GOD BLESS YOU AND EVERYONE YOU LOVE.----THE GARCIA FAMILY
THE GARCIA FAMILY <LARRAINE1221@HOTMAIL.COM>
WEST COVINA , CA USA - Friday, July 26, 2002 at 10:52:15 (PDT)
Dear Erin,
I watch the service and watch your interview last night , Erin you are soo brave,couragious and truly beautiful inside out just like Samantha was.. I am a mother of 2 and I cry everyday thinking of Samantha and her sweet smile, I am soo hurt, angry and sad that she is gone,it's so unfair..I can't stop thinking about your tragic loss and wonder how you get though.Samantha was an amazing child and now I know where she got it from:you Erin.I wish i knew you and that I would I had the chance to know Samantha I will never forget her.. Happy birthday samantha! we love you.
Celine
Celine Lynch <celine-lynch@tipi-usa.com>
longwood , FL USA - Friday, July 26, 2002 at 09:49:27 (PDT)
What an unfortunate tragedy. Samantha has certainly become everyone's little girl and my thoughts and prayers are with you. Children are a gift from God and Samantha has touched the lives of an entire nation. She will always be a guiding light for you and your family.
Robert Jacoby <Bobaluch@aol.com>
Chino Hills, CA USA - Friday, July 26, 2002 at 06:49:30 (PDT)
WHAT A PRECIOUS CHILD! I WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER HER SWEET SMILE! I ADMIRE YOUR "BRAVERY" AS YOU DEAL WITH THIS TERRIBLE EXPERIENCE. YOUR DAUGHTER WAS A VERY SPECIAL CHILD. YOU MUST KNOW THIS WHEN YOU SEE HOW SHE HAS TOUCHED THE HEARTS OF THE WORLD. MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH YOUR ENTIRE FAMILY.
Michele Wagoner <michelew@cox.net>
San Juan Capistrano, CA USA - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 22:14:00 (PDT)
We wish to extend our deepest sympathy to the family and friends of Samantha. We will keep you in our prayers. Our hearts go out to you. May God bless you and give you strength and peace.
The Touma and the Vogt families <femmeamericaine@yahoo.com>
Phoenix, Az. USA - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 20:11:28 (PDT)
Terrified Tears
The face of an angel is all that is here,
One beautiful freckle equals one terrified tear.
Not ready to leave but has to go,
Wants to go back but god says no.
Leaveing your life is a scary thought,
I guess its some thing that can't be fought.
A mother, a father, a sister, and friends,
A meaningful life that suddenly ends.
An angel is what she was meant to be,
Now think of all she can see.
Looking over her family night and day,
Saying I love you in her own special way.
In the night we sleep, in the day we cry.
Ahe watches us all from her star in the sky...
By Tanya Delzell
May God Be With Samanthas Hole Family...
Tanya Delzell <babygirl_1023@hotmail.com>
San Juan Capistrano, Ca USA - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 15:49:26 (PDT)
I am so sorry for your lost of your Wounderful Angel Samantha. You are in my prayed Please Take Care...
Tanya Delzell <babygirl_1023@hotmail.com>
San Juan Capistrano, Ca USA - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 15:30:46 (PDT)
I never met samantha but, lived in the area where she was taken not too long ago. she was a beautiful and sweet child who was taken too soon. My heart goes out to the family who lost their little girl. She's now in heaven as an angel and surounded by god's love and his angels. No more pain and suffering, just love, laughter, joy. She will never be forgotten.
kristina gonzalez <christinelikecar2002@yahoo.com>
Santa Ana, Ca USA - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 15:07:15 (PDT)
Little angel from heaven how sweet you smiled, you gave your mom a chance to love you.How we wish we could have known you.We lost some of ourselves when you disappeared, A little bit of us died when we heard the knews. All of us grieve as you fly away.Your innocent heart, your beautiful smile.Little Samantha how we cried for you. And God opened his arms to you today his angels home. So we wipe our tears and hope our prayers reach you.Guide our babies as they walk home each day.Protect our litttle ones as they play outside.You live in our hearts and within each tear is a promise for hope, a vow for justice and a prayer for love.May your soul fly to heaven little samantha, we miss you so much
Melissa Rubio <hnybee79@aol.com>
Santa Ana, CA USA - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 14:14:27 (PDT)
What a beautiful child, who is now an angel in heaven.
Muriel
Mission Viejo, CA USA - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 13:36:59 (PDT)
Our never forgotten angel gone to heaven way to soon. Samantha is now living in heaven with all angels around her comforting her and making her feel right at home beside god. God had a purpuse for her, he allowed her to remind the world of love and unity. She was a brief gift to us all, and just like an opened gift on Christmas morning we all chose our favorite one to play with, Samantha was our favorite. God needed our precious baby back so soon. He allowed her a short life- but she made a hudge impact on the world. She will live in our hearts forever. We must all pray for her loving family- for they also need love and incouragment through this hard time, Samantha is in good hands and is happy- and feels all the love and support the world has shown her. She will be with us always. Now she pays the world back by becoming every little girl and boy in this nation gaurdian angle.
Diana Valdez <dvaldez@yahoo.com>
Costa Mesa, CA USA - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 11:52:41 (PDT)
I am so overwhelmed, as I am sure most of us are, that there is nothing that I can say that I'm sure hasn't already been said. I did not know Samantha and I wish that I had gotten the chance to, she lived maybe 10 minutes away. I watched the service last night with my mom and we sat and cried, what kind of monster would want to hurt such a beautiful angel? I am only 16 and I have a 5 year old brother and if anything happened to him I would not be able to live. Samanthas death, as tragic as it is, has opened so many eyes to the dangers that are out there. Not only adults need to watch children but anyone that is around. Don't let another child be brutalized like this. Samantha~ We all know what a beautiful child you were and remain to be. You brought so many together and it's a shame it took your death to do that. I know you are being a little angel in heaven and you definately are an example that God only takes the best, I am thankful that you were here for 5 short years, and even though I wasn't lucky enough to experience your amazing and beautiful presence I am content in knowing you are with God and I can't wait to meet you in Heaven. Rest In Peace Sweet Samantha...my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Lindsay <hbangel714@earthlink.net>
Huntington Beach, CA USA - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 10:44:51 (PDT)
Samantha didn't choose to be a soldier in a battle between good and evil. But when she was chosen, she fought bravely, and she won. The outpouring of love at her memorial yesterday was an overwhelming testimony of her victory and her enemy's utter defeat.
It's amazing how many people said, "she looks like my daughter". Samantha does look like my 7 year old. That's the lesson she taught us: all children out there are ours! I wish the pain that millions of us feel for this lost daughter could help her family heal.
RR
Walnut Creek, CA USA - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 09:53:05 (PDT)
What a beautiful tribute to a beautiful young lady. I can't imagine the pain you and your family must be going thru at this difficult time. Samantha's death has brought new light and great awareness to mothers like me to protect the little angels here on earth as Samantha watches over them in heaven. Mother to Mother, I wish I could give you a hug in person. But just know my daughter and I hug you every day in our prayers. Our thoughts and prayers will continue for you and your family today and always. Samantha - May you rock in heaven and sing with the angels upon high. Say Hi to my Dad and K's Poppa up their !!
S & K Schuler <sschuler@servitehs.org>
Brea, ca USA - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 09:06:23 (PDT)
To Erin Runnion and Ken Donnelly,
As the parents of our own little girl, not more than a year younger than your Samantha, we wanted to express to you that our hearts, our prayers, and our love are with you during this extremely difficult time.
We cannot truly say anything that will help ease your loss, but simply wanted to let you know that you are not alone in your grief and your sorrow. We share it with you and hope that our energy we send to you can help bring some comfort and peace.
Our love to you, your family and our love to Samantha who is journeying on to a brighter light where nothing can ever extinguish the beauty that she is.
Our deepest sympathies and heartfelt love,
Paul, Christine and Abby Rose Schmidt
Mr and Mrs Paul Schmidt <pbschmidt@direcway.com,cmschmidt@direcway.com>
Orange County, California USA - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 09:03:49 (PDT)
I'm so sorry to hear about your loss. But at least we know that she's up there in heaven, watching out for you mom, as your little guardian angel.
Lucila Torres <torrelb@ssa.co.orange.ca.us>
Anaheim, CA USA - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 08:12:32 (PDT)
" Silent Lamb"
written in the loving memory
of Samantha Runnion
My spirit is quited
I am dumb before man
I am silent before my sheerer
for I am a lamb.
This is why I became
his sacrifice
he preyed on on my innocence
then he took my life.
He is a wolf,
I was a lamb
he " lured " me
right into his hands.
Jesus come for me
comfort my soul
hold me close to you
please, don't let go.
Always, let me be
your precious lamb
sheared by a wolf
disguised as a man.
Always, let me be
thy little lamb
hold me forever
in thy loving
" hands "
" Blessed are the meek for they shall inherit the earth. . .
blessed are the pure in heart for they shall see God "
Andrea Crawford <poetictruth@hotmail.com>
Placentia, Ca USA - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 07:55:34 (PDT)
" Silent Lamb"
written in the loving memory
of Samantha Runnion
My spirit is quited
I am dumb before man
I am silent before my sheerer
for I am a lamb.
This is why I became
his sacrifice
he preyed on on my innocence
then he took my life.
He is a wolf,
I was a lamb
he " lured " me
right into his hands.
Jesus come for me
comfort my soul
hold me close to you
please, don't let go.
Always, let me be
your precious lamb
sheared by a wolf
disguised as a man.
Always, let me be
thy little lamb
hold me forever
in thy loving
" hands "
" Blessed are the meek for they shall inherit the earth
blessed are the pure in heart for they shall see God "
Andrea Crawford <poetictruth@hotmail.com>
Placentia, Ca USA - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 07:54:38 (PDT)
" Silent Lamb"
written in the loving memory
of Samantha Runnion
My spirit is quited
I am dumb before man
I am silent before my sheerer
for I am a lamb.
This is why I became
his sacrifice
he preyed on on my innocence
then he took my life.
He is a wolf
I was a lamb
he " lured " me
right into his hands.
Jesus come for me
comfort my soul
hold me close to you
please, don't let go.
Always, let me be
your precious lamb
sheared by a wolf
disguised as a man.
Always, let me be
thy little lamb
hold me forever
in thy loving
" hands "
" Blessed are the meek for they shall inherit the earth
blessed are the pure in heart for they shall see God "
Andrea Crawford <poetictruth@hotmail.com>
Placentia, Ca USA - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 07:53:37 (PDT)
" Silent Lamb"
written in the loving memory
of Samantha Runnion
My spirit is quited
I am dumb before man
I am silent before my sheerer
for I am a lamb.
This is why I became
his sacrifice
he preyed on on my innocence
then he took my life.
He is a wolf
I was a lamb
he " lured " me
right into his hands.
Jesus come for me
comfort my soul
hold me close to you
please, don't let go
Always, let me be
your precious lamb
sheared by a wolf
disguised as a man
Always, let me be
thy little lamb
hold me forever
in thy loving
" hands "
" Blessed are the meek for they shall inherit the earth
blessed are the pure in heart for they shall see God "
Andrea Crawford <poetictruth@hotmail.com>
Placentia, Ca USA - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 07:52:16 (PDT)
" Silent Lamb"
written in the loving memory
of Samantha Runnion
My spirit is quited
I am dumb before man
I am silent before my sheerer
for I am a lamb
This is why I became
his sacrifice
he preyed on on my innocence
then he took my life
He is a wolf
I was a lamb
he " lured " me
right into his hands
Jesus come for me
comfort my soul
hold me close to you
please, don't let go
Always, let me be
your precious lamb
sheared by a wolf
disguised as a man
Always, let me be
thy little lamb
hold me forever
in thy loving
" hands "
Andrea
" Blessed are the pure in heart
for they shall see God "
Andrea Crawford <poetictruth@hotmail.com>
Placentia, Ca USA - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 07:48:11 (PDT)
though i didnt have the honor of meeting you i think heaven has found one of it's missing angels.
stephie runions <ileane_dover_2000_pnut@yahoo.com>
USA - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 01:14:44 (PDT)
Dear Samantha,
One final goodbye to you. Saw your funeral services on TV tonight. Your Mom is one tough Lady,...but you already know that! I see now where you get your courage from! How do we say "Goodbye" to you? Us "big people" have a hard time accepting you not being here. It's just not suppose to be like this. I want you to know what a Great Kid you really are! I also want you to know, that so many of us are sorry that we let you down. You did everything right, "we" did everything we could and no God didn't let this happen,...but God will as you know make it right and make it better! I hope you are able to forgive us "big people" for not being able to rescue you in time. You will live on in our hearts forever. And when we think of you,..the thought of the picture you drew of the little girl with her dog in front of a house with a heart shaped window expressing her love and happiness for her family will be the thought that comes to mind! Whatever task you are assigned in Heaven,..I know you are going to be Great at it!! Thanks Kid,...for just being you!
Rest in peace "Sweet Angel sent from Heaven."
A promise that I make to you today,..I will honor for a lifetime: I promise to always try to be as brave and full of life as you!! Thank you Erin for raising such an awsome Little Girl! She knew love & happiness and it showed in her smile!
Caryl <mo5k@hotmail.com>
Bristol, Fl USA - Wednesday, July 24, 2002 at 21:24:13 (PDT)
Dear Samantha,
One final goodbye to you. Saw your funeral services on TV tonight. Your Mom is one tough Lady,...but you already know that! I see now where you get your courage from! How do we say "Goodbye" to you? Us "big people" have a hard time accepting you not being here. It's just not suppose to be like this. I want you to know what a Great Kid you really are! I also want you to know, that so many of us are sorry that we let you down. You did everything right, "we" did everything we could and no God didn't let this happen,...but God will as you know make it right and make it better! I hope you are able to forgive us "big people" for not being able to rescue you in time. You will live on in our hearts forever. And when we think of you,..the thought of the picture you drew of the little girl with her dog in front of a house with a heart shaped window expressing her love and happiness for her family will be the thought that comes to mind! Whatever task you are assigned in Heaven,..I know you are going to be Great at it!! Thanks Kid,...for just being you!
Rest in peace "Sweet Angel sent from Heaven."
A promise that I make to you today,..I will honor for a lifetime: I promise to always try to be as brave and full of life as you!! Thank you Erin for raising such an awsome Little Girl! She knew love & happiness and it showed in her smile!
Caryl <mo5k@hotmail.com>
Bristol, Fl USA - Wednesday, July 24, 2002 at 21:24:05 (PDT)
Dear Samantha,
One final goodbye to you. Saw your funeral services on TV tonight. Your Mom is one tough Lady,...but you already know that! I see now where you get your courage from! How do we say "Goodbye" to you? Us "big people" have a hard time accepting you not being here. It's just not suppose to be like this. I want you to know what a Great Kid you really are! I also want you to know, that so many of us are sorry that we let you down. You did everything right, "we" did everything we could and no God didn't let this happen,...but God will as you know make it right and make it better! I hope you are able to forgive us "big people" for not being able to rescue you in time. You will live on in our hearts forever. And when we think of you,..the thought of the picture you drew of the little girl with her dog in front of a house with a heart shaped window expressing her love and happiness for her family will be the thought that comes to mind! Whatever task you are assigned in Heaven,..I know you are going to be Great at it!! Thanks Kid,...for just being you!
Rest in peace "Sweet Angel sent from Heaven."
A promise that I make to you today,..I will honor for a lifetime: I promise to always try to be as brave and full of life as you!! Thank you Erin for raising such an awsome Little Girl! She knew love & happiness and it showed in her smile!
Caryl <mo5k@hotmail.com>
Bristol, Fl USA - Wednesday, July 24, 2002 at 21:23:45 (PDT)
Dear Samantha,
One final goodbye to you. Saw your funeral services on TV tonight. Your Mom is one tough Lady,...but you already know that! I see now where you get your courage from! How do we say "Goodbye" to you? Us "big people" have a hard time accepting you not being here. It's just not suppose to be like this. I want you to know what a Great Kid you really are! I also want you to know, that so many of us are sorry that we let you down. You did everything right, "we" did everything we could and no God didn't let this happen,...but God will as you know make it right and make it better! I hope you are able to forgive us "big people" for not being able to rescue you in time. You will live on in our hearts forever. And when we think of you,..the thought of the picture you drew of the little girl with her dog in front of a house with a heart shaped window expressing her love and happiness for her family will be the thought that comes to mind! Whatever task you are assigned in Heaven,..I know you are going to be Great at it!! Thanks Kid,...for just being you!
