Savannah Elizabeth Longley
December 20, 2014 - April 13, 2016
Obituary
MADISON-Savannah Elizabeth Longley, age 15 months, earned her wings on Wednesday, April 13, 2016, at her home in her parent's arms, with other family at her side. She was born on Dec. 20, 2014, in Madison, the daughter of Jay and Rachel (Zelinger) Longley.
Savannah is survived by her parents; grandparents, Jodi and Paul Zelinger and MaryAnn "Annie" Longley; aunts and uncles; Kelli Zelinger, Sarah Zelinger (Mickey Isberner), Leslie (Ryan) Olson; and cousin, Hunter Olson. She was preceded in death by her sister, Brooklyn; and grandfather, Dale Longley. Savannah was diagnosed with Early Infantile Epileptic Encephalopathy at a very young age. While this diagnosis is very devastating, Savannah and her parents lived every day to the fullest, never knowing if today would be the last. Her smiles could brighten anyone's day, and her beautiful blue eyes could light up any room. Savannah enjoyed going to church, for stroller rides around the neighborhood, going to farmers markets, visiting places like the Zoo and Door County, taking trips to the Lake House, and snuggles with her puppy Zoey. She was a beautiful little girl that has touched so many people, showing them how to live. Throughout her entire life, all she knew was LOVE.
A special thank you to all members of Savannah's care team, especially Dr. Carleen Hanson, and Agrace HospiceCare Team, Nicole Strahm, RN, and Laura Heim. Also, a special thank you to Savannah's night nurses. Visitation will be held at MESSIAH EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH, 5202 Cottage Grove Rd., Madison, from 3 p.m. until 6 p.m. on Friday, April 22, 2016. A celebration of life will be held at 6 p.m. on Friday, with Rev. Jeff Vanden Heuvel presiding. All who are unable to attend are encouraged to watch the Celebration live at http://messiahchurch.com/streaming/ In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the family for memorials to be determined.
Events
Visitation
Fri Apr 22, 2016 @ 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM CDT
Messiah Lutheran Church (Madison) • 5202 Cottage Grove Road, Madison, WI null
Service
Fri Apr 22, 2016 @ 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM CDT
Messiah Lutheran Church (Madison) • 5202 Cottage Grove Road, Madison, WI null
Photos
No photos of Savannah have been shared yet.
Memories
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Brynn Schulte
Other •
Waking up to posts of this beautiful princess and her toothy grin or videos of her hiccups and giggles was always the highlight of my day for the past 16 months. Love her and her family so much! Always first in my prayers.
ST
Samantha Taylor
Other •
We feel so blessed to have met Rachel, Jay, and sweet Savannah. Having you in our lives has taught us lessons about friendship, patience, and true unconditional love. We sure will miss those big blue eyes and toothy smile! Hugs
♡ the Taylor family
SZ
Sue Zimmer
Other •
We knew Savannah only through the pictures and posts her Mom put on Facebook! Her Mom & Dad are good friends of our son Dan & his wife Melissa so we became Facebook friends shortly after Savannah was born! What a precious and beautiful little girl! Her smile was amazing and so were her eyes! There was a light in both of them that said I am aware! I know what is happening around and to me ! And it's all beautiful ; it's all wonderful; it's all LOVE!! I'm sure there were times she was uncomfortable, and didn't feel well but I'm betting that even during those times she knew that the people helping her, comforting her and cuddling her loved her dearly: it was written all over her face! Her sweet smile when she slept; when she looked at her Mom; when she snuggled ; when she"danced," it was truly evident this sweet beauty felt ONLY LOVE!
KN
Kristine N
Other •
God has received such a special angle who has shined on all our hearts with her gentle smiles. This little girl showed what love is. Will miss her smiles and beautiful eyes. May you spread your wings in your new life. We love you.
DH
Doreen HHinrichs
Other •
God took Savannah home to be an angel. You are truly amazing people. Keep the memories in your hearts. I believe she is up there smiling down on you. Prayers and thoughts are with you.
Doreen H from church
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Annemarie
Other •
I am truly sorry for your loss. May the love and peace of Jesus Christ, the Creator God of the Universe surround you at this most difficult time. You will be in my prayers.
Annemarie Omilian ( identical twin sister of Desiree Giardina in CT)