Honoring Katelyn, DeVante, Bella, and Aaliyah

On January 22, 2025, an apartment fire tragically claimed the lives of four beloved members of our family: Katelyn & DeVante McShann, and their two young daughters, Bella Edwards and Aaliyah McShann.

Katelyn and DeVante were a devoted married couple who worked tirelessly to provide a loving and nurturing home for their children. Bella was a vibrant 8-year-old budding musician with a bright future ahead of her, and Aaliyah, just 3 years old, was full of joy and wonder. Their passing has left an indescribable void in our hearts.

I, Janelle Hawthorne, am organizing this fundraiser for my sister Jennifer Zielinski (Katelyn's Mom) and the Zielinski family. We humbly ask for support in covering the expenses for their memorial and funeral services. The funds raised will go toward ensuring Katelyn, DeVante, Bella, and Aaliyah receive the respectful and loving remembrance they deserve and assist their immediate family members with their expenses along with legal expenses dealing with the administrations of their estates as they navigate their loss.

No one should have to face this kind of tragedy alone, and your contributions, no matter the size, will make a difference. If you are unable to donate, please consider sharing this campaign with others. Every act of kindness will help us honor their memory and provide comfort to our grieving family as we go through this difficult time.

From the bottom of our hearts, we thank you for your support, thoughts, and prayers. Please hug your loved ones every chance you can.

With gratitude,

Janelle Hawthorne (Katelyn & DeVante's Aunt, Bella & Aaliyah's Great Aunt) raising funds for Jennifer Zielinski (Katelyn's Mom, DeVante's MIL, Bella & Aaliyah's Mimi) and the Zielinski Family