Rest in peace "Sweet Angel sent from Heaven."
A promise that I make to you today,..I will honor for a lifetime: I promise to always try to be as brave and full of life as you!! Thank you Erin for raising such an awsome Little Girl! She knew love & happiness and it showed in her smile!
Caryl <mo5k@hotmail.com>
Bristol, Fl USA - Wednesday, July 24, 2002 at 21:23:24 (PDT)
Dear Samantha,
One final goodbye to you. Saw your funeral services on TV tonight. Your Mom is one tough Lady,...but you already know that! I see now where you get your courage from! How do we say "Goodbye" to you? Us "big people" have a hard time accepting you not being here. It's just not suppose to be like this. I want you to know what a Great Kid you really are! I also want you to know, that so many of us are sorry that we let you down. You did everything right, "we" did everything we could and no God didn't let this happen,...but God will as you know make it right and make it better! I hope you are able to forgive us "big people" for not being able to rescue you in time. You will live on in our hearts forever. And when we think of you,..the thought of the picture you drew of the little girl with her dog in front of a house with a heart shaped window expressing her love and happiness for her family will be the thought that comes to mind! Whatever task you are assigned in Heaven,..I know you are going to be Great at it!! Thanks Kid,...for just being you!
Rest in peace "Sweet Angel sent from Heaven."
A promise that I make to you today,..I will honor for a lifetime: I promise to always try to be as brave and full of life as you!! Thank you Erin for raising such an awsome Little Girl! She knew love & happiness and it showed in her smile!
Caryl <mo5k@hotmail.com>
Bristol, Fl USA - Wednesday, July 24, 2002 at 21:22:54 (PDT)
Dear Samantha,
One final goodbye to you. Saw your funeral services on TV tonight. Your Mom is one tough Lady,...but you already know that! I see now where you get your courage from! How do we say "Goodbye" to you? Us "big people" have a hard time accepting you not being here. It's just not suppose to be like this. I want you to know what a Great Kid you really are! I also want you to know, that so many of us are s
Caryl <mo5k@hotmail.com>
Bristol, Fl USA - Wednesday, July 24, 2002 at 21:22:53 (PDT)
Our hearts are sadden by this horrible tragedy. May God's peace comfort the Runnion Family during this time of sorrow. Samantha will be remembered by many. Aloha from Hawaii
Amy Entendencia <amyke55@yahoo.com>
Honolulu, HI USA - Wednesday, July 24, 2002 at 20:23:56 (PDT)
My prayers are with the family and friends of Samantha. I am so sorry that this happened, and I wish you the very best in overcoming this tragedy...May God bless you and give you the strength that you need!!!
Yanani M. <nani_mell2000@yahoo.com>
Cotton Plant, AR USA - Wednesday, July 24, 2002 at 19:20:20 (PDT)
i am 14 years old, and i was really upset when i heard about this. i closely followe the case, and i hope that that jerk who hurt her is brought to justice. she is such an adorable little girl i dont see how anyone could ever harm her!
Sarah <twinklycheech05@msn.com>
Rohnert Park, CA United States - Wednesday, July 24, 2002 at 18:59:13 (PDT)
My thoughts and prayers are with you. Have faith that you will see her again one day.
Jason Clark <jason-s.clark@db.com>
Costa Mesa, CA USA - Wednesday, July 24, 2002 at 14:57:50 (PDT)
You are in our hearts and in our prayers, Samantha. May God bless you, keep you, and hold you in his Kingdom of Heaven.
P.S., Could you say hi to my uncle for me, John Dennis Krone
John P. Bell <Jpb77189@aol.com>
Tustin, CA USA - Wednesday, July 24, 2002 at 14:38:36 (PDT)
Words can not express the loss of this lovely girl. It's not fair. I really am so very sorry.. I can not imagine the pain that goes along with this type of loss. All I can say is, I do hope that justice is served. And that this person who took Samantha's life pays for it greatly. All of us here in Minnesota are deeply saddened by this event. I pray the family will pull through.
My heart is with you...
Susan
Susan
St Paul, MN USA - Wednesday, July 24, 2002 at 14:36:50 (PDT)
**TOMORROW**
SOMEDAY, SOMEDAY, I'LL SEE YOU AGAIN;
I DON'T KNOW EXACTLY WHERE, AND I DONT KNOW JUST WHEN.
BUT SOMEDAY, I'LL MEET YOU IN THE MORNING ABOVE THE CLOUDLESS SKIES;
WE WILL SAY HELLO AGAIN AND NEVER SAY GOODBYE....TOMORROW.
WHEN YOU WENT AWAY, MY HEART WAS FILLED WITH GRIEVE,
I LAYED AWAKE BOTH DAY AND NIGHT AND ALL I DID WAS WEEP.
BUT JESUS WIPED MY TEARS AWAY, AND HE SOOTHES EVERY SORROW, AND I KNOW, I'LL SEE YOU TOMORRW.
SOMETIMES WHEN I'M ALL ALONE I FEEL YOUR PRESENCE NEAR,
MY LOVE FOR YOU IS JUST AS STRONG AS THE DAY YOU LEFT ME HERE.
I KNOW GOD SEES AND HE UNDERSTANDS, FOR EVERY LIFE GOD'S MADE A PLAN, AND I KNOW I'LL SEE YOU TOMORROW!
(Having lost a child myself, that is the song that I use to sing).
May God bless you!
"JO" <Lilblkbeauty@yahoo.com>
LONG BEACH, CA USA - Wednesday, July 24, 2002 at 14:34:47 (PDT)
**TOMORROW**
SOMEDAY, SOMEDAY, I'LL SEE YOU AGAIN;
I DON'T KNOW EXACTLY WHERE, AND I DONT KNOW JUST WHEN.
BUT SOMEDAY, I'LL MEET YOU IN THE MORNING ABOVE THE CLOUDLESS SKIES;
WE WILL SAY HELLO AGAIN AND NEVER SAY GOODBYE....TOMORROW.
WHEN YOU WENT AWAY, MY HEART WAS FILLED WITH GRIEVE,
I LAYED AWAKE BOTH DAY AND NIGHT AND ALL I DID WAS WEEP.
BUT JESUS WIPED MY TEARS AWAY, AND HE SOOTHES EVERY SORROW, AND I KNOW, I'LL SEE YOU TOMORRW.
SOMETIMES WHEN I'M ALL ALONE I FEEL YOUR PRESENCE NEAR,
MY LOVE FOR YOU IS JUST AS STRONG AS THE DAY YOU LEFT ME HERE.
I KNOW GOD SEES AND HE UNDERSTANDS, FOR EVERY LIFE GOD'S MADE A PLAN, AND I KNOW I'LL SEE YOU TOMORROW!
(Having lost a child myself, that is the song that I use to sing).
May God bless you!
"JO" <Lilblkbeauty@yahoo.com>
LONG BEACH, CA USA - Wednesday, July 24, 2002 at 14:31:06 (PDT)
We are united with you in prayer and love at this time of loss. May the thought of Samantha rejoicing in the Kingdom of heaven bring you comfort.
Marisa & Joe Hernandez < >
Tustin, CA USA - Wednesday, July 24, 2002 at 14:00:16 (PDT)
To the Runnion Family -
My husband and I have been very upset about what has happened to your beautiful Samantha. We have a 7 year old who could be Samantha's twin. Friends and family have been calling us to tell us about the resemblance. I cannot imagine the pain you are going through and how you will ever find peace. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and Samantha. The grief we are experiencing can in no way match yours. I hope that you somehow find the strength to go on and want you to know that the story of Samantha has forever touched our lives. She will not be forgotten. It is so wrong that this had to happen to her. We cannot stop thinking about her.
rick and marla <jlrm4@aol.com>
orland park, il USA - Wednesday, July 24, 2002 at 08:02:29 (PDT)
I cannot tell you how many times I have stared at this beautiful girls face and how I wonder why noone did anything when they snatched her away, while she kicked and screamed. She suffered so much and she is lost to us. I do not believe in heaven but I hope for life after death. I only hope we can torture those who do such crimes, death is much too sweet a torture. Change the laws in Orange County so a child-murdered is treated on an animal scale and not human scale. Do not forgive such animals and such crimes. Remember them and that is the only way we can protect the future of our children.
Farnoosh Brock <fbrock27@yahoo.com>
Morrisville, NC USA - Wednesday, July 24, 2002 at 07:25:09 (PDT)
I will never forget Samantha Runnion. She’s the first thing on my mind in the mornings and the last at night. I will keep praying for your family. I know Samantha is now with God the father and His son Jesus Christ. I know that words cannot comfort you. My prayer is that God will send his Holy Spirit to comfort you. He is with you now and forever. His angels were with Samantha and carried her home to be with God as His angels are with you now. As she waits for you in His arms, I pray that the peace of the Lord be with you, that his spirit rest within you to comfort and befriend you. He loves you and will never leave you nor forsake you. When I first heard of this horrible crime that was committed to your precious gift from God, your daughter, two scriptures that came to my mind; (KING JAMES VERSION) Mark 9:42 and Romans 12:19. I love you with the love of the Lord! God Bless you!
Betzi Morris <betzi.morris@us.army.mil>
Killeen, TX USA - Wednesday, July 24, 2002 at 07:21:57 (PDT)
I will never forget Samantha Runnion. She’s the first thing on my mind in the mornings and the last at night. I will keep praying for your family. I know Samantha is now with God the father and His son Jesus Christ. I know that words cannot comfort you. My prayer is that God will send his Holy Spirit to comfort you. He is with you now and forever. His angels were with Samantha and carried her home to be with God as His angels are with you now. As she waits for you in His arms, I pray that the peace of the Lord be with you, that his spirit rest within you to comfort and befriend you. He loves you and will never leave you nor forsake you. When I first heard of this horrible crime that was committed to your precious gift from God, your daughter, two scriptures that came to my mind; (KING JAMES VERSION) Mark 9:42 and Romans 12:19. I love you with the love of the Lord! God Bless you!
Betzi Morris <betzi.morris@us.army.mil>
Killeen, TX USA - Wednesday, July 24, 2002 at 07:18:29 (PDT)
i am very saddened of the loss of your daughter, hang in there and remember that our entire country is mourning with you, i am sharing your pain!! god will give you strength to carry on. best wishes.
steve s.
shelby twsp., mi. USA - Wednesday, July 24, 2002 at 04:54:06 (PDT)
i am very saddened of the loss of your daughter, hang in there and remember that our entire country is mourning with you, i am sharing your pain!! god will give you strength to carry on. best wishes.
steve s.
shelby twsp., mi. USA - Wednesday, July 24, 2002 at 04:53:10 (PDT)
SAMANTHA = ANGEL = WITH GOD FOREVER........!!!!
Butch Morris <butch1227@aol.com>
Parma Height, OH USA - Wednesday, July 24, 2002 at 04:18:33 (PDT)
When I heard about Samantha I was shocked, outraged and disgusted by the lack of respect for human life and the loss of a child's innocence. I know I can't even begin to imagine the pain of loss of your child.. I've only been a mother for a short time myself, but the thought of being without her for a second sends me into a panic. This only makes me want to hold on that much tighter. Once again I'm terribly sorry for your loss..
new mom
USA - Wednesday, July 24, 2002 at 01:14:44 (PDT)
My deepest condolences to your family. Having lost my brother in an airtanker crash last month, grief is fresh with me, too. My consolation is knowing that my brother is with his heavenly father. So is your sweet child. I pray that you will be comforted. He promised to comfort the sorrowing. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Julia Roche <pwgal@sbcglobal.net>
Bakersfield, CA USA - Tuesday, July 23, 2002 at 22:26:59 (PDT)
As a father of 3 girls ages 4, 2, and 6mo, I cannot immagine what you are going through at this time, all my prayers and thoughts are with you always.
Lorenzo
Lorenzo Carrillo <Sequoia20s@msn.com>
Indio, CA USA - Tuesday, July 23, 2002 at 21:46:34 (PDT)
'Daddy's Touch' For Samantha
They laid to rest my baby today
She was wrapped in wintry white
Her eyes closed forever I'm told
In Heaven, Angels will cry tonight
She was just so young, so innocent
The world was waiting at her feet
Time seemed to rob her of everything
Too bad death was too eager to meet
My baby, my little girl
Daddy misses you so much
Each night I lay in your bed
I relive your every touch
My baby, my little girl
Daddy will see you soon
Why is life so full of hatred
My life is surrounded in gloom
One day I am holding you in my arms
Now I can only hold you in my memory
Can someone please tell me why, why!
My baby, my little girl was taken from me
I can only pray at night to Heaven I'm told
Hoping one day you'll be there again to hold
My darling Samantha, daddy loves you so much
One day I promise you'll again feel daddy's touch
Our Prayers Are With The Runnion Family
John J. Ruppert <JJRUPP@aol.com>
Philadelphia, PA USA - Tuesday, July 23, 2002 at 21:27:03 (PDT)
'Daddy's Touch' For Samantha
They laid to rest my baby today
She was wrapped in wintry white
Her eyes closed forever I'm told
In Heaven, Angels will cry tonight
She was just so young, so innocent
The world was waiting at her feet
Time seemed to rob her of everything
Too bad death was too eager to meet
My baby, my little girl
Daddy misses you so much
Each night I lay in your bed
I relive your every touch
My baby, my little girl
Daddy will see you soon
Why is life so full of hatred
My life is surrounded in gloom
One day I am holding you in my arms
Now I can only hold you in my memory
Can someone please tell me why, why!
My baby, my little girl was taken from me
I can only pray at night to Heaven I'm told
Hoping one day you'll be there again to hold
My darling Samantha, daddy loves you so much
One day I promise you'll again feel daddy's touch
Our Prayers Are With The Runnion Family
John J. Ruppert <JJRUPP@aol.com>
Philadelphia, PA USA - Tuesday, July 23, 2002 at 21:24:25 (PDT)
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this terrible time. I am a mother of 3 children and I cannot comprehend what you are going through. I know that justice will be done, whether by God or man. Your baby girl is now in the loving arms of Jesus and will never be hurt again. I know that does not help ease your pain, your loss. I am so very sorry. You and your family will forever be in my prayers.
Jane Martin <jmartin@xante.com>
Mobile, AL USA - Tuesday, July 23, 2002 at 20:54:35 (PDT)
My thoughts and prayers are with Samanthas parents and family and Samantha herself. May she rest in peace and her smile, laughter, love live on for all those who new her.
renee <rtd597@msn.com>
wi USA - Tuesday, July 23, 2002 at 20:44:10 (PDT)
That awful creature may have taken away Samantha's body, but her soul will forever remain with her family and all those who loved and cherished her. You will always have her smile, her voice, her laugh....he cannot take that from you. I do not believe in the death penalty. I do believe that he should sit in a cell wallpapered with Samantha's beautiful face. This way, this monster will spend the rest of his breathing days knowing he is rotting away because of the precious life he took. I am so very sorry for your loss. May the passage of time and the wonderful memories of your child help you through.
Kathleen <kathtype@aol.com>
Upstate, NY USA - Tuesday, July 23, 2002 at 19:29:19 (PDT)
My condolences and Prayers go the family and Friends of Samantha. I can understand the pain and sorrow you are feeling. I lost my 8 year old Daughter and 4 year old Son almost the same way last year. Your love for Samantha will never die, she will always be in your heart and soul. No one can ever take that love from you. She is and will always be a beautiful little girl. Her smile will never die.
God Bless your family and friends
Gilbert
Gilbert <gnevarez99@comcast.net>
Hatfield, PA USA - Tuesday, July 23, 2002 at 18:11:20 (PDT)
MY DEEPEST CONDOLENCES TO THE FAMILY OF SAMANTHA RUNNION..I WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER THIS PRECIOUS LITTLE ANGEL FOR THE REST OF MY LIFE. I WAS SO MUCH TOUCHED AND HURT BY WHAT HAPPENED TO HER, A VERY BEAUTIFUL INNOCENT GIRL WITH SO MUCH TO OFFER ... YOU WILL ALWAYS BE IN MY HEART. I PROMISE TO KEEP YOU IN ALL MY PRAYERS, INCLUDING YOUR FAMILY THAT GOD GIVE THEM STRENGTH FOR THE TRAGIC LOSS OF THEIR LOVELY ANGEL. GOD BLESS YOU ALL!!!
