Zaia Karen Loomis aka “Grey”

When Grey was sweet little baby Z, they would keep me on my toes as a babysitter! We read, we watched, we played, we snuggled, we ate amazing snacks like homemade pickles and yummy fresh veggies from the garden. I'm honored to treasure those memories. I hold dear those parental lessons before I became a parent myself. I had the experience of seeing a loving home with sweet babies and a healthier lifestyle. Grey will live forever in my heart and so many others. Sending love and support. We look forward to contributing to her legacy further at the Ocho. We love you all. Love the Reeds, Hilla, David, Trenton, & Wyatt.

Having known James and Michelle before Zaia came along, I was awaiting this beautiful love child before she was born. Every year I would come out to Salt Lake to visit and DJ with James and one of the biggest highlights was always seeing how much his kids had grown and what their current vibe was. I was always so blown away by Zaia's strength, intuitiveness, creativity and beauty. She was truly a force of nature, my band mate (co founder of Harmony Princesses) and I adored her so very much! I have many memories of camping and festivals alongside the Loomis family where Zaia would run free and spread her charm in every direction. She will be sorely missed and I will keep the memories in my heart forever. All my love to James, Michelle, and Ziggy.

My 15 year old, Sarah, met Grey through mutual friends. I picked the three of them up from a local concert recently and took Grey home after. They were a very nice, sweet kid, and left an impression on us. I remember telling them they lived in such a cool neighborhood and I loved all the plants they were growing in their yard, when dropping them off. When Sarah told me their passing I just broke down and sobbed. My heart goes out to Grey's friends and family. I've been thinking of you and your precious child all week.

All I know right now is that I’m beyond grateful to be Greys Auntie! She spent lots of time with me and my kids when she was younger and just became one of my babies. She always had such a bright spirit, thoughtful, and absolutely beautiful from the inside out! I wish I could have hugged her tighter and longer the last time we were together. A piece of my heart will always be with Grey🩶. I have many stories and memories, but for now I want to keep them and will share another time.

I met Zaia / Grey as a very young kiddo while visiting the Jenkstar ranch. Our daughter is a couple years older and we were enjoying a firepit and some glow toys when the Loomis family dropped by! It was a very sweet and fun first connection. The March before last, our family went over-landing in a group that included Zaia /Grey and our daughter Marlo. Those gals folded in together for sleep and to do their make-up each day. There was something dear about their quick ability to align and enjoy being together. We had one other teen male and also Ziggy on that trip. I recall feeling so charmed by their rapport. I cherish this memory. So much love from our family to yours Molly, Kyle, Marlo

Every year Michelle would load up Zaia and Ziggy and take them to High Sierra Music Festival. The last time I attended High Sierra was in 2017, and quickly was made aware of the Loomis clan presence. Throughout the weekend I would run into them in various places. Perhaps my favorite encounter was late night one night in front of a music hall jam where Michelle had loaded the kids into a wagon where they slept peacefully curled up together, parked in front of the venue. For those that have attended a multiple days long music festival you know how tiring it can be. On the morning of the last day I was sitting by myself in the big field watching a gospel performance. Out of nowhere Zaia came wandering through the crowd all alone and looking bedraggled as if she had been up all night. Without a word she put her head in my lap, napped for about a half hour, then silently got up and carried on. Not a word was spoken by either of us during this encounter. It was so precious that in a crowd of strangers she recognized me and felt safe to take a respite from the festival chaos and then carry on to who knows where. We've spent many nights camping beside the Loomis clan at many different events. These are times I'll never forget.

Many of my days were spent at the Green Phoenix Farm over the past 6 years! On occasion i would come swinging the door open to the idea lab to find Grey and Zig chillin out eating snacks and playing on or using the computers. One day Grey started asking me about the art on the walls in the lab. I sat with them and told them about how each peice came to life through one of our green team members. They marveled at the uniquely crafted peices of art and asked can I join in on an art project sometime soon. Of course I said ABSOLUTELY! They then said oh and I LOVE YOUR EARRINGS! I said thank you I made them they said NO WAY REALLY? I said yep and I took them off my ears and said now they're yours! They put them on right then and there and went to show their dad-look dad Coco gave me her earrings. Her dad said of course she did! At the next farmily dinner we had a tye dye station set up. Grey was at the station the entire evening. They made a bag, a few t-shirts, socks and even a few handkerchiefs. They told me make sure you give these to my dad once they're dried! Such a creative and curious soul!

We first meet Zaia when we helped out on a farm mob at Onsen farms. We brought our kids and they immediately connected. She was so energetic to show us everything on the land. What a wonderful time we all had playing and working together. I had to dig into our pictures to find the time we visited the farm. Sweet girl, you will be missed. http://photos.lemonniers.com/mo/sharing/tGsTAWsp4#/

