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Katie Chase, 15, died in the fire on the second story of a townhome on the 11500 block of Shell Flower Lane in Columbia around 7:30 p.m. March 20.
She is survived by her loving mother, Sue; and her sister, Nicole.
More than $8,500 has been raised on a GoFundMe created by loved ones to support the family following the fatal fire. A second campaign launched by the Community of Clary's Choice had surpassed $4,500 as well.
The proceeds from the fundraisers would be contributed to the family’s expenses — “anything they may need.”
While now facing both the displacement and loss of her daughter, Sue continues to cope with a difficult loss, one of the campaigns says.
“Only 2 1/2 years ago they also lost John Chase, husband and father,” reads the fundraiser.
“Coping with the loss of a loved one is one of the most challenging experiences anyone can face…Losing both Katie and John in such a short period of time has added further stress to an already overwhelming situation.”
Tributes flooded social media for the grieving family:
A fundraiser had also been arranged on the Bright Minds Howard County Public Schools Education Foundation.
“The family are members of multiple HCPSS school communities, and the Bright Minds Foundation is helping to coordinate donations in support of the family's needs,” reads the campaign. Contributions can be made online or emailed to jennifer@brightmindsfoundation.org.
“Please consider supporting Sue and Nicole to help them navigate through this challenging period of grief and transition,” reads the GoFundMe launched by loved ones.
“With time, patience, and support, we hope they can gradually find ways to honor the memory of Katie and John while also moving forward with their lives.”
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