ELIZABETH TIONLOC <bgt_94080@yahoo.com>
SAN BRUNO, CA USA - Tuesday, July 23, 2002 at 17:39:05 (PDT)
I know there isn't anything anyone can say or do to take the hurt away... your baby was an ANGEL and we all greive for her. No words can describe the way my heart feels for you and your family. May GOD BLESS & KEEP YOU SAFE.
Sandra <sandrag@sylmark.com>
Brentwood, CA USA - Tuesday, July 23, 2002 at 12:48:28 (PDT)
I honestly wish nothing like this should happen to anybody. I can only imagine the extreme pain that you and your family are going through, such a terrible crime. Please keep in mind that our prayers are with you . I shall always remember your beautiful daughter, she truly was an angel who was here to warn us of the monsters that live among us.
She is in heaven now, and will always love you for the love that you showered on her so much .
God bless you !!!
lina <le_na20@yahoo.com>
Austin, TX USA - Tuesday, July 23, 2002 at 12:44:54 (PDT)
I am so glad that you have this so we can send our thoughts and prayers. I have a 5yr old girl that resembles Samantha alot. When I found out about this a part of me became damaged. I cried for an hour straight and still do when I think about what happened. I look at life now in a more frightened way for our children. These people that do this should have to suffer an unimaginable torcher, and not get off by a death sentance. I wish I could comfort you in some way. My thoughts and prayers will be with you always. Tenlee
Tenlee Bell <Tenlee@WAEYC>
Kent, Wa USA - Tuesday, July 23, 2002 at 11:25:36 (PDT)
Words cannot even express the pain i feel for your beautiful daughter Samantha. I have 2 girls, so as a mother I hurt.I pray for you and your family, may you one day have God's peace.
Marina <Marhugs1117@yahoo.com>
Palm Springs, CA USA - Tuesday, July 23, 2002 at 11:23:12 (PDT)
The tradegy of Samantha Runnion has touched the hearts of all Americans. My prayers are for her parents and family, I have no doubt that Samantha is now safe in the arms of God. This is a loss that brings grief to me and all I have spoken with about Samantha.I can only imagine what grief Samantha's family must endure.I am praying that God will bring comfort to Samantha's Mother, Grandmother, Sister and all of you who loved her. My heart breaks for you.Caroline Rudy
Caroline Rudy <carolinerudy@comcast.nt>
Hendersonville, TN USA - Tuesday, July 23, 2002 at 08:45:10 (PDT)
Samantha is a beautiful girl. She has the face of an angel! I hope you know, or will know, though you miss her inconceivably and terribly, she is not gone from you. She is all around us! Listen for her in the breeze. Touch her in the flowers that grow in the midst of busy sidewalk. Talk to her in your dreams! Can you see her smiling at you from the faces of children everywhere? She kisses you often, you know. :) Though you can't see her, she can see you! She wants you to not be sad, a thought incomprehensible in the physical world. She understands. So as you cry, as you ache for her, as you remember her, as you long for her......she stretches her angel arms, and encompasses you with peace and love, slowly, ever so slowly. She knows you will make it through, and she knows the peace you will find. She's the angel none of us knew before today. But YOU.....well you always knew the angel she is.
Tammy Pfaffl <tpfaffl@decotiiserhard.com>
Colorado Springs, Co USA - Tuesday, July 23, 2002 at 08:32:58 (PDT)
I am in tears as I look at your precious girls picture and am enraged at what happened to her. Please accept my condolences. No one should have to go through this senseless pain!
Lynn <harvestmoonsgirl@yahoo.com>
Gresham, OR USA - Tuesday, July 23, 2002 at 06:11:32 (PDT)
MY heart and prayers goes out to the Runnion Family, I send my condolences, and I also put together a webpage of inspired words for the Runnion Family to read at:
http://samantha.sinfree.net
May God The Runnion Family
Bruce Prescott <ironman@the-beach.net>
Miami, Fl USA - Tuesday, July 23, 2002 at 05:35:39 (PDT)
MY heart and prayers goes out to the Runnion Family, I send my condolences, and I also put together a webpage of inspired words for the Runnion Family to read at:
http://samantha.sinfree.net
May God The Runnion Family
Bruce Prescott <ironman@the-beach.net>
Miami, Fl USA - Tuesday, July 23, 2002 at 05:34:54 (PDT)
May God comfort you in this horrible time. I have a 4 year old son and my heart aches as a mother and as a human being that such a precious life could be taken in so horrific a manner. I cannot imagine what I would feel like or do if that were my child, but I start crying just thinking about it - I cant let myself think about it too long or I can't breathe. So I know for the mother it must be tens of thousands of times worse. I pray for Samantha and her family.
Dana Schwalie <danas_75150@yahoo.com>
Orange, TX USA - Tuesday, July 23, 2002 at 02:02:46 (PDT)
My thoughts are with all of you,may you find peace.
Kimberly
USA - Tuesday, July 23, 2002 at 01:27:34 (PDT)
First I would like to say that I am so sorry to hear about Samanatha. I have 2 babies of my own 2 and 6 and after hearing about this it makes me wanna hold them tighter and not let them go. Samantha is looking over you right now and god is taking good care of her right now. I just don't understand how anyone can hurt someone so innocent and precious like Samantha and all children. May God Bless You All.
Clorinda Cosper <clorinda_1977@yahoo.com>
Battle Mountain, NV USA - Monday, July 22, 2002 at 23:54:20 (PDT)
So innocent. So young. So precious. I have a 5 year old daughter, she looks so much like Samantha. As hard as i try, i cant even begin to imagine your pain. I keep my children a little closer to me now. God must have needed another little angel. She has earned her tiny little wings, and God willing, this animal will pay for his deeds. I hope they cut his hands off. I hope they do all kinds of horrible things to him. Because, if it were my child, I'd be in prison too, for HIS murder. God bless your family, Samantha, say hello to my dad, he is a nice man, and i'm sure misses his grandchildren terribly. Fly angel, fly....
Karen <vixen_usa@yahoo.com>
douglassville, pa USA - Monday, July 22, 2002 at 22:59:40 (PDT)
So innocent. So young. So precious. I have a 5 year old daughter, she looks so much like Samantha. As hard as i try, i cant even begin to imagine your pain. I keep my children a little closer to me now. God must have needed another little angel. She has earned her tiny little wings, and God willing, this animal will pay for his deeds. I hope they cut his hands off. I hope they do all kinds of horrible things to him. Because, if it were my child, I'd be in prison to, for HIS murder. God bless your family, Samantha, say hell to my dad, he is a nice man, and i'm sure misses his grandchildren terribly. Fly angel, fly....
Karen <vixen_usa@yahoo.com>
douglassville, pa USA - Monday, July 22, 2002 at 22:58:28 (PDT)
i just want to say how sorry am about wat happened. I am 15 and i have 2 younger siblings.I keep a close eye on them now afraid something might happen.I dont now what people think when they can do something like this.i am greatly sorry for your loss and pray for your family every night so that you can say strong trough these rough time.best wishes to your family and friends.
Cassie <Cassierulz4e@yahoo.com>
syracuse, ny USA - Monday, July 22, 2002 at 22:14:05 (PDT)
I join the millions of people in our country who are anguished by the story of your daughter. I am also the mother of a five year old son. My continual thoughts and prayers are with Samantha, you and your family. God's strength and blessings be with you.
Jackie
USA - Monday, July 22, 2002 at 22:12:52 (PDT)
Words cannot come close to expressing what we feel. Thank God they got the bastard that did this horrible crime. However, I know that nothing will EVER replace Samantha and her beautiful little face. It is hard to believe that such disgusting human beings exist. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. She is with God now and hopefully that gives you some comfort.
James & Mary Ann S.
TX USA - Monday, July 22, 2002 at 21:29:14 (PDT)
Please believe that Samantha will be forever safe in your hearts, as she is safe in God's loving arms.
Peggy Rossell <misspeg23>
Sacramento, ca USA - Monday, July 22, 2002 at 21:23:19 (PDT)
To Samantha's family -
Our prayers and thoughts are with you.
May god have a special place for Samantha your angel and may she be forever safe in the lords care. We know that she will be in your hearts always.
The loss of your precious child is felt by many and we hope that it is some comfort to all of you. See will never be forgotten.
As
Denise & Cary
Marietta , ga USA - Monday, July 22, 2002 at 21:14:09 (PDT)
To start, I would like to say that I am the mother of a 5 year old girl also. My husband and I live in Orange County, and this has really hit home. When the news first hit, all of our friends called to say how much our daughter resembled sweet Samantha. We both cried at the news of her disappearance and especially when the news turned for the worse. This has been an unfortunate eye opening experience for a lot of people. I know everyone will agree with me when I say that anyone who is a parent feels the pain for the loss of Samantha as if she were our own. Our family says a prayer for her and her family every night.
Allicia Reynolds <ajprncess.aol.com>
Orange, CA USA - Monday, July 22, 2002 at 20:33:24 (PDT)
THERE IS NOT ANYTHING WE COULD SAY TO THE RUNNION FAMILY TO HELP EASE THE PAIN OF LOSING YOUR BEAUTIFUL LITTLE GIRL .WE DID NOT NO SAMANTHA, BUT AFTER EVERYTHING THAT HAS HAPPEN THIS PAST WEEK , WE FEEL LIKE SHE WAS ALSO OUR LITTLE GIRL .WE ARE SO SORRY FOR WHAT HAPPEN TO HER, HE IS A SICK MONSTER AND SHOULD ROT IN HELL , WE PRAY FOR YOUR FAMILY IN THIS TIME OF NEED, OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU SAMANTHA MAY YOU REST IN PEACE. YOU LITTLE ANGEL. WE WILL NEVER FORGET YOU, YOU ARE A SHINNING STAR, GOD BLESS YOU, ALWAYS, SHARAN AND CHRISTINA
SHARAN <CFJC8876@AOL.COM>
COVINA, CA USA - Monday, July 22, 2002 at 20:29:36 (PDT)
I pray that you know
God is surely holding Samantha in his arms. God says it is better to have a stone placed around the neck and to be thrown in the ocean than to harm one of the little ones. I can't imagine the Hell that awaits this man on judgment day. I can't stop thinking about little Sam. She is so beautifull. I have a 3 year old who reminds me every second aboutlittle Sam. I have no words to say to help heal your heart except that you shall se her again in heaven. Please know we have you in our hearts. God bess you and keep you strong.
Susan,Martin and Grace.
susan pecci <martinpecci@emac.org>
opelika, al USA - Monday, July 22, 2002 at 20:23:06 (PDT)
It is soo unfare why does those things happend? i cannot describe my anger and my pain today and everyday when i see your little girl's picture it make me soo angry to know that she is not there anymore with her beautiful smile ,playing and laughing.. it hurts soo much..Erin, I feel your pain . I hope that you can find in your heart somekind of comfort that your little girl is now ok and that she has become a beautiful angel, she is now safe.. I hope that time will help you heal your broken heart.. Samantha will never be fogotten today she has become everybody's little girl.Celine from Florida.
Celine Lynch <celine-lynch@tipi-usa.com>
Longwood , Fl USA - Monday, July 22, 2002 at 19:56:26 (PDT)
There is nothing more evil than what has been done to your innocent baby. I pray to God that our government doesn't waste our resources on extended trials for a man who is as sick as satan! Although you may wonder, "Where was God?" when this happened to your family. Please find comfort in the scriptures and know that your baby lives and you can be reunited with her someday. I hope your pain eases with time. Castration should be mandatory for convicted child molestors!
Robin mother of four <robincarrese@attbi.com>
Federal Way, wa USA - Monday, July 22, 2002 at 19:53:23 (PDT)
There is no words I can say that will sufficiently express my anger and sorrow for your loss. All I know to say is, I'm sorry, and I hope he rots in HELL. "We Love You Samantha"!
Eldon Smith <mistercurious41@yahoo.com>
Nevada , Mo. USA - Monday, July 22, 2002 at 19:32:34 (PDT)
Dear Erin;
We have raised our four children but we have a granddaughter
5 months younger than Sammantha. Just trying to put ourselves in your position fills us with anguish for you. Not a day has gone by but what you and Sammantha have been in our conversation at various points during the day. We pray for you, Erin. Lean on Jesus; He will be your Stay. Our love and heartfelt sympathy are yours. Dave and Robin.dmarave@netzero.net. July 22,2002
David and Robin Arave <dmarave@netzero.net>
Paulden, AZ USA - Monday, July 22, 2002 at 18:57:31 (PDT)
My deepest sympathies to Samantha's family. I cry everytime I see your beautiful daughter's picture on TV. God will take good care of her. My thoughts and prayers will be with you every day.
Rachel Coulter <Rachellyn414@msn.com>
Trenton, NJ USA - Monday, July 22, 2002 at 18:27:00 (PDT)
It's shocking & terrifying to know that no place is really
safe for our kids and how evil-minded people roams around
to hurt innocent lives. Despite of anger and hurt, we felt
comfort from those whom we touched the lives of other
people. No matter how hard and difficult to accept,please
try to let go of your little sweet angel and weep no
more, so that she will be at ease to leave her loved ones
on earth for her eternal resting place forever. Otherwise,
the more she sees us weep and in pain, the more she cannot
leave our world for her eternal peace. My sincerest
sympathy. God bless you all !!
MRS. BETH WANG < kenbethw@ms39.hinet.net>
Tainan, Taiwan R.O.C. - Monday, July 22, 2002 at 18:09:53 (PDT)
My heart aches for you over your tragic loss. Though I do not know you and never knew your beautiful little girl, her precious face and smile will live forever in my heart.
God Bless you and your family
Love
Kim Cantwell
Kimberly Cantwell <majestikdesigns@yahoo.com>
San Jose, CA USA - Monday, July 22, 2002 at 17:26:05 (PDT)
I am still in deep shock that something this horrible could happen to such a tiny little girl. I can't even begin to comprehend the mind set of any kind of animal that could do this monstorous thing to a child. I lost my only son in an accident, and I know the pain of losing a child, but never, this way. My heart and prayers go out to Samantha and her family. Especially her mom. Samantha will always live in our hearts.
In Love and Prayer,
Mikki
Mikki McBride <Mikki95210@aol.com>
Stockton, CA USA - Monday, July 22, 2002 at 17:23:57 (PDT)
When tommorrow starts without me and I'll not be there to see. If the sun should rise to find your eyes all filled with tears for me. I wish so much you wouldnt cry The way you did today While thinking of the many things we didnt get to say. I know how much you loved me as much as i love you and each time that you think of me I know you'll miss me too. But when tommorrow starts without me Please try to understandThat the angels came and called my name and took me by the hand, and said my place was ready in Heaven far above and that I would have to leave behind all those I dearly love.But as I turned and walked away a tear fell from my eye For all my life I also thought I didnt want to die.I had so much to live for So much yet to do. It seemed almost immpossible that I was leaving you. I thought of ll the yesterday the good ones and the bad. I thought of all the love we shared and all the fun we had. If I could relive yesterday just even for a while. I'd say goodbye and kiss you and maybe see you smile. But then I fully relized That this could never be For the emptiness and memories Would take the place of me. And when i thought of worldly things I might miss come tommorrow I thought of you and When I did my heart was filled with sorrow. But when I walked through Heavens gates I felt so much at home When God looked down and smiled at me, From his great and golden throne he said " this is eternity and all I've promised you" today for life on earth has past but here it starts anew I promise no tommorrow but today will always last and since each day is the same there is no longing for the past. But you have been so faithful so trusting and so true though there were times you did some things you knew you shouldn't do. But you have been forgiving and now at last your free So wont you take my hand hand and share my life with me? So when tommorrow starts without me Dont think we are far apart. FOR EVERYTIME YOU THINK OF ME I'M RIGHT HERE
INSIDE YOUR HEART!!!!!!
we hope this poem is as comforting to you as it is to me. our thoughts and prayers are with you.
