A family notice published in the Herald described the young woman – known affectionately as “Kody” – as a dearly loved daughter to Clay and Maria, darling big sister to Kea and Yanni and cherished granddaughter to her grandparents.
“Fly high, beautiful girl,” the notice read.
Parents are ‘heartbroken and devastated’
A Givealittle fundraising page has also been set up by an aunt. She described the young woman’s parents, siblings, family and friends as “heartbroken and devastated” at the loss.
The family revealed their daughter was “just minutes” from home when the crash happened.
“Lakota – a gorgeous, vibrant and beautiful 22-year-old young lady – was involved in a terrible car accident just minutes from home, on Monday night, by Waikumete Cemetery.
“Sadly, her injuries were not survivable and she passed away in hospital early hours Tuesday morning.”
Funds raised will help pay for funeral expenses, including her burial plot. Her aunt wrote that the fundraising effort is to help ease the stress and worry her parents are facing.
The Byrne family shared a message of thanks and gratitude to the Glen Eden Fire Brigade, Police, Hato Hone St John, as well as doctors and nurses who worked to try to save their girl.
“Our heartfelt gratitude goes out to [you].”
Lakota’s funeral service will be held at 3pm next Friday, February 27, at the Morrisons Funeral Home on Universal Drive in Henderson, West Auckland.
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