Tuesday, April 5, 2011

Heaven is happy, Holly is home!


Holly Mckell Saunders

1974-2011

Holly, 37 passed away at home April 2, 2011 due to complications from complex congenital heart disease. She was born to Reed and Bobbi Saunders on April 8, 1974 with the probability of only living days. Defying the odds and pioneering a multitude of medical procedures, Holly amazed and taught us all by enduring 37 years of pure faith and strength.

Holly was radiant with happiness. She had a positive attitude, always looking for the best in others, never judgmental, or self-pitying. She brought sunshine to everyone she met. "Strangers are friends I haven't met yet." Heaven is happy Holly is home.

Born in California and growing up in the Cottonwood Heights area, Holly's deep love of the gospel of Jesus Christ influenced all who knew her. Her adventurous spirit took her to live in Arizona for 7 years where her love of life and friendships grew.
Moving back home to Utah, Holly met her sweetheart Quintin Thomas McKell. "It was truly my best moment when I met Quintin. I am so thankful to my Heavenly Father for putting him in my life." They were married in the Jordan River Temple July 8th, 2006.
Together Quintin and Holly embarked on the greatest adventure of their lives, living in Australia for a year. There they adored the people, especially in their little branch, that loved them back. They cherished the birds, animals, and flowers of Cairns, Australia.
Survived by husband Quintin, parents Reed and Bobbi Saunders, sisters, Lisa (Greg) Lake, Shelly (Craig) Peters, Brother Danny Saunders, nieces and nephews. She loved Quintin's family and her constant friend Melanie Ledingham as well as hundreds of valued friends. Thank you to Holly's medical heroes; Primary Children’s Medical Center, Mayo Clinic, Children’s Hospital of Orange County and Chicago Children’s Medical Center. A special thank you to the Lindon 13th ward.
Visitation/Viewing Thursday, April 7, 6:00-8:00 pm at River 6th Ward, 11473 S. Chapel Ridge Dr. (1080 W.) South Jordan, Utah 84095.

Funeral services will be held on her birthday, Friday April 8, 1:00 pm. South Jordan Utah River Stake Center, 1570 W. 11400 S. South Jordan, UT. A viewing will be held at 11:30 prior to the Funeral service.
"Tender mercies shall fall upon you like rain and wash away your tears"

To make donations for Quintin please click on the orange "Donate" button on the right hand side of this page.

Sunday, March 13, 2011

Super Holly!


Holly Saunders Mckell

Whether you are close to Holly, or just know of her story, you can't help but be inspired by her bright, happy spirit! Most of you know her story. Holly was born with Congenital Heart Disease (single ventricle, single atrium). When she was born, doctors did not expect her to live more than a few days. Holly has spent her entire life proving that God is in charge. Thirty-six (almost 37!) years, many, many surgeries, and a lifetime of joy later - Holly has defied all odds. (You can read more about Holly at the web links on the right side of this page). We know that the time Holly has left on this earth is growing short. Holly, her wonderful husband Quintin and her family have approached this journey with incredible strength, faith, humor and grace. The family has not asked for financial support, however, many of us simply want to help in some way. With the medical bills and Quintin taking this time off work to be with and care for Holly - expenses really add up! If you would like to make a donation to help with these expenses - please click on the orange "DONATE" button on the right hand side of this page. Please spread the word!

Thank you all for the outpouring of love, support and prayers!