LIZA AND DANE <liza295@aol.com>
columbus, OH USA - Monday, July 22, 2002 at 17:22:48 (PDT)
When tommorrow starts without me and I'll not be there to see. If the sun should rise to find your eyes all filled with tears for me. I wish so much you wouldnt cry The way you did today While thinking of the many things we didnt get to say. I know how much you loved me as much as i love you and each time that you think of me I know you'll miss me too. But when tommorrow starts without me Please try to understandThat the angels came and called my name and took me by the hand, and said my place was ready in Heaven far above and that I would have to leave behind all those I dearly love.But as I turned and walked away a tear fell from my eye For all my life I also thought I didnt want to die.I had so much to live for So much yet to do. It seemed almost immpossible that I was leaving you. I thought of ll the yesterday the good ones and the bad. I thought of all the love we shared and all the fun we had. If I could relive yesterday just even for a while. I'd say goodbye and kiss you and maybe see you smile. But then I fully relized That this could never be For the emptiness and memories Would take the place of me. And when i thought of worldly things I might miss come tommorrow I thought of you and When I did my heart was filled with sorrow. But when I walked through Heavens gates I felt so much at home When God looked down and smiled at me, From his great and golden throne he said " this is eternity and all I've promised you" today for life on earth has past but here it starts anew I promise no tommorrow but today will always last and since each day is the same there is no longing for the past. But you have been so faithful so trusting and so true though there were times you did some things you knew you shouldn't do. But you have been forgiving and now at last your free So wont you take my hand hand and share my life with me? So when tommorrow starts without me Dont think we are far apart. FOR EVERYTIME YOU THINK OF ME I'M RIGHT HERE
INSIDE YOUR HEART!!!!!!
we hope this poem is as comforting to you as it is to me. our thoughts and prayers are with you.
LIZA AND DANE <liza295@aol.com>
columbus, OH USA - Monday, July 22, 2002 at 17:22:37 (PDT)
I’m shaking while I’m writing because just of thinking that how this happened to this precious little child…Why Why I can’t imagine the pain of mother that lost her most beautiful little child, that’s why now I know why God made Heaven to keep his most beautiful little angels close to him…I send my prayers up above and I asked God that If he needed an Angel, please help the ones that love her too… She is now in the arms of an Angel forever safe……Saulh
Saulh <saulh10@hotmail.com>
Chicago, IL USA - Monday, July 22, 2002 at 15:45:40 (PDT)
My heart truly aches for the family of this innocent baby girl. I have three children of my own and it is simply unimaginable what the family must be going through. My deepest sympathy goes out to the mother of little Samantha. May Our Savior Jesus Christ lead her through this most difficult time. Believe in Our Lord and know that Samantha will see her family again one day. She is in the Loving Arms of God and His Angels.
Melissia Davis <melissia@citrusonline.net>
Inverness, FL USA - Monday, July 22, 2002 at 15:42:58 (PDT)
Your name is the same as ours and although we are not related, your loss has been in the forefront of our minds.
Hopefully, perpetrators of this kind of crime will suffer for what they have done. Time is a great healer. Karen and David
Karen Runnion
yorba Linda,, CA USA - Monday, July 22, 2002 at 15:41:38 (PDT)
With two small children of my own and a precious little girl due tomorrow, I can only imagine your pain. May you be comforted by our Father in Heaven and come to understand His plan. Samantha will be safe with Him eternally, and you will see her again. My deepest heartfelt condolences.
Robert Horsley <rhorsley@bigfoot.com>
Riverside, CA USA - Monday, July 22, 2002 at 14:52:32 (PDT)
So precious and young a child to leave this world so soon. I believe she is smiling now and touched by all the people who have showed their love and support to her family. Her beautiful spirit lives on and one day we will all see her again.
I pray to God for her family to find the peace that I know she now has.
Sincerely.
Christine Epstein
Christine Epstein <chrisepstein@pe.net>
Lake Elsinore, CA USA - Monday, July 22, 2002 at 13:50:37 (PDT)
My thoughts are with you constantly. Sweet baby Samantha, my heart is broken. I lay awake at night crying and praying to God to please help me understand. Sending love and prayers to the Runnion family~ Kerry
Kerry <savvymomz@yahoo.com>
CA USA - Monday, July 22, 2002 at 11:05:05 (PDT)
Myself and my family are praying for your daughter and your family. What a beautiful child, may she have eternal rest.
I have a 5 year old daughter myself and I can't imagine what you must be experiencing. Samantha will forever be in our thoughts and prayers.
Love, Heather McGannon,Toledo,OH
Heather L. McGannon <hmcg28@yahoo.com>
Toledo, OH USA - Monday, July 22, 2002 at 07:30:53 (PDT)
as a mother of three, 2 boys ages 6 and 2 and a little girl aged 3, my heart goes out to you and for those you left behind.
michelle blume <meeshell_mibelle33020@yahoo.com>
hollywood, FL USA - Monday, July 22, 2002 at 06:30:23 (PDT)
I have a daughter of my own and I was absolutely sick when your beautiful daughter was kidnapped. Then when she was found, it broke my heart for you. I can't even imagine your pain. Many people have taken her into our hearts. From her picture she is a beautiful, precious child. I don't think any of us will get over this loss. I will remember this always. There are no words I can say to you that would be enough.ou. It is too hard to believe that this is not a nightmare. Just remember that many are praying for strength for your family.
Terry <terry44a@hotmail.com>
South Park, PA USA - Monday, July 22, 2002 at 06:29:11 (PDT)
samantha you once walked and played as though you didnt have a care in this world . you will always be loved and remembered as this little angel . now you are looking down on us from above and we are the fortunate ones to be blessed with you .
viola carlyle <v_deal9374@yahoo.com>
terre haute, in USA - Monday, July 22, 2002 at 06:25:28 (PDT)
Heaven has a new angel.....May the Lord wrap you, dear family, in His loving arms and help you throughout ALL of this tragic loss. You put it best, Erin, when you spoke of "taking care" of our babies..Please, please, let us ALL love our babies, hug our babies, and take care of our babies. Samantha, you are forever safe.....
Randa
Willis, Tx USA - Monday, July 22, 2002 at 05:50:06 (PDT)
Heaven has a new angel.....May the Lord wrap you, dear family, in His loving arms and help you throughout ALL of this tragic loss. You put it best, Erin, when you spoke of "taking care" of our babies..Please, please, let us ALL love our babies, hug our babies, and take care of our babies. Samantha, you are forever safe.....
Randa
Willis, Tx USA - Monday, July 22, 2002 at 05:50:00 (PDT)
What can a person possibly say..........Your beautiful little girl has reached the hearts of millions! Many tears around the world continue to fall for her and for you, her family. My little 5 year old daughter asks "but why mommy...why did that bad man do that?" My answer is "I just don't know." Then, I hold her tightly! May God hold you all VERY tight.....I know He is already holding a new little angel VERY tight! You will continue in my prayers! Cindy at retro@ll.net
cindy <retro@ll.net>
Dundas, MN USA - Monday, July 22, 2002 at 05:19:31 (PDT)
Please know that many, many thoughts are with you and your family.
Samantha will always be remembered and has touched many lives.
Bethany
USA - Monday, July 22, 2002 at 05:03:40 (PDT)
Being the father of a three month old baby girl I cant imagine what you must be going through. My deepest sympathy.
Liam Dunford <liam.dunford@o'flynnexhams.ie>
Cork, Ireland - Monday, July 22, 2002 at 02:50:59 (PDT)
Being the father of a three month old baby girl I cant imagine what you must be going through. My deepest sympathy.
Liam Dunford <liam.dunford@o'flynnexhams.ie>
Cork, Ireland - Monday, July 22, 2002 at 02:50:13 (PDT)
I am so very sorry. I have a 13 year old daughter and a Grand Daughter who is 8 and I could not bare to have the pain. Samantha is in my thoughts and in my heart. God Be With You, Joyce
Joyce Adams <joycesgardens@yahoo.com>
Washington, IA USA - Monday, July 22, 2002 at 01:34:23 (PDT)
MY MOST deepest sympathy goes out to you and your family Erin..I have cried all week...Angels are among us and she is the brightest one..I pray for you every night..Samantha WILL ALWAYS be with us...~Peace and love to you~
Diane Webster <dianew1207@yahoo.com>
Los Angeles, CA USA - Monday, July 22, 2002 at 00:15:43 (PDT)
Dear Erin. It is with great pain and sorrow that I read on the Internet about your little girl. She reminds me so very much of my own little girl. I can only offer you mine and my family´s condolences. I pray that God may give you strenght to continue day by day, keeping in mind as much as you possibly can, the good memories and the love you shared. It is a blessing and a privilege to be a mother and one must always be grateful for it, although at times it may be seem hard. In my heart I know Samantha is with God. I wish you and your family the very best.
Natascha Andrianopoulou <natascha.ndrianopoulou@minimar.com>
ATHENS, GREECE - Sunday, July 21, 2002 at 23:58:17 (PDT)
To The Runnion Family: I am so sorry for your loss, my heart goes out to you. I hope that time will bring healing and peace. My family will keep you in our prayers.
CMP <cybermom@joymail.com>
Los Angeles, CA USA - Sunday, July 21, 2002 at 23:48:54 (PDT)
Dear Erin, I can't even begin to feel your pain, yet I feel so much of it. I am a mother of a 7 year old girl and a 4 year old girl and am so overcome by this outrageous crime! My tears have hardly stopped. I pray that you can find some comfort knowing that she is in heaven with our Lord. But I know that will not be easy to do in your desperate need for her return. You are in everyone's prayers. I am so sorry that this has happened. Please accept my condolences. this should have never happened...Diana
Diana <Hooneypooh@aol.com>
CA USA - Sunday, July 21, 2002 at 22:38:59 (PDT)
Dear Erin, What a beautiful girl Samantha was! I am so sad to see what is happening to this country, and I am so sad that your daughter had to be a victim, and that you all are suffering so much. I cannot imagine how I could survive if my children went through that-ages 3 and 4. Samantha will never be forgotten!
KARIE
KS USA - Sunday, July 21, 2002 at 22:13:52 (PDT)
Dear Samantha,
Try as I might, it’s hard to find the words I need to express what I’m thinking and feeling right now. Some things just tear you up inside, and it’s hard to know what to think at all. I suppose it’s that way for many of us down here. But I wanted to say a couple of things to you, and so I’ll be hoping the wind picks up my letter and delivers it to you. I’ll send it in care of God, and I’m sure He’ll see that you get it.
I’m writing to you Samantha because I want to apologize. I want you to know how sorry I am that we failed to prevent what happened to you, and I’m sorry we couldn’t help you in time. I’m sorry it takes something so awful to wake us up. I’m sorry that this is a world where terrible evil exists. To some extent, we all bear that burden. I’m sorry we didn’t do more. I hope we will do better in the future. I hope we will raise our children to be good, decent human beings like you. I hope that we will actively seek to treat one another better and to root out and destroy the evil and the hate that surround us.
The other reason I’m writing is to say thank you Samantha. There are a few special people in this world who inspire me and remind me of that which is beautiful in life. You are one of those people, and I will not forget you for it. Your bravery and spirit and compassion radiate. You are proof that the influence and power of a life do not depend upon the length of a life. You have touched so many. You will always be in my heart, and I thank you.
All my love to you, your parents, your family, and friends.
Clifton <zeus99_1@hotmail.com>
USA - Sunday, July 21, 2002 at 21:35:27 (PDT)
Dear Erin, as a mother of a beatiful 7 year old daughter I feel your pain. I pray that you will be comforted and feel the peace of God through your painful loss. Samantha has touched my heart in so many ways and I will never forget her. She will be in my heart for the rest of my life. She has made me a better person and mother. I am soooo sorry for what happend and I wish I could be there to help you through your pain. Samantha is a beautiful angel now just like she was here on Earth but now she will forever be peaceful and happy with God. And I want to tell you what someone said to me,"Samantha had Angels around her the entire time she was away from you and she didnt feel the pain that we may think she felt because she was with the Angels the entire time. Just know that when you are remembering Samantha and looking at her beautiful memories that she is sitting right beside you as an angel. I will pray for you and your family and I hope that this will bring you some comfort in all your pain. Love and hugs, Jen
jennifer royal <wemmicks2@yahoo.com>
sanford, me USA - Sunday, July 21, 2002 at 21:08:17 (PDT)
All of you are in my thoughts and prayers. God Bless each of you.
Linda
Carmel, Indiana USA - Sunday, July 21, 2002 at 21:00:55 (PDT)
To Samantha's Family .Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.Thousands of miles between our families our hearts ache you.Samantha was a beautiful little girl,which i know is an angel among us tonight . I have two children a daughter also named Samantha age 13 and a son name Mackie age 6 that i will always try to keep close to me . We are all heartbroken for your loss and the worlds lose .May God be with youand God bless you all.
Donna Bailey
Bennettsville , SC USA - Sunday, July 21, 2002 at 20:58:52 (PDT)
Dear Erin Runnion, Derek Jackson and family,
I found this poem that I thought would bring some comfort to you:
I MISS THE WAY
Cyndy Estep
I miss the way your eyes
would sparkle like the sun.
I miss the way your smile
would brighten up the room.
I miss the way your laugh
would dance along the wall.
I miss the way your voice
would always touch my soul.
I Miss The Way.
I miss the way your touch
would brighten up the day.
I miss the way your look
would always make me smile.
I miss the way your smell
would always help me rest.
I miss the way your presence
would make me feel complete.
I Miss The Way.
We are praying for you,
G. McCullough
G. McCullough <flyhy1@yahoo.com>
Dublin, CA USA - Sunday, July 21, 2002 at 20:02:34 (PDT)
samanthia's family-my many prayers are with you. i cry everytime i think what that monster did to your beautiful little angel. god bless you
sjasany
lorain, oh USA - Sunday, July 21, 2002 at 19:53:00 (PDT)
dear parents of Samantha,
I cannot begin to fathom your pain and loss. Please know that so many people around the country are thinking of you--may the knowledge that she is safe now in her Savior's loving arms be some comfort.
