18-year-old Violette Walker died on January 2, just months away from her high school graduation.
But even as her loved ones mourn her, they say they're determined to ensure her legacy lives on.
On Sunday, nearly 1,000 people attended Violette's Celebration of Life service. They watched a slideshow that featured her favorite songs, alongside photos of her throughout her life -- reminding them that not long ago, she was just a little girl.
But even though her life was short, those who knew Violette say she didn't waste it.
"She accomplished so many things at such a young age," said Dillon Guillen, one of Violette's teachers.
At her high school, Violette was one of the top students in her class. She was also taking classes at Merced College, where her family says she had already earned two degrees.
But her loved ones say, as bright as she was, it paled in comparison to her compassion.
"Violette was always someone who was super kind and selfless, and I think that's a great way to remember her by," said Shaminka Elwin, a friend of Violette's.
From her work helping charities, to her community services in Girl Scouts, to her love and care for animals in need -- Friends and family said she gave everything she had, even after she was gone, as an organ donor.
"Because of Violette, five people who have never met her have had their lives changed because of her," said Shawn Luce, a close friend of the Walker family.
Luce has worked alongside Violette's father, Merced City Fire Captain Mark Walker, for over 20 years. He says not only has Violette changed lives, but she has also walked in her father's footsteps by saving lives.
During Violette's memorial, Luce presented plaques to her parents in honor of her saving those lives. Including a 6-year-old boy who now has a new heartbeat and a new chance at life because of her.
"To me, the most difficult part of the program was to present those plaques that commemorated the lives that she saved. But how appropriate it is for what she did in her life," Luce said.
He says even now, Violette's legacy continues to live on, not only in the lives she's saved, but in the people she's inspired.
"How great it is to see a community come together in something like this. And as tragic as it is, as tough as it can be, we recognize the light that she is to so many people," he said.
Luce says he's already seen her reflection in the people she knew. Many of them taking notes from their friend, saying from now on they want to live like Violette.
"Losing someone like that... I think that her memory being honored is definitely the best way for her memory to live on," Elwin said.
Violette's family wanted to honor her legacy by supporting the causes she cared so much about. In doing so, they are asking that you consider getting involved or donating to one or several of the organizations listed below: