Mansfield Remembers Michaela Smith

Hundreds of Mansfield residents came to the vigil on Tuesday at Alumni Field to remember and celebrate the life of Michaela Smith.

Tears, hugs and comfort littered the field as each person remembered Smith's remarkable young life.

“As we struggle with the reality of our loss, we turn to you now Lord in our need,” Father Stephen Avila said.  “We pray for her family and for her friends… As they face this painful loss.”

“I’ll never forget her laugh, it had a ripple effect like no other,” said one of her close friends. “Michaela had a special place in her heart for her friends and family. I know she would tell us to smile. I know she’s in a better place now. I know she’s shining down on all of us.”

“As you can see by the turnout, her friendship and outgoing personality positively impacted many different peer groups,” said Mansfield High School Principal Michael Connolly.

“She made everyone around her happy, she always wanted to make people around her happy,” said another close friend.

“There are no words to even begin to explain our loss, Michaela was one of those people who wore he heart on her sleeve,” Mansfield varsity girls lacrosse coach Shannon Manning said. “Most importantly, she carried the heart of this team. Being Michaela’s coach, I was expected to teach her and guide her. In an ironic twist now, she is the one to teach us and guide us. Michaela, please be with us and guide us through this tough time. We will miss your laugh and your free spirit. Please make sure you’re around for every game, and please be on time.”