donna
USA - Sunday, July 21, 2002 at 16:03:14 (PDT)
Dear sweet Samantha and family,
As a mom of a little girl aged 3, all I have done is cried for the last 7 days. If that man was let out for one second, he would regret the day he was ever conceived. Although I believe strongly in God, if anyone like that got out of jail, I would kill them, and pray that God would forgive me. I would do that just to protect the beautiful Samantha's in this world. If I knew about him back then, I would have killed him once the stupid jurors let him go. Maybe then, Samantha would be here now. I know that killing him isn't something God would approve of, but I feel strongly that it would be a worthy and justified cause. I know in my heart the best solution is to pray for our nation, because only God can redeem us and protect our children from evil. We need to pray for our children, that God will protect them, every single day. I just pray that this demonic snake gets tortured where ever he ends up. I am going to do everything in my area to contact legislation to implement a one strike your out for all criminal acts on children, and sex offenders. They should be dealt with like the animals that they are. Please everybody, do what you need to do in your area, contact your state reps, legislators, whatever it takes to put these monsters away for good. I am so beyond angry that a beast like that could even walk this earth. I as a Christian, believe with all my heart, that God protected her spirit the entire time she was taken. Oh Samantha, you have touched so many lives, you are going to have such a wonderful 6th birthday in heaven!! Spread your angel wings, and watch over your parents Samantha. Between you, the angels, and our awesome God, I know that your parents and family will be well taken care of. The whole nation is praying for them and their loss, and as a mommie of a little girl, your love for each other will be eternity, and reunited in heaven someday. Erin, I pray for you all day, every day, I wish I could be there to just hug you, and take away the pain you are in. Just know that the evil one can never take away your daughter's spirit, and that she will always always live within you. Noone can take that bond away, it's unbreakable, and it'll get you through, along with everyone's prayers, and all the support from your loved ones. Please call out to God right now, he loves you so much, may you find the comfort and strength in him. We put a picture of Samantha in our daughter's room, our little girl said she looks like an angel and she wants her to watch over her. I thought that was so sweet, it made me cry. Sarah, you are such a brave wonderful little person, Samantha was so blessed to have you as a friend. Thankyou for your incredible courage to find such a horrible monster. You saved a lot of lives, I'm sure of that. The Orange County Sheriff Dept., the media, and the public are to be thanked countless times for their fabulous work. I only can pray that this will be the model of teamwork for any future crimes. I pray for your mom Erin, who must live with this for the rest of her life. I hope she knows how much Samantha loves her, and knows that nobody could ever predict such an evil act on such a beautiful life. I do hope that every parent in America holds their precious children close, and does everything they can to make sure they are safe. Let's take a stand as a whole society, and make sure these evil doer's are exterminated, and can never hurt any of our children again. Watch out for other children, and pray pray pray. We love you Runnion family, may God's love and comfort help you in your healing. Love, Byers family
Rachel Byers <robstermon>
Corvallis, OR USA - Sunday, July 21, 2002 at 15:37:16 (PDT)
Dear sweet Samantha and family,
As a mom of a little girl aged 3, all I have done is cried for the last 7 days. If that man was let out for one second, he would regret the day he was ever conceived. Although I believe strongly in God, if anyone like that got out of jail, I would kill them, and pray that God would forgive me. I would do that just to protect the beautiful Samantha's in this world. If I knew about him back then, I probably would have killed him once the stupid jurors let him go. Maybe then, Samantha would be here now. I know that killing him is only one solution, the best solution is to pray for our nation, because only God can redeem us and protect our children from evil. We need to pray for our children, that God will protect them, every single day. I just pray that this demonic snake gets tortured where ever he ends up. I am going to do everything in my area to contact legislation to implement a one strike your out for all criminal acts on children, and sex offenders. They should be dealt with like the animals that they are. Please everybody, do what you need to do in your area, contact your state reps, legislators, whatever it takes to put these monsters away for good. I am so beyond angry that a beast like that could even walk this earth. I as a Christian, believe with all my heart, that God protected her spirit the entire time she was taken. Oh Samantha, you have touched so many lives, you are going to have such a wonderful 6th birthday in heaven!! Spread your angel wings, and watch over your parents Samantha. Between you, the angels, and our awesome God, I know that your parents and family will be well taken care of. The whole nation is praying for them and their loss, and as a mommie of a little girl, your love for each other will be eternity, and reunited in heaven someday. Erin, I pray for you all day, every day, I wish I could be there to just hug you, and take away the pain you are in. Just know that the evil one can never take away your daughter's spirit, and that she will always always live within you. Noone can take that bond away, it's unbreakable, and it'll get you through, along with everyone's prayers, and all the support from your loved ones. Please call out to God right now, he loves you so much, may you find the comfort and strength in him. We put a picture of Samantha in our daughter's room, our little girl said she looks like an angel and she wants her to watch over her. I thought that was so sweet, it made me cry. Sarah, you are such a brave wonderful little person, Samantha was so blessed to have you as a friend. Thankyou for your incredible courage to find such a horrible monster. You saved a lot of lives, I'm sure of that. The Orange County Sheriff Dept., the media, and the public are to be thanked countless times for their fabulous work. I only can pray that this will be the model of teamwork for any future crimes. I pray for your mom Erin, who must live with this for the rest of her life. I hope she knows how much Samantha loves her, and knows that nobody could ever predict such an evil act on such a beautiful life. I do hope that every parent in America holds their precious children close, and does everything they can to make sure they are safe. Let's take a stand as a whole society, and make sure these evil doer's are exterminated, and can never hurt any of our children again. Watch out for other children, and pray pray pray. We love you Runnion family, may God's love and comfort help you in your healing. Love, Byers family
Rachel Byers <robstermon>
Corvallis, OR USA - Sunday, July 21, 2002 at 15:33:50 (PDT)
To the parents of Samantha Runnion: Although no words can ease your suffering, I think the sheriff said it best,"Samantha became our (little ) girl. She became our little princess, our little angel. Your precious baby girl will live in my memory FOREVER. Her sweet, innocent face will be my constant reminder to say,"No." when my daughter asks to play outside while I do the dishes or to look at the magazines while I shop for groceries. I hope knowing more children will be safe because of Samantha will bring you some comfort.
beth <beth_a_reilly@yahoo.com>
san pedro, ca USA - Sunday, July 21, 2002 at 15:20:55 (PDT)
Beautiful girl, wherever you are now, may God bless you.
Norma <cantover@yahoo.com>
Tijuana Mexico, USA - Sunday, July 21, 2002 at 14:37:14 (PDT)
To the family of Samantha. I am so very sorry for the loss of your beautiful daughter. My heart and thoughts are with you as you cope with this unimaginable and tragic event. I am so sorry that we live in a society where our children are not safe and where such terrible evil exists. We now need to show the sick people in this world who are capable of this kind of crime that they will not be tolerated. This man should receive the ultimate penalty and quickly! My heart and thoughts will be with you in the days ahead.
Carol Brandenburg <carolbrandenburg@yahoo.com>
Woodinville, WA USA - Sunday, July 21, 2002 at 12:50:50 (PDT)
Samantha,I am so sorry what you went through and angry that a human being could have taken you an innocent, and beautiful little girl and done what he did.I am so sorry that no one could save you and no one could stop this animal.I just have to tell that ever since monday you have been in my mind and my family's. I know you are in a better place now but just had to write this letter to you.You are so precious that I will never forget you but more importantly I want you to know that everyone all over the world is thinking about you and shocked that in a second you changed our lives and in one second your precious and innocent life was taken.I wished I was there protecting you and this wouldn't of happened. I am 24 and student and I want to have my own kids someday and I promise that you will always be in my heart and my prayers. When I look at your picture all I want to do is cry that this coward did this to you. I love you very much
faye ardastani <fayea11@yahoo.com>
canton, mi USA - Sunday, July 21, 2002 at 12:33:41 (PDT)
At this most difficult of times, I too find it hard to express to you, the feelings of everyone I have spoken to. I pray for your hurt to lessen, if possible, and for you find comfort knowing that your little Samantha is at peace now. Prayers and loving arms surround you from me and from everywhere. May the love and caring of so many help to comfort you. God bless you.
Milancy O'Brien <milancy@sbcglobal.net>
san jose, ca USA - Sunday, July 21, 2002 at 12:25:25 (PDT)
Dear Erin,you & your family have been in our hearts,on our
minds & in our prayers constantly from the beginning.Our love,caring,& concern will be in our hearts for you continually.May our Lord give you comfort,rest,& strength.
Our love,the Berman Family.
Mary Berman & Family <Maranaise@AOL.com>
Garden Grove, Ca USA - Sunday, July 21, 2002 at 12:10:07 (PDT)
My heart feels for you, nothing is worse than losing a beautiful child, the joy she brought will never be forgotten. God Bless you, and even though you are very angry, please pray, it does help. From a Grandmother who lost 2 grandchildren.
Pat Campbell <myhoneypat@yahoo.com>
Cape May, NJ USA - Sunday, July 21, 2002 at 12:09:58 (PDT)
i am so very sorry to hear of your lose . and yet i am also shocked that that anyone could ever harm such innocent
children . my heart goes out to you and your family . what is there that a person can really say ? i know that i have two little girls 5 & 10 . if anything ever were to happen to them; my whole world come crashing down around me . i just hope that the pain will someday ease for your family . though samantha is with god in heaven. she will be sadly missed on earth . god bless you and be with you. you are in my prayers.
ida richards <idaboss72@yahoo.com>
troy , wv USA - Sunday, July 21, 2002 at 11:22:45 (PDT)
I am so very sorry for your loss and our loss. I am so disturbed that a human being could do such a thing to such a vibrant, innocent, and lovely little girl. May you somehow receive comfort and strength to get you through this horrible experience. God Bless you.
David L Bailey <dave@blcomputers.com>
Ogden, UT USA - Sunday, July 21, 2002 at 11:14:55 (PDT)
My dear Runions, I am so sorry. This is evil so great that anger can be the only response. Anger was my response when I saw this on TV. Society must stop only talking about this evil and act decisively and eradicate it. These perverted people should no longer be accomodated by society. I cannot understand why an adult would want to harm a young child like this.
Your daughter is beautiful and let us all cherish that. I wish you the best, my dear Runions.
Samuel Ogbonna <chuksgan007@yahoo.com>
Warri, Nigeria - Sunday, July 21, 2002 at 11:04:28 (PDT)
Erin, reading through this guest book the world is trying to tell you that you are loved, that samantha is loved, that God loves you and samantha, we all find the need to write you to express our feelings of hurt and sorrow for you,... And to try each in our own way to comfort you, over and over you see the prayers and bible scriptures because ultimatly only god knows how to comfort you,Most of us can not even imagine what you are going through, but God too lost his only son to an evil death by the hands of man, truely God does know your pain, John Walsh and Mr. Klass are two great men that through their horrific losses would not allow their children's deaths to be in vain or forgotton, neither one wanted the call placed on them, but took it willingly to better the lives of others, their hurt and anger made them fighters,Not to be conquered by evil, but to place all their pain on the target of evil, to save one parent fromn the horror they too have experienced, and one child from the hands of a true life monster, their own childrens lives go on and live in us all we will never forget the names or lives of Adam Walsh, Polly Klass, or Samantha Runnion, Erin we love you and we will not forget......mary and family
mary gilbert <mary61462@yahoo.com>
campbellsville, ky USA - Sunday, July 21, 2002 at 10:52:46 (PDT)
To the family of Samantha,I was devasted when I saw that beautiful face on the news. I can't believe that anything human could hurt a child and walk away. Much less hear her cry. This past year in Newport a man named Christian Longo drown all his children and killed his wife and walked away. I can't imagine the grief of a family,as I saw the grief of a community and how this senseless ,horrible act destroys families and communities and we wonder if our children are ever safe. We see in the news the kidnapping right out of their bedrooms so I have to wonder how do we control any of this? I will never forget that beautiful smile of your daughter and I wish you peace. My son died and my daughter is the love of my life and i can't imagine a day without her,I wish you strength. It is a crime I don't think we will ever understand it is the most hateful act to harm a child.She is our newest angel. God Bless you
Ann White
Newport, OR USA - Sunday, July 21, 2002 at 09:55:01 (PDT)
My sincere condolences to the family of Samantha. I cannot imagine the tragic death of a child. Our two sons are grown and we now have two beautiful and innocent baby grandsons. May the Lord protect them and may they never have to face a real monster like Samantha.
Dave and Lindsey
San Pedro, CA USA - Sunday, July 21, 2002 at 06:25:50 (PDT)
We are thinking of you all during this difficult time and remembering you in our prayers. Samantha was a beautiful little girl I know she will be missed by everyone who knew her.
Connie L. <jordan@gtmc.net>
Blue Hill , Ne USA - Sunday, July 21, 2002 at 05:57:21 (PDT)
Dear Mr.and Ms.Runnion I sit here crying for yor daughter. I too lost my daughter to a sick predator. I would like to give you some advice: Try to forgive this man with all your heart, and hand over this grief to God He is the only one that can carry it. Your daghter would most certaintly want you to continue with your life and I hope at some point to be content.My daughter used to love animals and she used to volunteer at the local shelter.She also loved to read. My wife, along with some others founded a local group dedicated to the homeless animals. We have found a lot of comfort in this, we know Bunnie smiles and guides us in our activities. We also buy books for the neighbor children. Something good must come out of this. May God and Samantha bless you and your family. An angel will look over you until your last day on this earth. Ben Brown
Benjamin Brown <benjaminpbrown@aol.com>
Cabo Rojo, PR USA - Sunday, July 21, 2002 at 04:58:53 (PDT)
Our deepest sympathy to Samantha's family. May God gives you strength in your sorrow. Our prayers are always with your family and dear Samantha.
Regina
Sydney, Australia - Sunday, July 21, 2002 at 04:10:19 (PDT)
Our deepest sympathy to Samantha's family. May God gives you strength in your sorrow. Our prayers are always with your family and dear Samantha.
Regina
Sydney, Australia - Sunday, July 21, 2002 at 04:09:37 (PDT)
I pray each night that your greif and pain will soon ease
Your little Samantha is now in Heaven and has become an angel.My God comfort you each and ever day.
Patricia <rpecw@peoplepc.com>
Huntsville, Al USA - Sunday, July 21, 2002 at 03:50:41 (PDT)
To the family of dear precious Samantha....
I can not begin to express my sorrow in hearing of your loss. I can't even imagine the pain you feel. I know that I as a mother and as a human being am devastated by this and have not been able to stop crying when I think of her, I can't imagine how it must be for you. Please know that my heart breaks for you and the nation is here for you. We know how much you love her, how special she is, how precious and wonderful. All I can offer you is my deepest sympathy and my prayers for you at this horriblly difficult time. May God bless you and the angels comfort you. Know that the love you have for Samantha is timeless and even the most horrible monster cannot destroy that. Try to take comfort in the love you have shared and will continue to share with her. No one can take that love from you. God Bless you .
April Golowic <madmax-sam@webtv.net>
USA - Sunday, July 21, 2002 at 01:29:45 (PDT)
To the family of dear precious Samantha....
I can not begin to express my sorrow in hearing of your loss. I can't even imagine the pain you feel. I know that I as a mother and as a human being am devastated by this and have not been able to stop crying when I think of her, I can't imagine how it must be for you. Please know that my heart breaks for you and the nation is here for you. We know how much you love her, how special she is, how precious and wonderful. All I can offer you is my deepest sympathy and my prayers for you at this horriblly difficult time. May God bless you and the angels comfort you. Know that the love you have for Samantha is timeless and even the most horrible monster cannot destroy that. Try to take comfort in the love you have shared and will continue to share with her. No one can take that love from you. God Bless you .
April Golowic <madmax-sam@webtv.net>
USA - Sunday, July 21, 2002 at 01:28:16 (PDT)
My heart cannot express the sadness the death of Samantha brings to me though I did not know her personally. My prayers are with your family. May Samantha rest in peace and be by God's side.
MAE <mica1sis@yahoo.com>
Hawthorne, CA USA - Sunday, July 21, 2002 at 01:16:25 (PDT)
Before, only family and friends loved Samantha. Now, the whole world loves her. And one day, if I am lucky enough, I hope to meet her in heaven and tell her how much she means to the world, how much her whole family means to the world.
Wei Chen <weichen108@yahoo.com>
Los Angeles, CA USA - Sunday, July 21, 2002 at 00:56:31 (PDT)
Dear Samantha's family:
My heart hurts when I think about such a precious girl as Samantha is no longer being here with us, you must feel thousand times worse than I do, I heart goes out to your family. I think if Samantha is looking at us right now she would be very happy to know how much love we all have for her and how she has touched all of our lives for the better.
Sincerely yours.
T. Bui <tvabui@yahoo.com>
Garden Grove, CA USA - Sunday, July 21, 2002 at 00:24:12 (PDT)
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Runnion...
I am so sorry to hear of your tragic loss. My prayers are with you in your time. May your hearts be comforted by those around you and by God in the midst of such pain... and may the government act quickly to facilitate justice.
You and yours are in my family's prayers, daily. Peace be with you and your household.
Matthew Akey
Rock Harbor Church
Tustin, CA
Matthew Akey <fullcourt76@hotmail.com>
Tustin, CA USA - Sunday, July 21, 2002 at 00:18:41 (PDT)
How can we ever understand anyone who can harm a child? No one should have to die this way. It just does not make sense. No parents should have to live with such grief. This should never have happened at all. Our heartfelt sorrow to everyone who knew this precious little girl.
May her sweet memories be of comfort to her parents xxx
Judy <wolv@cyberperk.co.za>
Knysna, n/a South Africa - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 23:52:01 (PDT)
dear samantha's family:
i might be living far away from you, and we havent met each other, but i also have a 5 yrs old son and i know how you feel, my heart feel the loss, and saddened by the grief, may GOd bless you, you are in my prayer and i know that little samantha is sitting beside god right now. He will take care of her, cheer you up and he will be your strength. may god bless you
lynda zaldy <tjiamom@yahoo.com>
bandung, indonesia - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 23:24:49 (PDT)
Tommorow
When tomorrow starts without me
And I'm not there to see
If the sun should rise and find your eyes
All filled with tears for me
I wish so much you wouldn't cry
The way you did today
While thinking of the many things
We didn't get to say
I know how much you love me
As much as I love you
And each time that you think of me
I know you'll miss me too
But when tomorrow starts without me
Please try to understand
That an angel came and called my name
And took me by the hand
And said my place was ready
In heaven far above
And that I'd have to leave behind
All those I dearly love
But when I walked through heaven's gates
I felt so much at home
When God looked down and smiled at me
From His great golden throne
He said "This is eternity
And all I've promised you"
Today for life on earth is past
But here it starts anew
I promise no tomorrow
For today will always last
And since each day's the same way
There's no longing for the past
So when tomorrow starts without me
Don't think we're far apart
For every time you think of me
I'm right here in your heart
Donald <coach41@hotmail.com>
San Francisco, CA USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 23:14:30 (PDT)
To Samantha's family: May God grant you comfort in your grief and sadness. He has a special place for Samantha, and she is at peace in heaven with Him. Our loving prayers are with you. ((((Hugs))))
The Cavender Family <sinkopation@hotmail.com>
San Clemente, CA USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 23:07:25 (PDT)
To Samantha's family: May God grant you comfort in your grief and sadness. He has a special place for Samantha, and she is at peace in heaven with Him. Our loving prayers are with you. ((((Hugs))))
The Cavender Family <sinkopation@hotmail.com>
San Clemente, CA USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 23:07:12 (PDT)
I am so saddened at your loss, and I want you to know that you are in my prayers. I pray that you will call on Jesus Christ, for he will surely see you through this. Samantha is in heaven, in the loving arms of the Lord. God Bless, Alicia Red Wolf
Alicia Red Wolf
MT USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 23:05:54 (PDT)
May God give you the strength to overcome this terrible hardship. You are in our thoughts, and our prayers.
