Notes to Riley

This page is dedicated to the friends and loved ones of Riley I Whitelaw. To submit a note to Riley, fill out the form below.

Courtenay Whitelaw Courtenay Whitelaw

Rest Now

You would be so proud of you mom, Riley, and the courage she showed yesterday. Rest now juicy girl. - Dede P., family friend

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How I Remember Riley

When I went to your memorial with Kiki and saw the video with moments captured of you the one that stayed with me was you playing Crazy Train on the guitar and the smile that spread across your face as you let the riff rip. I added that song to the playlist I use when working out. I smile and think of you and your smile several times a week. ~ Larry B., Father of her teammate and friend Kiki

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You will forever ROCK on in our hearts

Hey Riley,

It’s been great getting to know you through your amazing mom. I look forward to hearing more about you during our long hikes. Though you are not here, you will always be here. Love is immortal. ~ Nathalie D., Friend of your mom

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Today (5/17/23) Should have been Different

There is no way to ignore the fact that everyone in your life imagined today to look different. Your physical body should be walking that graduation stage alongside your dear friends, and peers. Today was a day you worked so hard for, and this is a moment you deserve. Yet, today is no less about your future- it's just different. You have left a legacy, sweet girl. A legacy of spirit, kindness, compassion, love, and strength. Your footprints WILL be on that stage, You are walking in the heart of each of those fellow students, people that love you, and most of all, walking today in the heart of your Momma. You have already graduated to something bigger than all of us. Much love ~ Arianne R., Friend of your Momma, and Madeline's Mom

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Your Impact Lives On

Dear Riley,

I never met you, though I've gotten to know your mom. The way she talks about you, your smile, your kindness, your art, your music and the way you always had a smile or a kind word for a friend or a stranger. You will carry on through the people who know you, the people who will fight for you and the people your kindness has touched. You have had a profound impact on me even though we never met. I will strive to carry your kindness with me and share it with others so that they may know your kindness. ~ Leslie S., Friend of Ri’s mum

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I Miss You

Riley, I miss you every day. I miss your smile. I miss the sound of your laugh. I'd give anything and everything just to see you again. ~ Anonymous

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Best Friend

Hey Ri, Can't believe you're graduating tomorrow. I remember in 6th grade when I first met you we were two totally different people with two totally different personalities. You were shy and emo, kept to yourself with a few friends; I on the other hand was loud, obnoxious, extra girly, and wanted to be friends with everyone. It's a miracle that out of everything, despite our different personalities, different friend groups, different lifestyles, we chose each other. It was just meant to be. Knowing you throughout middle and high school were some of the best memories I ever had. Even though 8th-11th grade we were apart with distance, our friendship was closer than ever. Seeing you come out of your shell, talking to people and making friends, doing art for other people and just becoming who you really are were some of my best memories of you. I'm proud of you. I'll always be. You were the smartest person I knew, my biggest inspiration. I know you would've gotten scholarship after scholarship if you chose to go to college. No matter what you wanted to do in your future, whether that's science or art (my fave), I'd support you 100%.You make me wanna be the best student I can be. When I walk across the stage, I'm walking like you're there with me. I got your initials inside of my class ring, R.I.W, so a piece of you is celebrating with me.I love you, my best friend, sister, soulmate.Congratulations. ~ Jaden S., Best Friend

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To my favorite old man

I'm proud of you Ryebread! Your kindness doesn't leave mushroom for doubt that you brought light into the lives of everyone you touched. My legs are still sore from pretending to be a senior citizen for duo interp, but it's worth it to be able to joke about my injured liver, located, of course, in my calf. I'll bring that light into the world in honor of you until I myself am an old [wo]man. ~ Lily R., Friend

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Artists Unite

A life taken far too soon. So many gifts of creativity and a love for life with smiles to share with those fortunate enough to know you. RIP, Riley. ~ Vanessa S., Middle School Art Teacher

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Riley, you are so loved

I still remember being over at your house doing work things with your mom when you came downstairs to head to work. The cute, funny, rushed hug for mom while you were running late just made me smile. I know you and your mom had a special bond, a friendship, a deep love that another mama can see and appreciate. Courtenay carries that love for you on and we will always remember you . ~ Kristen P., Mom’s friend/coworker

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