Abigale June Vanhoosier

Abigale June Vanhoosier, affectionately known as Abby, filled the world with her radiant spirit from the day she arrived in Beavercreek, Ohio, on June 20, 2019. On July 20, 2026, in Franklin, Ohio, surrounded by immense love, Abby’s brave journey on earth came to a peaceful close after nineteen months of courageously facing her DIPG diagnosis.

Abby’s life, though heartbreakingly brief, was vibrant and profound, marked by the love she gave and the awe she inspired in all who were blessed to know her. To her family, she was the brightest light—sassy, spunky, endlessly creative, and always sure of her mind. Her smile could melt worries away, her laughter was infectious, her opinions—sometimes blunt, always honest—made even the hardest days brighter. Abby made friends everywhere she went. She embraced each new face, building a circle that spanned from her classroom to her extended family and everywhere beyond.

Eager for her next adventure, Abby would have entered the 2nd grade at Hunter Elementary this fall, brimming with the excitement and curiosity that made her such a delightful student and friend. She had her heart set on becoming a Kindergarten Art Teacher—a dream that perfectly suited the girl whose soul sparkled brightest with a paintbrush or crayon in hand. Even when illness stole so much, Abby never let go of her passion for art; no matter what, she would return to her coloring books or paints and create something beautiful. The world was her canvas—especially if she could fill it with her two favorite things: pink and butterflies. Pink decorated not just her belongings but her very outlook, and butterflies seemed to follow her gentle, transforming spirit.

Abby’s sense of fun and zest for life never faded. Following her diagnosis on December 13, 2024, she found ways—even in hardship—to embrace joy. A blood draw or IV, dreaded as it was, became an opportunity for a “Yes Day”; one challenge accepted led to a treat earned, and even the most daunting moments turned golden under her optimism.

Those who knew Abby often say she should win an award for having the most delightful nicknames: “Crabby Abby,” “Junie B. Jones,” “Crabigale,” “Agnus,” and so many more—each a small window into her big personality and the wit she so naturally possessed. This year, she would have joined the Franklin Wildcats as a cheerleader, a role that matched her enthusiasm for lifting up everyone she met.

Cherishing her memory are her loving parents, Eligia "Rocky" and Brittany (nee Melvin) Alexander; her siblings, Lonna Alexander, Layla Vanhoosier, Adrienne Vanhoosier, Raiden Vanhoosier, and Bexleigh Alexander; her grandparents, Ronald Melvin, Jr., Cynthia and Bruce Duff, Elgie and Jaime Alexander; great-grandmother, Linda Hayslip; and her aunts and uncles, Candace (David) Sexton and Joshua (Tiffany) Duff. Abby’s circle of friends was large with her besties, Blayklee Hanson and Lylee Parsons, also feeling the loss of their precious companion.

Abby is welcomed into eternity by her great-grandparents, Gale Hayslip, Mary (Duane) Hagedorn, and Ronald Melvin, Sr.

Though her time with us was far too short, Abby’s impact endures in vivid hues through every cherished memory. Her family finds comfort in imagining her now, free from pain, painting in heaven with every color she loves—perhaps nibbling on a honeybun and drinking a coke, her unmistakable spirit flying on butterfly wings.

A visitation will be held Friday, July 31, 2026 from 2:00 pm until time of the funeral service at 3:00 pm at Solid Rock Church. Interment will be held privately. 

She is, and always will be, the bravest girl we know. Her legacy of courage, creativity, and love remains—a vibrant masterpiece in the hearts of all who loved her.

If desired, memorial donations may be directed to Special Wish Foundation of Southwest Ohio.