Jim, and Linda Bloomfield <jimlin54@hotmail.com>
Stoney Point, On Canada - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 23:05:08 (PDT)
I am so saddened at your loss, and I want you to know that you are in my prayers. I pray that you will call on Jesus Christ, for he will surely see you through this. Samantha is in heaven, in the loving arms of the Lord. God Bless, Alicia Red Wolf
Alicia Red Wolf
USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 23:04:03 (PDT)
I wish to extend my sincere sympathy to the family of Samantha.Though I know that it is of small consolation, please know that there are millions grieving with you and keeping you all in our thoughts and prayers.
Christine Porter <Christineporter2@attbi.com>
Monongahela, PA USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 22:55:30 (PDT)
Dear Erin,
Mi mas sentido pesame para ti y para tu mama. No existen palabras suficientes que te puedan dar un alivio en estos momentos. Lo unico que te puedo decir es que un angelito bello y puro ha llegado al cielo. Tu "Cielito Lindo" descansa ya en paz. Dios les de mucha fuerza a tu mami y a ti para salir adelante. God Bless You
Monica Munoz <monicamunoztorres@yahoo.com>
Huntington Beach, CA USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 22:43:22 (PDT)
Samantha! Rest in peace. We'll remember you in our prayer this week. May God comfort Samantha's family and always be with you through this tough time.
Warm regards,
Huynh's Family
Terry Mai Huynh <terrymai@yahoo.com>
Lake Forest, CA USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 22:39:48 (PDT)
From my (5) children: Samantha (Sami), A.J., Michael, Phillip and Lindsey: Thank you for being born. Thank you for loving life, but most of all thank you for the life you lived with a loving family and that through what has happened to you, you have taught a nation to stop and count their blessings. Because of you "Sweet Angel sent from Heave" many lives have been touched. To Erin: From One Mother to another, There is a strength within you that only you & God know. Your little girl's spirt you feel within you, embrace it and let her be your wings. She is no longer here with us,...but her work here on earth is not done! She was a gift sent to you from heaven, her short life and who she was is yours for eternity. As protective of her as you may feel, by sharing her and her story with the world,..she will live on. Don't let this shake your faith or your belief in God or humanity as a whole. Samantha would not have wanted that way!! Stay strong, her memory and her purpose here on earth is in your hands!
Take care & know we (a nation) are behind you every step of the way with whatever you decide! Rest in peace, "Sweet Angel sent from Heaven."
With you always Erin,.. Caryl
Caryl Christine Marotta <Mo5@gtcom.net>
Bristol, Fl USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 22:31:12 (PDT)
My deepest sympathy to you. I wish bad people were never born. Let this be a lesson to parents that they need to raise their children to be better people so that we can live in a peaceful world.
Lili Ann Blanco <lili-ann.blanco@parsons.com>
USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 22:25:32 (PDT)
Sincere condolences to Samantha Runnion's family. Hope time will soon heal your painful wound.
Thanh Ha <alwayzme13@juno.com>
Garden Grove, CA USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 22:24:55 (PDT)
God's Peace
Karen <LuvMeows@aol.com>
Cypress, Ca USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 22:07:18 (PDT)
I am devasted at your loss. Being a mom who loves her children more than anything in this world, the thought of what you are going through saddens me greatly. No words can ever describe what you are going through. I can only hope that time will help to lessen the extreme pain that you are going through. My deepest condolences to you and your family.
Gail
CA USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 22:01:35 (PDT)
Erin,just know that your little angelgirl is in the arms of God,and is smiling sweetly.She is in heaven now,playing with Danielle,Polly,and all the other little angels there.The way is long,let us go together,the way is difficult,let us help each other.My thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Sharon
Columbiana, AL USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 21:56:37 (PDT)
My deepest sympathy for your great loss. Just seeing the various pictures of Samantha the past week showed what a lovely and dear little girl she was to your family. Even though I never knew her, I can sincerely say that I miss her, strange as it might sound. You family is in my thoughts.
R. Chin <blurchin@yahoo.com>
Los Angeles, CA USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 21:43:24 (PDT)
We are so sorry that this terrible thing happened to such a sweet loving girl like you. You are in the arms of Jesus, where you will never feel any pain. here on earth we have to deal with all of these questions and put the evil person that did this to you away. We pray for your mother and father every night, we love you and know we will see you again some day.........In Jesus' name we pray....
Diana, Priscilla & Merissa <ladydiana1967@yahoo.com>
San Diego, CA USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 21:30:35 (PDT)
I have four children, including three daughters. I can onlytry to imagine the pain that you are going through. My family and I are praying for you all. May God grant you healing for your shock and broken hearts.
Michael Richards <mike.richards@asu.edu>
Chandler, AZ USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 21:24:11 (PDT)
I am sorry Samatha that we as a society could not protect you and save you.We failed you. You are a brilliant child of God. You were too good for this world I guess. I cannot stop crying for you. I hate that this has happened. Shame on us that we let the evil ones continue to hurt our babies. I cry so hard that my head should explode. If I could only bring you back to the loving arms of your mommy. My only comfort is that you are now in the loving arms of Jesus, He loves you most of all and no one can hurt you there in paradise with your Lord and Savior, Jesus! I am still mad at God that He allowed this to happen. But as His word says we cannot comprehend Him. I will pray for your mommy and daddy. I will ask God to comfort them and give them peace. I know that this will take a lifetime. None of us will ever get over you. You are a beautiful princess and now wear the crown of Glory! My 6 year old daughter Brianna and the rest of our family love you! Rest in the arms of Jesus forever and some day we shall all be together where there is no more pain and and there are no more tears.
Jeri-Ann McCauley <surfsup58@hotmail.com>
New Smyrna Beach , Fl USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 21:22:35 (PDT)
I am sorry for your loss and i'm praying for you. god has one more beautiful angel with him now.
Danielle Martiiin <DanielleMartin24@msn.com>
Chesapeake, va USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 21:00:32 (PDT)
It was with shocked disbelief, dismay and sorry that I learned from CNN that little Samantha had been snatched from the front yard of her loving parents home. My heart reaches out to embrace her parents in their sorrow, and hope that, with the help of God, they will find some measure of comfort in the knowledge that people all over the world are thinking of them, praying for them and love them.
Sonia Ortiz Melendez <soniaortizmz@guate.net>
Guatemala, Guatmala - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 20:59:18 (PDT)
Hi my name is Stacie Wells and I have a 4 year old daughter that just got jesus in her heart and since she can't type she wanted me to let Samanthas parents know that she is praying for them every night before she goes to bed. I have been explaining to her what happened with Samantha and she feels very sad for her parents. Thanks so much for the chance to let someone know how she feels. By the way her name is Alesia. And she sends her love and prayers. Thank You again.
stacie wells <jswells@cableone.net>
sulphur, ok USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 20:31:36 (PDT)
Dear Samantha Runnion's Family & Friends,
My family and I would like to send our deepest sympathy to all of you at this most difficult time. My children and I are praying for your Samantha and each and everyone of you! I can not begin to express how deeply sorry we are for the tragic loss of your Precious Little Angel! Your loss has touched so many lives all over the world! I am still in such disbelief that someone could do such a terrible thing to one of God's Little Angels! May God be with all of you at this very difficult time. May Little Samantha Runnion rest in peace! My family and I will continue to pray for all of you!
The Arlott Family
From Pittsburgh, Pa
Lisa Marie Arlott & Family <lschr34497@aol.com>
Pittsburgh, Pa USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 20:20:00 (PDT)
Dear heartbroken mother,
As a mother I can't comprehend the mountainous grief you are feeling.......I prayed for your babys safe return, and cried with you at the news that she had returned instead to her Heavenly Father.
Your baby girl is an inspiration....she was a fighter and her strength and quick thinking will bring justice to her killer.
I will continue to pray for you and your family......I know you have an unbearable road ahead.
I hope you find some strength from all of us who are with you in spirit. As a mother I want to hug you all and make it better, but we all know there is nothing we can do to help you with this.
Much Love and prayers to you and your family from N.C.
Please hug your dear mother for me and let her know special prayers are for her.
Laurie <ladedahde@wmconnect.com>
nNC USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 20:17:27 (PDT)
Dear Erin--No words can express the heartfelt sympathy I have for you and your family and wonder why this horrendous crime had to happen to your precious angel Samanth or in fact to anyones child. I am a Grandmother of 2 boys and 1 girl my Granddaughter's name is Samantha and 1 of my Grandson's lives only 91/2 miles from your community. This has frighten me so much I can not express the worry I have for all young innocent children. When you pleaded for your baby's life I wept with you. You taught Samantha all the right things to do and her little friend Sahara did an outstanding job in remembering all the amost important things. They were two little girls who didn't have a chance against such a disgusting monster. I hope someday your pain will ease. I will never forget your sweet daughter and hope the world will be more watchful over all young children. Do not let Samantha's passing be in vain lets teach all children what they have to do to be safe and one is no adult needs to ask a child for help to do anything let them seek help from another adult, and if anyone does ask run as fast as your little legs can take you to a safe place. The whole world morns your loss. God be with you. Sincerely.
Donna Wright <windsorraceway.com>
Windsor , On Canada - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 19:45:38 (PDT)
Dear Samantha’s Mom and Family: I sent out in the US Mail today two cards that touched me that I mailed to you, but then I saw Samantha’s site on the Internet and I just have to post something. There are no words to express how badly I feel at the loss of beautiful Samantha. It just sickens me and still does to think that such a person could do something like this. I moved from Anaheim to Iowa 10 months ago. I flew out on Monday to see my surgeons who did my back surgery in January and what do I come out there to? A tragic loss that not I nor anyone can possibly understand. Samantha was and still is a beautiful child. She will live in my heart forever. Samantha belongs to all of us. I am grieving as if she is my own as I know everyone else in our nation is doing the same. There are just no words to express what I want to say. I’ve never lost a child (I have two daughters of my own), but I did lose my husband four years ago, but that pain has got to be so much more different than losing a child. I can’t even begin to imagine your loss, Erin. The Lord has taken this child to love and make a beautiful angel to shine her light on us and the entire world. My heart cries out to you my dear beautiful Samantha. Life is so hard and you always ask why me, you, her, rest in peace beautiful Samantha. You are truly one of God’s beautiful little angels. I prayed so hard for Samantha and prayed even harder when I heard a body had been found. When Sheriff Carona announced the tragic loss, I broke down and cried. I cried when I saw your plea for your beautiful daughter’s return. Erin, I doubt there is anything in the world that will ever mend this, but you must know that not only the people in your community but the people in the entire world will be here for you. I didn’t know your beautiful angel, but I feel that I did. I hope that you can remember all the light your child brought to your life and all the light that she brings to the nation as she watches over us. I have been asking God over the last few days what his reason was for something so tragic to happen like this to a beautiful, innocent, helpless, young and a child that was so full of life. It has taken a toll on my faith. I know God will give you the strength to get through this sad time. I know Sheriff Corona had it right when he said “Samantha has become everyone’s child.” My heart just aches for you as her parent. I know that God is holding beautiful Samantha under his arms very close to him. Sheriff Corona, the FBI, Riverside Sheriff’s Department, the California Highway Patrol, the State Parole Office, the County Probation Office and all others who participated did an outstanding job. You need to know that Erin. I will know ask God to punish this sick and vicious person to the fullest extent of law. When I listened to Larry King last night on CNN, I heard one of the guests say that this vicious man will be protected in jail so the other inmates don’t get to him. That angered me more than I can tell you. Why should he be protected and have rights. Your beautiful Angel, Samantha, was not protected from harm – why should this monster be? None of it makes sense. Like I said, I didn’t personally know your beautiful daughter, but I feel like I’ve known her for the five years she was with us.
“To You, O Lord, I pray. Don’t fail me, Lord, for I am trusting you. Don’t let my enemies succeed. Don’t give them victory over me. None who have faith in God will ever be disgraced for trusting him. But all who harm the innocent shall be defeated. Show me the path where I should go, O Lord; point out the right road for me to walk. Lead me, teach me, for you are the God who gives me salvation. I have no hope except in you.” Psalms 25. “The Lord protects his people and gives victory to his anointed king. Defend your people, Lord; defend and bless your chosen ones, Lead them like a shepherd and carry them forever in your arms.” Psalms 28.8-9. “In Your Day of trouble, may the Lord be with you! May the God of Jacob keep you from all harm. Psalm 20.
Erin, if you ever just need to talk, I have a great ear and you can email me anytime of the day and night. My email address is lozic311@interl.net. Please do not hesitate. If there is anything that I can do for you, please do not hesitate to ask me.
Melinda Lozic <lozic311@interl.net>
Fort Madison, Iowa USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 19:43:49 (PDT)
To the Runnion Family. I have asked my mother who is up in heaven to please watch over Samantha.
Vivian <vivib2000@yahoo.com>
Riverside, CA USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 19:34:41 (PDT)
I have 2 beautiful daughters now grown and also grandchildren. I can only thank God I never had to experience the pain I know you are feeling. She is now in a much better place and smiling down on you. May God bless and keep you and help you through this terrible pain.
S Pullen
GA USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 19:33:02 (PDT)
I am so saddened by your loss. This was not just your loss, we as humans, lost something together. I pray for you and for your daughter in my own way. I pray for peace for you. I pray for enlightenment and freedom for Samantha's soul. I never knew her but she has touched me in afterlife as few people have ever done.
Sincerely
Nupur Pande
Nupur Pande <nupeyji@yahoo.com>
beaverton, or USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 19:23:17 (PDT)
To The Family of Samantha Runnion:
My heart goes out to you and your family.
I found this beautiful poem that reminded me of your precious little angel.
A Baby's Cry Among the Ruin
by Ellen Dubois
Sometimes the world we live in is uncertain
in a moment what's known can slip away.
And we feel as we walk among the ruin
our hope dwindle as we greet the coming day.
Faces full of tears, such pain and desperation
you can almost feel it blowing in the air.
Clouds billowing, a cold and sad reminder
of what stood, but is no longer there.
Hands out reaching to soothe the broken hearted
we can't see beyond the tears for the lost souls.
Terror's wrath forever etched inside our hearts now
we question if we ever will feel whole.
And then I heard a baby's cry among the ruin
as I thought about that tiny, gentle life
my heart told me that we could not let this wee one
grow up in a world of terror, fear and strife.
So we must gather round the waterfall of our tears
and hold each other's hearts within our own.
The children of tomorrow must feel safe here
for there still is no place dearer than our home.
In this great country they will never walk alone.
We will dig our way through acts of pure destruction
eyes full of tears but heads held high with pride.
And though tomorrow seems like it will take forever
the sun will rise on this great country, freedom shines.
When I lay my weary head upon my pillow
and pray to God to help us as we grieve.
I have to know within my heart that we'll recover
if I don't, what are the young ones to believe?
And then I heard a baby's cry among the ruin
as I thought about that tiny, gentle life
my heart told me that we could not let this wee one
grow up in a world of terror, fear and strife.
So we must gather round the waterfall of our tears
and hold each other's hearts within our own.
The children of tomorrow must feel safe here
for there still is no place dearer than our home.
In this great country they will never walk alone.
"Blessed are those who mourn: they shall be comforted." (MT:54)
May peace be with you.
Ms. Stark
Ms. Stark <pinkroses65@hotmail.com>
Dublin, CA USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 19:20:30 (PDT)
Our prayers go out to Samantha's family. She was a special person in all of our hearts. Samantha's memory will live on for eternity. "We ask our heavenly father to help Samantha's family though this difficult time, a may you provide them the comfort they need. Samantha is with you now Lord and we ask that you continue to watch over her with your love Lord forever. Lord provide Samantha's family with all your love and glory for you are the one who's love shines on us. Oh Hevenly father, may your love shine upon all of us and harness that love throughout America and the world to Samantha and her family...in your name, Amen"
CPT and Mrs Glenn Axelrod, United States Army Reserve <gdorlexa@yahoo.com>
Tempe, Az USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 19:01:46 (PDT)
Little Samantha Runnion such a beautiful little angel, my heart breaks for her and for your family. I wish you peace and comfort,my prayers are with you.
