Community gathers for celebration of life for 8-year-old girl allegedly murdered by her mother

The community gathered in Inwood, West Virginia, to participate in a celebration of life for an eight-year-old girl that was taken too soon. 

Eliza Orellana, 8, hadn’t even lived a decade when family, friends, law enforcement gathered at St. Leo Catholic Church to pay their respects. 

Police say on September 20, her mother killed her and wounded her older sister. Those attending the service say she radiated happiness, remembering her sassy vibrant personality. 

“She was a happy, happy girl. Always a smile on her face,” said Katie Keysor, a family friend.

She says her husband is a good friend of Eliza’s father, and is Eliza’s Godfather. 

“We are more sorry than we could ever say. Anything that they need at all, the community is here for them,” Keysor said. 

The nearly two hour service brought the community together to honor her memory of a young girl that those in attendance say taught people about the meaning of life. Her spirit will continue to shine and live through. 

“Eliza was a very happy child,” said Keysor. “She loved with all her soul and she would forgive anyone for anything and I think she was everything that adults strive to be.”