Father mourns loss of 20-year-old daughter killed by school bus in Fairwood

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FAIRWOOD, Wash. – Thomas Allen shared the following statement reflecting on the life of his daughter, 20-year-old Eva Allen, after .

Eva was the kind of person who made the world feel safer just by being in it.

From the moment Eva entered a space—human or animal—you could feel it: warmth, acceptance, and a quiet understanding that you were welcome exactly as you were. To know Eva was to know what it felt like to be loved, even in the parts of yourself you thought were too broken, too dark, or too much.

Eva was resilient, gentle, altruistic, and endlessly optimistic. Despite the challenges and hardships life placed in Eva’s path, that softness never hardened. That kindness never dimmed. Love was never withheld. Eva spread love like glitter—effortlessly, everywhere, and in ways that stayed with you.

At just 20 years old, Eva was preparing to begin a second semester of college and was deeply passionate about becoming a teacher for autistic children. Eva believed in helping others feel safe, seen, and capable—especially those who needed it most. The world has lost someone who would have changed lives simply by being exactly who Eva was.

Tragically and unexpectedly, Eva passed away after being struck by a school bus. This loss has left family and loved ones heartbroken, trying to navigate profound grief alongside the very real and immediate responsibilities of laying Eva to rest.

We are raising funds to help cover:

• Funeral and viewing services in Washington

• Cremation and related arrangements

• Transportation to bring Eva to Utah

• Burial expenses, including a headstone, at Eva’s resting place in Utah

• Additional related costs as the family navigates this unimaginable loss and an ongoing investigation

This fundraiser is being organized by Eva’s father, Tom, and Eva’s cousin, Jaz. All funds will go directly to Tom and Eva’s stepmother, Marie, to help ease the financial burden during this painful time.

Eva was the kind of soul the universe places in someone’s life exactly when they need it most. Eva’s presence was like an exit sign in people’s darkest spaces—quietly reminding them that love still exists. When others trusted Eva with their darkness, hearts and vulnerability, Eva had a way of showing them that their personal demons were never scary demons at all—just small, fuzzy, hurting things asking for gentleness, care, and maybe a hug.

While Eva is no longer physically here to continue spreading that love, we are committed to carrying it forward.

If you are able, please consider donating. If donating isn’t possible, sharing this fundraiser makes a meaningful difference. If you are a business owner or able to offer time, services, or resources, please reach out to Jaz directly.

Most of all, we invite you to honor Eva by choosing kindness—by spreading love when given the chance, and by making someone feel safe, seen, and accepted today. That is how Eva lived. That is how Eva’s light continues.

Thank you for holding Eva and our family in your hearts. We are deeply grateful for every act of love, generosity, and support.


 

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