A little girl which we never knew is now loved by an entire nation.
You are in our hearts and thoughts little angel.
Christine Thibeault <christine@coralwave.com>
Nassau , Bahamas - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 18:59:07 (PDT)
To the family of this precious little girl,Our heart goes out to your family. We know you are hurting in ways that we could never imagine all of our family is hurting also for your loss and pray for you all. May God keep you and your family with him always. Even though we did`nt know her we hurt also please remember she is with the Angels. God Bless.
Johnny & Emily Jones <sunshinegirl37686@yahoo.com>
Piney Flats, tn USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 18:41:52 (PDT)
My deepest sympathies are with you and your family. I can only hope that you all will pull together and help each other get through this the best that you can. I hope your also comforted to know that she will always be with you in your hearts and thoughts. Best wishes to you all. (((HUGS)))
Jill <jillyz28@yahoo.com>
Oak Harbor, WA USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 18:41:49 (PDT)
My heart just sank when I heard the news. Such a beautiful little girl, such a horrific crime. I wish I could find words to help you through this toughest of times. Please find comfort knowing that you and your family are in so many people's thoughts & prayers - and that little Samantha will always live on in our hearts. My deepest sympathies.
Anna
Dayton, OH USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 18:36:47 (PDT)
My heart aches with the loss of your Samantha. May you find peace and strength in God to carry on in her honor. Remember one beautiful day you will be reunited with your baby again in the glorious presence of God
Liz Dude <billliz@surferie.net>
Erie, Pa USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 18:27:36 (PDT)
Our entire family is deeply saddened by your loss. We pray you find the strength to move forward and believe that Samantha is now in the hands of god who will watch over her forever.
May god bless you and your loved ones.
The Revelles Family <adrev@msn.com>
Westminster, Ca USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 18:14:55 (PDT)
My heart goes out to the family of Samantha...I feel your pain. Just think Samantha is safe now with God and nothing will harm her now. May your soul rest in peace little angel! For the Samantha's family, your revenge will come soon!
Charlene Klein <charlene_klein@sbcglobal.net>
Modesto, CA USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 18:13:07 (PDT)
My prayers go out to your family and any family that has had such a tragedy. I pray that you find some comfort and support in God, family, and friends. May the man who did this be brought to justice and truly pay for what he did. God bless lil Samantha and her family.... You'll see her again... She's in heaven waiting for you... She was an angel on earth and now she is in heaven.
Dolores Lewis <deemarie76@earthlink.net>
Anaheim, CA USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 18:09:59 (PDT)
To Samantha's Family: I only wish I could offer any words of comfort to you during this awful time. Just know that you are being prayed for by more people than you know, and your daughter is being mourned by many. God's Peace and comfort to you.
Sue Belcik
Genoa, )H USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 18:09:41 (PDT)
The heavens now have another star to shine on us as she sweetly smiles from the above. My heart goes out to you.
dianne bihlear <tinc49@yahoo.com>
burlington, nj USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 18:08:37 (PDT)
Samantha Runnion, although you were brutally killed, you are still alive in our heart. We never forget you. The crazy guy who took your life away will be punished. All of us wish your soul'll rest in peaceful heaven.
HUNG HA <hunghanh @hotmail.com>
Garden Grove, CA USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 18:05:30 (PDT)
To Samantha Runnion's Family,
We would like to extend our deepest sympathy in the loss of your dear little Samantha. The only comfort is knowing that she is in the arms of our Lord. May our Lord always hold you and yours in the palm of His hand.
Barbara Newcomb
Phoenix, AZ USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 18:01:50 (PDT)
I feel sick & I'm sad for your loss. Beautiful lil Samantha, so pure & innocent is with ^i^ ^i^God ^i^ ^i^ and the angels ^i^ ^i^
That sick & twisted monster needs a slow & tortured death.
That SOB can rot in hell!!
eileen gray <grnscene#earthlink.net>
Huntington Beach, CA USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 17:24:51 (PDT)
HUG YOUR LITTLE ONES ,TELL THEM YOU LOVE THEM
WE DONT KNOW HOW LONG THEY ARE HERE WITH US.
DONT EVER TELL THEM YOUR TOO BUSY,TO DO THE LITTLEST OF
SILLY THINGS WHITH THEM ,WHEN I HUG MY TWO LITTLE ONES ,
IT MEANS A WHOLE LOT MORE NOW.OUR HEARTS GO OUT TO THE,
FAMILY AND FRIENDS OF SAMMANTHA MAY GODBLESS.
MARTYA AND JACKIE <MARTYA66@HOTMAIL.COM>
LAHABRA , CA USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 17:14:32 (PDT)
HUG YOUR LITTLE ONES ,TELL THEM YOU LOVE THEM
WE DONT KNOW HOW LONG THEY ARE HERE WITH US.
DONT EVER TELL THEM YOUR TO BUSY,TO DO THE LITTLEST OF
SILLY THINGS WHITH THEM ,WHEN HUG MY TWO LITTLE ONES ,
IT MEANS A WHOLE LOT MORE KNOW.OUR HEARTS GO OUT TO THE,
FAMILY AND FRIENDS OF SAMMANTHA MAY GODBLESS
MARTYA AND JACKIE <MARTYA66@HOTMAIL.COM>
LAHABRA , CA USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 17:12:57 (PDT)
Dear Samantha's mother,
I left a condolences but this is for you. I god forbid have'nt lost a child but have lost many people in my life and have gone through alot. I just wanted you to know that if you ever need to share your thoughts and feelings, you can e-mail me and I will respond. I have been so upset over what has happened to you and your family and my own family has gone through it with me. I have two boy's and they are my reason for getting up in the morning and the last thing I think about when I go to sleep. Just know that we all have a plan in this life and that there is a better one after. your angel is with god. May God Bless you and keep you well. You will be ok. Gayle
Gayle <Gkennedy123@cs.com>
Westminster, Ca USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 16:24:13 (PDT)
To Samantha's Family, My heart goes out to you. I have two boys and I can't even imangine the pain you are going through. I cryed so much for your loss and I have put up a banner on my garage door for any or all who drive by to see that we must pray for all children and pray for our world. I had to deal with your loss in my way, I live less than 2 miles from you. I beleive in Angels and I also believe that there is a loving god who is now taking care of your little angel. My thougts, my prays and my faith are with you, please beleive that your precious child is now with god. God bless you. Gayle Kennedy and Family
Gayle Kennedy <Gkennedy@cs.com>
Westminster, Ca USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 16:05:01 (PDT)
Their are no words that could be said that would express your loss. To me Samantha and her friend are real hero's. My condolences go to Samantha's family and friends. Also I would like to personally thank the Law Enforcement for their incredible work on this horrible crime.
Norman A. Solow <pogopogo2@hotmail.com>
Baltimore, MD USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 15:57:26 (PDT)
Erin,
Words cannot express what I want to say. I'm just so very sorry this happened. But may you find some comfort knowing that Samantha is walking hand in hand with Jesus along side a peaceful stream and has no recollection of her ordeal. I sincerely believe that. And her sweet spirit will live and watch over us always. God Bless you and your family.
Kathy L. <she931@aol.com>
Tustin, Ca USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 15:55:26 (PDT)
To precious Samanthas mother Erin... We are grieving with you and your family. When you came out the first day pleading for your babys life I cried with you. You said Samantha was clever. I know she was. You taught her to do all of the right things. My God she did... she was just over powered. I hope you one day find the light.. and want to wake up and live again. I can't imagine your anguish... As a mother of 3 small children I am praying for you. I hope you have someone to care for you at this time. My family prays for yours....
The Kakish Family <Kakishm@webtv.net>
Arcadia, Ca USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 15:53:08 (PDT)
My deepest symphathy to your family on the loss of your daughter Samantha. I have no children of my own and can't even imagine your the pain and sorrow your family in going through. But remember Samantha will remain in your hearts forever. God Bless Samantha and your family.
Sincerely,
Cynthia Chavez
Buena Park, Ca.
Cynthia Chavez
USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 15:46:21 (PDT)
Our hearts and prayers go out to precious Samanthas family. To Erin, Samanthas mother... I cried when you came out and pleaded for Samanthas safe return. You called Samantha clever. I am sure she was. You taught her to do all the right things and my God she did. She was just over powered. I hope you can face your day and take care of Samanthas siblings. I hope you have a comfort there for you and someone to take care of you. My family prays for yours......
Kakish family <kakishm@webtv.net>
Arcadia, ca USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 15:41:16 (PDT)
There are no words to express how badly we feel at the loss of Samantha. It still sickens me to think that a person could do something like this. She was and still is a beautiful soul. She will live in all our hearts forever.
The Johnson Family
Gina Johnson <jginaandmike@aol.com>
Huntington Beach, CA USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 15:03:29 (PDT)
Samantha belongs to all of us... we all grieve as if she is our own... we so wanted a different ending.. As for Mr. Avila... in the words of General Schwartzkof in speaking of the terriorists.."I believe that forgiving (him)is God's function. Our job is simply to arrange that meeting"
Linda Frazier <Lalalovesojai@aol.com>
Oak View, CA USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 15:03:01 (PDT)
I just want the family to know that we all grieve for their loss & are praying for them. Samantha has touched a lot of people. I hope that that will give you some comfort.God bless.
Anita <ihope00@iwon.com>
Tampa, Fl USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 15:01:37 (PDT)
WE HAVE NO WORDS FOR HOW WE FEEL. I STILL CAN NOT BELIEVE SOMEONE CAN DO THIS, I ONLY HOPE HE PAYS FOR WHAT HE DID. I HAD A DAUGHTER THAT LIVED THERE,AND IT ONLY SADDENS ME MORE. WE PRAY FOR YOU AND THE FAMILY. SAMANTHA IS SAFE NOW WITH GOD. THE RICHARD GANNAWAY FAMILY
THE RICHARD GANNAWAY FAMILY <Kirabear8@cs.com>
GARDEN GROVE, CA USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 15:00:42 (PDT)
SADLY, THERE JUST AREN'T ENOUGH WORDS TO EXPRESS THE GRIEF BEING FELT CONCERNING THE DEATH OF BEAUTIFUL, LITTLE, SAMANTHA. SHE IS SURELY ONE OF GOD'S MOST CHERISHED ANGELS, AS ARE ALL CHILDREN. HER MEMORY WILL LIVE ON, AND OUR THOUGHTS & PRAYERS WILL CONTINUE FOR "YOU" HER LOVING FAMILY. MAY GOD GIVE YOU STRENGTH----HE WILL, REALLY, JUST BE OPEN TO IT. GOD BLESS. FONDLY, ANN & JIM REYNOLDS & FAMILY
ANN & JIM REYNOLDS <DELTAFOUR@COX.NET>
SAN CLEMENTE, CA USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 14:58:06 (PDT)
TO THE FAMILY AND FRIENDS OF SAMANTHA, I JUST HAD A NEWBORN COME IN TO MY LIFE AND,I CAN FINALLY FEEL HOW HURT YOU ARE,MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALL AND KEEP THE SPIRITS UP BETWEEN YOU TO HAVE THE STREGNTH THAT IS NEEDED,AND MAY THE COURT SYSTEM PUNISH THIS PERSON TO THE EXTREME.
GEORGE ENRIQUEZ <GENRIQ49ER@AOL.COM>
SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO, CA USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 14:24:52 (PDT)
WHO IS THE GREATEST?
At the time the dicsiples came to Jesus,saying," Who then is Greatest in the kingdom of Heaven? Then Jesus called a little child to Him, set Him in the Midst of them, and said, "Assuredly, I say to you,unless you are converted and becomes as little children, you will by no means enter the Kingdom of Heaven. "Therefore whoever Humbles himself as this little child is the Greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven. " Whoever recieves one little child like this in my name recieves Me.
JESUS WARNS OF OFFENSES
But whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in ME to sin, it would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck, and he were drowned in the depth of the Sea. Woe to the world because of offenses! For Offenses must come, But Woe to that man by whom the offenses comes!
Matthew 18:1-7
David , Ana, & Amaris <GONZLPRZ@MSN.COM>
Downey, CA USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 14:11:57 (PDT)
We are sorry for your loss.
Julie and Craig Harrison <planetadventurer@msn.com>
Willits, CA USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 14:10:20 (PDT)
There are moments in our lives that we will remember exactly where we were and what we were doing when we heard the news, Pearl Harbor, Kennedy assination and most recently 911, to just name a few. And now, much to our sorrow, Samantha Runnion. This week will live with me for the rest of my life. Everytime we think we have gotten over the shock of one horror, another comes up and reminds you just how vulnerable we all are. Samantha, may you serve as a bright and beautiful reminder of how precious our children and grandchildren are to us and how very innocent they really are. We can never teach our children to truly be safe and alert to the evils in this world because the part of being a child is, the pure innocense that they hold inside of them. We as parents and grandparents must watch them more closely than ever, not just with an eye on them but both eyes on them. You cannot teach a child to look at this world with suspicion, they see it as a child, completely innocent, they believe adults when adults ask them things and give them things. These monsters out here know this and pry on this. Parents, do not take your eyes off your children! They are your most precious possession. We will never forget you Samantha!!
Kathleen Curtis <kecurtis22@yahoo.com>
Riverside, Ca USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 14:08:50 (PDT)
My Family's deepest condolences go out to the entire family of Samantha. This was a terrible, tragic , and senseless thing to have happened to a child of such innocence. Our prayers go out to you in hopes that you will be able remember all the light your child brought to your life and now brings to the world as she watches over us.
Isaiah 60:20 Your sun shall no longer go down, Nor sahll your moon withdraw itself; For the Lord will be your everlasting light, And the days of your mourning shall be ended.
Larraine
West Covina , Ca USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 14:03:12 (PDT)
My family extends our most sincere sympathies and condolences in the loss of your precious daughter Samatha. We are thankful that the monster that took her from you has been caught and will be brought to justice. Your family will be in our prayers.
The Kinser Family <sandrakinser@netscape.net>
Buena Park, CA USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 13:29:12 (PDT)
God's Child
I'll lend to you for a little time, a child of mine, god said
For you to love the while she lives and mourn for when she's dead.
It may be six or seven weeks or thirty years or three, but will you till I call her back take care of her for me?
She'll bring her charm to gladden you, and should her stay be brief, you'll have her lovely memories as solace for your grief
I cannot promise she will stay, since all from Earth return, but there are lessons taught down there I want this child to learn
And there with you on earth, this child of mine I lend,
for the many souls that she will touch with the lessons that I send
I looked the wide world over, in my search for people true
And from the throngs who crowd lifes way, I've selected you
Now will you give her all your love, nor think the labor vain
nor hate me when I call around to take her back again
I fancy that I hear you say "Dear Lord, thy will be done" For all the joy this child has brought, all fateful risks we run, we sheltered her with tenderness, we love her while we may, ANd for the happiness we've known we shall forever grateful stay
But you came 'round to call for her much sooner than we planned, Dear Lord forgive this grief and help us understand.
-author unknown
I pray that her family will have the strength to get through this horrible time. Good things will come out of this and as a parent I know all parents are holding their children closer.
Samantha, what a beautiful, beautiful girl, your radiance will continue to shine from heaven, you are our, everyone's little girl.
Tina & Brenden <ttripp777@aol.com>
Corona, CA USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 13:22:31 (PDT)
Your little girl's smile is so beautiful. I know she is a ANGEL in heaven watching down on us. May you know that you and your family are in my heart and prayes. Angelina
Angelina Ponder <huerta1975@aol.com>
Huntington Beach, CA USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 12:56:06 (PDT)
if i get to heaven i`ll ask god why?i hope he has a good reason to have let this happen.it kind of shakes my faith.a child so young ,so full of life ,so innocent,
mr & mrs c. hale
orange, ca USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 12:52:02 (PDT)
My deepest sympathy goes out to your family. May God give you the strenghth to get through this difficult time. I pray that you will be comforted in knowing your precious little girl is safe and happy with Him in Heaven. God bless you.
