Lasting Memories
Sarah Marie Longyear
May 13, 1996-April 22, 2016
Palo Alto, California
Sarah Marie Longyear, age 19, passed away Friday, April 22, 2016. She was born on May 13, 1996, in Palo Alto, California, where she was raised. She graduated from Henry M. Gunn High School in 2014. Sarah was a sophomore at Washington University in St. Louis (WUSTL), majoring in global health with minors in design and business. Sarah is survived by her parents, Rick and Sally; her older brother, CJ; and a large extended family.
Sarah had many more wonderful qualities than can be described here. She was athletic and hardworking, a member of the Gunn basketball team and a walk-on for the WUSTL basketball team. A dedicated volunteer for many years, Sarah was devoted to children and pets in need. She also was creative, often weaving her love for dogs and bright colors into her artwork. In high school, she was a layout and section editor for the yearbook for two years. Sarah loved the outdoors, especially the beach and the mountains; there she enjoyed the flowers and sunshine to which she was often compared. Sarah was a "Friends" fanatic, but treasured her friends even more. She was inquisitive, caring and demonstrated genuine interest in people.
Sarah was giving and gave her love and support to many. Unfortunately she was not able to give the same to herself, as she struggled with significant depression, the disease that ended her life far too early. Sarah brought radiant joy and energy wherever she went, lighting up rooms with her smile and filling them with her laughter. Her heart was for everyone.
Many more people than we know are dealing with mental health issues, and suicides are far too common. We encourage everyone to be mindful of their loved ones and talk about mental health and suicide. If you feel a loved one may be considering suicide, please ask them. If you are considering suicide, please tell someone or call 1-800-SUICIDE or text 1-800-799-4889.
May 9, 2016
My deepest condolences to Sarah's family and friends. I have only read about her as she seemed like such a breath of fresh air and a delightful and intelligent young woman. It is very sad to hear of such a tragedy, she seemed to have left a lasting impression in everyone's life. Depression is tragic, it's painful, and it's tough when you feel as if there's no hope. I pray for her family and friends, and I really do believe she is doing well now and free of the pain and suffering.
May 2, 2016
Rick, as you know, I am no stranger to suicide. This loss of so young a person saddens me, and more so because I always enjoyed knowing you as a fellow teacher. Suicide is a mystery, and although I think I have become sort of a "student" of this path, trying hard to understand, it nevertheless, in the final analysis, eludes me. I can only send my love and prayers for your family and for you. Know that I am always available for talking or for help. Much love, Shannon
May 2, 2016
Sally, I’m devastated to hear the news about your daughter Sarah. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. Heyward
April 28, 2016
I taught Sarah in the freshman seminar, "The Color of Modern Life." I so vividly remember the insightful comments she offered on the first day of class. We were discussing a Blinky Palermo painting made of dyed cloth, and she pointed out to her classmates that it was worth considering the materials that had been used to make the work in question. Throughout the semester she persistently offered up unique perspectives, and with such generosity and kindness. Sarah was so impressive in this way, and also in her dedication to school, to work, and to the basketball team. When I asked her if she had taken on too much for her first semester at college, she brushed the question aside and said that these were her responsibilities and that she would fulfill them. I so admired that demonstration of devoted commitment. I am deeply sorry to learn of her passing, and also of her struggles with depression. To class she always brought an infectious smile (see below). She will be so very missed.
April 28, 2016
I don't know your family (I'm in New Mexico); I just came across the article about your beautiful daughter, Sarah. I was deeply moved about reading what she was like; it reminded me about our daughter (who also suffers from depression/mental disorder) and it's been the hardest two years to try and battle it or even figure it out. I'll be praying for your family and that your heart may find peace and comfort. Peace, Prayers and Blessings...
April 28, 2016
Sally, please know you are in our hearts and prayers, and abundant love to you and your family always. We will remember Sarah in all her beauty, kindness, and goodness and will live as you ask, mindful of the mental health and need for care of those around us.
April 27, 2016
We at Bear Necessities (WashU) are so saddened and deeply sorry for your loss. Sarah was a bright star here and we are so sorry to hear of her struggles. Her coworkers are grieving, as am I. Please know that our thoughts & prayers are with the Longyear family.
April 27, 2016
I am so sorry to hear of Sarah passing. Our hearts are broken for her and your family. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. May God guide her home.
April 27, 2016
My heart is aching for you. May you find strength in our prayers. Alida
April 27, 2016
Please know that I am thinking of you and that my thoughts and prayers are with the Longyear family. As Alida said, my heart is aching for you all.
April 27, 2016
To Sally and your whole family, Please know how much love is coming to you -- and to your beautiful daughter. Arms around you all, now and forever. - Louise
April 27, 2016
OUR HEARTS ACHE FOR YOU. OUR DAUGHTER IS A STUDENT AT WASH U AND HAS RECENTLY BEEN DIAGNOSED WITH DEPRESSION. HER TWIN HAS BEEN SUFFERING WITH BIPOLAR DEPRESSION SINCE EARLY HIGH SCHOOL BUT IS IN REMISSION NOW. WHO KNOWS WHAT CAUSES THIS DISEASE BUT IS SEEMS VERY PREVALENT IN OUR AREA. PRAYERS FOR YOUR FAMILY,
April 26, 2016
The Gilles family is heartbroken for the Longyear family. We pray that you can rely upon the love and support of your friends in the Menlo Park and Palo Alto communities who love you as you grieve for your daughter.
April 25, 2016
I am so sad to hear a beautiful young woman died in such a tragic way. I am deeply sorry for her family's loss.
April 25, 2016
My heart, and prayers, are with you, and her, in this difficult time.