Diana Ramsey <grammadlr@yahoo.com>
Reynoldsburg, OH USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 12:46:12 (PDT)
Our thoughts and prayers are out to little Samantha. God be with you and your family in this time of need and we all know she is in good hands now. Noone can ever harm her again.God so does love the little children. God bless
Mario and Kristen Bohnert <irishrudy@aol.com>
Westminster, CA USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 12:39:11 (PDT)
Please accept my deepest sympthony and know that Samantha will always be with you in spirit. Be strong and join a support group. It won't bring Samantha back but it will ease the pain.
May God be with you at this difficult time. You are in my prayers.
God Bless.
Cathy Serio <cas345@msn.com>
Irvine, Ca , ca USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 12:17:09 (PDT)
My prayers go out to you and your family for this senseless tragedy to your beloved daughter, Samantha. Her beautiful face is imprinted in my heart forever. She was special and that is obvious with so many tears shed for this little angel. God bless.
Shirley D. Bishop <sdianebish@aol.com>
Huntington Beach, CA USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 12:03:23 (PDT)
To the parents of little Samantha,
My heart goes out to you and for your loss. The communities loss as well. The sheriff was correct in saying she was our little girl as well. May your faith keep you able to endure and look to the day you will be reunited. I am so sorry for your pain.
Sincerely,
Tracey Vargo
Tracey Vargo <lady_tracey@hotmail.com>
garden grove, ca USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 12:00:28 (PDT)
Like millions of others,I am also grieved and shocked by the senseless murder of a precious child. Mr.Avil,may you rot in Hell and forever be tormented,you S.O.B!
b.b.
USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 11:44:17 (PDT)
What can one say, to bring solace and peace during a time like this? There are no words... Samantha was a precious child that touched many hearts. It is ironic, that in a material and selfish world, it took the vibrant smile of little Samantha to remind us all of the important things. Samantha lived a short life, but she made a HUGE impact. She will forever be remembered as the beautiful little girl who refused to be forgotten.
Julie Walters <mattandjulie@attbi.com>
Cypress, CA USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 10:40:42 (PDT)
My condolences to the family of Samantha. I followed this from the beginning & prayed she would be found safe. I'm so pleased with the quick arrest of that monster. God Bless your family, and my prayers & thoughts are with you.......May you rest in peace Samantha...Everyone loves you & you are a beautiful child.
Karen
Anaheim, ca USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 10:35:35 (PDT)
For the past 5 days I have been angry. Angry that yet another little angel has been torn from us by evil. Angry that Samantha Runnion's name, like Baylee Almond's, Polly Klass', and Danielle Van Dam's has been forever seared into my memory by horrible tragedy.
Today I cried.
To the family and friends of beautiful little Samantha Runnion, from myself and my entire family, I would like to express our deepist and most heartfelt sympathies. May God bless you and be with you in your time of need.
Sincerely, Chris, Mia, Matthew, Melissa & Brandon Herbstritt
Chris Herbstritt <Cherbstritt@cox.net>
Lake Forest, CA USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 10:34:24 (PDT)
my deepest sympathy goes out to you i was hoping they would find her alive but only god knows why this happened. my neice virgina played with her in school when she found out she was very sad and has not slept just thinking about her she was so sad then when she heard about the body she says it's not her god would not take her . now how do u explain this to her? well my answer was god needed her cause he was running out of angel's and he picked samantha she is scared to sleep but we keep on telling her everything will be alright now that the devil is locked up now lets all just pray for justice.again my deepest sympathy and my thought's are with you and samantha will always be our hearts.
maria <mariafromoc@aol.com>
garden grove, ca USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 10:29:10 (PDT)
Our hearts were broken this week as we watched the events unfold with your dear, sweet, Samantha. There are no words to describe the sorrow and pain we are sharing with so many others who have been touched by your tragic loss. May you find comfort in knowing that there are so many wonderful people out there that are thinking of you. May God Bless you.
The Rodina Family
USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 10:26:22 (PDT)
sorry for your loss, my heart gopes out to you in your time of need.
Sandy <YogisPal@aol.com>
Braham, MN USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 10:04:59 (PDT)
I think the Sheriff of Orange County had it right when he said Samantha has become everyone's child. The depth of
sadness and grief over the loss of this beautiful sweet little girl goes beyond words. My heart just aches for you as her parents. Our family sends our deepest heartfelt sypathies to you. Samantha will forever be in our hearts and she will not be forgotten. She has touched this country deeply and I would imagine millions of tears have been shed for her and for your grief. You will forever be in our prayers. I pray God will hold Samantha tight in his loving arms. With deepest sympathy,
The Keskeys
Gretchen Keskeys <hereisgretchen@attbi.com>
Elk Grove, CA USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 09:59:37 (PDT)
In heaven there is no worry, no fear, no pain. You darling daughter, Samantha is dancing and playing with eternal happiness and fulfillment. May your hearts heal with the certainty that you will be reunited in time. Our family is devastated for you and pray that you will have some peace again in your life. What a tremendously powerful spirit that little girl of yours has. Just look at the lives she is touching. A working angel, no doubt. God bless you.
Susie Payne <spayne@crstemphousing.com>
Carlsbad, CA USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 09:30:54 (PDT)
My thoughts and prayers are with your family during this most tragic time. I will remember your little girls face for the rest of my life may God keep and watch over you and keep you all wrapped in his arms
Angela <futon2000@aol.com>
Irvine, ca USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 09:29:56 (PDT)
She is a very beautiful little girl, with the smile of an angel. My heart goes out to you, her family and friends for such a tragic loss. She is now with our Heavenly Father resting in his arms. May God Bless you in your time of need. Samantha, you are LOVED!!
Tamla King
Santa Ana, CA USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 09:29:00 (PDT)
Words cannot express the way I felt when I saw Samantha's picture on the news. What a beautiful girl. Samantha will always have a place in my heart. I cannot ever feel the pain her mom is feeling but as an Aunt with four beautiful neices, I'm scared and angry. My very deepest sympathy goes out to Samantha's mom and dad and family. I ask that God give all his comfort. I don't even know what to say at this point to Samantha's mom. Only that I am so so very sorry for her loss. I will pray continually for all of Samantha's family and for Samantha...a new Angel in Heaven. In His Love...Sandra
Sandra Ganis <ganis@verizon.net>
Victorville, Ca USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 09:17:26 (PDT)
To Samantha's family & friends. We would like to send you our Deepest Sympathy and to let you know we are thinking of you all... this tribute comes all the way from Australia... God Bless you all, in your time of sorrow. xxxxxx
Marny,Bill & Family <marny 64@tpg.com.au>
Perth, W.A Western Australia - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 09:12:17 (PDT)
Since last Monday, there is not a day that goes by that we don't think about the tragedy that occurred to your family. Violence in our world seems to have increased and we continue to endure the ugliness in the face of cowards. However, the death of Samantha heightened our awareness that cowards can lurk anywhere and we are reminded to be always on alert. Our family has prayed for your family every night and that Samantha is cared for in Heaven. May God help heal your family.
Kent and Janet Kosai <kosai7@yahoo.com>
Huntington Beach, CA USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 09:05:44 (PDT)
Since last Monday, there is not a day that goes by that we don't think about the tragedy that occurred to your family. Violence in our world seems to have increased and we continue to endure the ugliness in the face of cowards. However, the death of Samantha heightened our awareness that cowards can lurk anywhere and we are reminded to be always on alert. Our family has prayed for your family every night and that Samantha is cared for in Heaven. May God help heal your family.
Kent and Janet Kosai <kosai7@yahoo.com>
Huntington Beach, CA USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 09:05:10 (PDT)
My family and I wish to express the deep sorrow we all feel for the tragic loss of your beautiful daughter. As parents we can not fathom the pain you must be going through. my falmily finds comfort in knowing that there is a God in heaven who loves us and who is just. He will not allow this horrible tragedy to go unpunished. The Bible says in Isaiah 43:2-3:"When you pass through the waters, I will be with you, and through the rivers, they shall not overflow you, when you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, neither shall the flame kindle upon you. For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior..." May the love of our Savior Jesus Christ be with you and sustain you and your family. He is the only answer to your pain and anguish, seek Him and He will give your weary soul rest.We will pray you'll find Him and His saving grace.
In His love, The McCooks.
Ximena <ximenaredeemed@hotmail.com>
USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 09:02:29 (PDT)
The smiling face of your beautiful precious angel will be embedded in my mind forever....
For sincere thoughts are with mom and dad and family...God bless you all.
SALLY KLINE
Kewaunee, WI USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 08:52:40 (PDT)
Samantha, we will remember you always and know you will now celebrate your birthday will the angels in heaven next to Our Lord - a place where this horrible man WILL NEVER BE.
The Matias Family <suzmatias@hotmail.com>
Las Vegas, NV USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 08:34:34 (PDT)
I have shed many tears over Samantha abductions and deaths. My sincere condolences goes out to Samantha's mother and father. I have a 4 years old girl and thought of madness would come to me if I lose her. Our society must make examples out of these perverted child predators.
Toan Nguyen <toan17@cox.net>
Aliso Viejo, Ca USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 08:13:27 (PDT)
Your precious daughter has touched my heart. This could have happened to any child. I'm so very sorry it was Samantha. I thank God her suffering lasted only a few hours and that she is an angel in heaven now.
Susan Brock
Bellevue, WA USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 08:05:39 (PDT)
Although I never met Samantha, she now lives in my heart. Her smile exuded a zest for life. What a brave, happy and beautiful little girl she must have been. God Bless you Samantha. You are truly in a better place.
Marcella Covarrubias
Fairfax, VA USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 07:49:38 (PDT)
Thoughts of Samantha are with me throughout my days. I pray for her mother. I pray that this kind of madness will stop. This terrible, unimaginable thing has happened to all of us.
Domenica Bourus
Indianapolis, IN USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 07:48:16 (PDT)
Things like this continue to happen...they shouldn't, but they do. Thanks to the incredible effort by OC police, sheriffs and FBI to solve this case so quickly and give a little comfort to Samantha's families grief.
Bruce Kiesling <bdkisok@aol.com>
Minneapolis, MN USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 07:33:30 (PDT)
we are deeply saddened about your daughters death. We live in lake elsinore. We pray for you and Samatha's father and your family that you will have strength. We pray every day for you. God bless you and your family
mike and patti bannister <bpattik@aol.com>
lake elsinore, cal USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 07:30:38 (PDT)
Our family wishes to offer our condolences, and tell you that all of America shares a small part of your sorrow. We wish the horror of child rape and murder could be stopped.
Sherry
Divide, CO USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 07:29:49 (PDT)
I am deeply saddened to hear of the loss of another beautiful child. Our deepest Sympathy to the Family of Samantha Runnion.
Doug and Denny Freier Family <frytuk@yaho.com>
Greybull, WY USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 07:28:03 (PDT)
Our prayers and hearts are with you, I know that she is with GOD! Just keep thinking that to get you through this.
Our deepest sympathy is with you
Mr & Mrs Winokur
karen winokur
USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 07:22:10 (PDT)
Dear Runnion Family...
My deepest sympathy for you tragic loss of Samatha. I and the nation mourn with you. The river of tears include my own.... May God be with you, you are in my constant prayers.
Love...
Ann Inman
Ann Inman <bula92@aol.com>
Mt. View, Ca USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 07:21:18 (PDT)
My depest sympathy and prayer's are with this litle Angel,
may God give all the strenght and courage always. I hope and pray that this evil man would not be able to leave the jail ever.
Lucy Picos <crzypico@aol.com>
Bluffton, SC USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 06:54:03 (PDT)
Our heart and prayers are with Samantha's parents, family and friends
right now! Your little angel will never be forgotten!
And may God Bless OC Sheriff Dept. RCSO, FBI, and all law enforcement
officer's who United together for Samantha. God Bless
The Abraham Family
Riverside, CA USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 06:41:10 (PDT)
This has just been about more than any of us can take with the abduction and killing of Samantha. The sick people that prey upon small, innocent children like Samantha are the lowest of any human being, in fact, maybe they aren't even that. I want Samantha's family to know I pray for them and thank the many men and women that helped to solve this case.
Ruth Plath <artbrokerusa@charter.net>
Owatonna, MN USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 06:35:31 (PDT)
This nation mourns with you. No words can describe the feelings this horible crime has caused. I pray you will be comforted by God and be assured that this maniac who did this will be dealt with here on earth and in heaven. God bless and keep you and your family...SINCERE SYMPATHY
Karen
Newport News, VA USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 05:35:58 (PDT)
I feel terrible, and I can't stop thinking about this and the other missing children, Elizabeth Smart and the little girl from Milwaukee.
This has to stop.
Heaven has a beautiful angel.
Chip
Chip Mundy <cmundy@voyager.net>
Jackson, MI USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 00:27:56 (PDT)
I am so sorry about the loss of Samantha. As a parent, I am sickened by this. May she rest in piece and watch over all children from heaven.
Rochelle
Anaheim, CA USA - Friday, July 19, 2002 at 22:44:40 (PDT)
I can only say "I'm sorry." It isn't enough. This whole story of Samantha has broken my heart. Enough is enough! I am sick of all these children being murdered!
My prayers are now with the family of Samantha, for I know now, she is in now watching over her family.
Di Ann
USA - Friday, July 19, 2002 at 22:33:12 (PDT)
With the tears of a mother, I cry again for the loss another beautiful child.
The following is what I wrote in my condolence for the Van Dam family... Feeble are the words, "I am so sorry for the loss of your daughter", though sincerly meant from my heart. I can only hope that I can find some means of turning your nightmare in to a lesson of saftey for my own children. May this give you some comfort that some good shall prevail in my efforts. God only whistles for us once."
The simply words above are just as sincerly meant for Samantha's family, however I add here this... Such evil has no place in this world of ours yet I still continue teaching the lesson of safety and caution to my own two children adding this, "Each child taken from their family could be a child of mine."
Frances Williams <fran>
Camden, SC USA - Friday, July 19, 2002 at 13:22:42 (PDT)
My Condolences to the family of Samantha Runnion, so precious and beautiful taken away a tragic way so innocent didnt even begin to experience life im still in shock by her death..Her abuductor will be caught and judged here on earth, But he also is gonna be Judged by his Creator Lord Jesus Christ, and he punishement will be the harshest..
Mary Garcia <magarcia@co.bexar.tx.us>
San Antonio, Tx USA - Friday, July 19, 2002 at 13:01:53 (PDT)
I want to give my condolences to Erin Runnion and Derek Jackson, the parents of God's little angel Samantha who was brutally taken from us on Monday. May she rest in peace and may the monster that hurt her get what is coming to him. Samantha is an angel now, being taken care of by God. She will be missed so much by everyone. Only five years old, so beautiful, so sweet. God bless the family, we will be here for you always. We love Samantha and will never forget her.
Sharen Rothstain <Daysaholic1979@hotmail.com>
Laguna Beach, CA USA - Friday, July 19, 2002 at 11:29:03 (PDT)
Our heartfelt condolences go out to the family of Samantha. She is truley an angel of God and the Good Lord is keeping her in peace. This terrible tragedy touches all of us in this Northern California community. God bless the family, you are always in our thoughts and prayers.
Clark Cook <jumbo777@starstream.net>
Rocklin, CA. USA - Friday, July 19, 2002 at 02:14:32 (PDT)
To the Family of Samantha Runnion We send our deepest Sympathy. We are the Grandparents of a 6 yr. old and could not handle the loss of her. God Bless all of you and your family. We live in Riverside not to far from the site. Rest In Peace Little Angel. Bill and Mary Frogue
Mary and Bill Frogue <SICILLIANGAL@AOL.COM>
Riverside, Ca. USA - Thursday, July 18, 2002 at 16:37:56 (PDT)
My heart goes out to the family of such a beutiful little girl. It breaks my heart to see such a horrible thing happen yet again. I just dont understand and I wish there was something I could do to bring her back. She is in heaven watching over us, another sweet little angel. I am so very sorry.
Becki
San Diego, CA USA - Wednesday, July 17, 2002 at 20:13:29 (PDT)
My deepest condolences to the family, friends, and the entire Stanton community on the tragic loss of Samantha. Such a beautiful little girl, taken so tragically. My heart is deeply saddened. At a time such as this, I can only say I am so sorry.
Brian Kornegay <oneputt@pacific.net>
Ukiah, CA USA - Wednesday, July 17, 2002 at 18:21:34 (PDT)