Dear Grey, I remember your parents before they invited you to join them here. They were married the same day as my sister, 07/07/07. While I was not witness to this beautiful union of Beings, I heard of it and was moved by the memories that were shared. The invocation of this intentional dream, one of starting a family was so inspiring to me.. it was as if you could feel the cosmic forces being assembled and readied for your arrival... ..and oh my God, when you arrived, your beautiful precious energy was what the world so needed. It was like a fountain of light force; being poured around to those who wished to partake of it. Your energy as you zoomed around with a smile, lit the sky behind it.. Your eyes filled with delight and magic, igniting hope in the hearts of all... One of my most cherished memories of you was the day you came up to me and gave me an invitation I could not refuse. I had been visiting with friends on your mother's porch, when you asked if I wanted to walk around the block. I said sure, not knowing what an amazing adventure I was in for... It felt like I had entered the pages of a story book that you were writing and narrating as we traveled. This delicious experience felt like eternity witnessed. There was no stone or flower forgotten. There were mystical creatures that joined us, they each had a name. This was such a treat; I felt like I had a front row seat next to a Galactic Ambassador showing me where all the best secrets were kept. I will never forget this day. I wish I had returned. This memory feels like I can hold it, feel it, keep it, cherish it, pour my love into it, grow it in your honor. I am sorry I missed the opportunity to serve your sweet spirit while you were here. I ask for your forgiveness and send to you my love and adoration. Please know you changed this world, one heart at a time and will never be forgotten. Shalom, Marin

Dear Zaia, When I met you, it was love at 1st sight. You were so little, 3 or 4 years old, and you grabbed my hand to show me your garden and boc boc’s (chickens). I was so inspired by you guys and I wanted a little family just like yours. Tyson and I took off after that to look for eco-Villages and created giggle juice café in order to more intimately engage with the festival circuit. We realize that the eco-villages weren’t quite happening yet. We met a lot of inspiring people and wild babies. We moved to California and had Paulo and Leo and then moved back to Utah. We became very close with you and your family at that time and got involved with what would later be named the Ocho project. You always felt like family to me. I loved watching you with Paulo and Leo and all of the other kids playing wild and free. Being part of that community was everything I had been searching for. One of my favorite memories with you was driving in the car with you and Paulo and Leo in the summertime with the windows down singing to the top of our lungs “Watermelon Sugar High”. You brought so much joy and love and playfulness to my life. I was crushed by a wave of emotion to hear the sad news. Many Synchronicities happened right within days before and after of your passing that showed me that we are still connected, even though I haven’t seen you since your sixth grade graduation. I want you to know I understand. I have also been through times of extreme darkness, feeling like I was alone in the desert, and at a dead end where I felt like there were no options. I wish I could have been there for you to talk to you through whatever you were going through. The deep loss and grief I feel is a reflection of the joy of having been impacted by you. My love for you is eternal. I trust that you are safe on the other side, that your metamorphosis is like a butterfly emerging from the cocoon. That you are with us on a higher dimension without the density of the 3-D. You live on in our garden and in our memories I will see you again in my dreams. I love you, Angel, Tyson, Paulo, Leo

In March of 2015, Sandra and I went to Onsen Hot Spring in Idaho. Grey was 6 years old and living there at the time. We had a golden retriever named Kopi who was about 1 year old. We were still working on leash training Kopi. We needed to take Kopi for a walk to burn off some of her puppy energy. In Grey’s outgoing spirit they asked if they could go on a walk with us, we delightfully obliged. During the walk, Grey asked to take the leash to walk Kopi. I handed over the leash. Shortly thereafter Kopi saw something and took off chasing. Kopi’s momentum took Grey to the ground and drug Grey for a few feet across the gravel road before Grey could release the leash tangled around their wrist. There was a bit of injury from this mishap that happened in a flash of seconds. Grey’s knees, elbows and hands were bleeding, bruised, a bit raw and scuffed up. I felt responsible, this could have been prevented had I not let Grey take the leash. But for better and worse, I have been much more a “yes” person than a “no” person throughout my life. We were about a quarter mile from Onsen. I resumed control of Kopi. We walked back to Onsen with Grey. Although Grey cried from the sting and burn of the road rash, they did not show any anger, frustration, angst, reprehension or negative sentiments whatsoever. Michelle nurtured and tended to Grey’s wounds. James offered Grey words of encouragement. Within several hours, Grey was asking us if they could walk Kopi again and take the leash. Grey did not seem to have any fear or concern of being injured and seemed even more excited and confident to go for a second walk with Kopi. Grey, We will forever hold a space in our hearts and minds for you, Aaron Blackham, Sandra Li, and Kopi

I love you Fish. You've been a loving inspiration to your children. I am by your side. Many are arm and arm with you. You're move and flow, I fall and dust off my knees. No dust here though. Just love and eternal. Painting a picture tonight. "Grey" I love you all so very much. Grey○°°•°••○○•°♡♡♡♡

I'll always cherish all of the adventures we had. Like the time we were mudding and i got bucked into the roof of the truck and Grey immediately wrapped their arms around me and grabbed my head asking if I was okay. We were laughing so hard but it was so sweet to see such a young human care for the wellbeing of another so instinctively. They were always checking in with everyone, inquisitive, and comfortable with all the adult friends and cultivating a friendship with them. And I always thought about what a special human Grey was. I'm so grateful to have watched Grey grow into their own person over the years and I'll hold dear all of the adventures we experienced together. Love, Cami.

I remember the first time meeting James. I have no idea what year, but it was a long time ago. He told us about his family. He talked about his babies. I was impressed as a mom myself because you could feel the love for his kids. I knew I liked him right off the bat. I remember meeting both Z and Grey at Building Man. I loved watching them grow up there. They were always so free and feral :) Grey always had the coolest style. They were not afraid to talk to adults and was in the action. Grey grew up to be a beautiful teen. It was neat to watch them from the sidelines. I love the Loomis family and my heart aches for your loss. Sending so much love from my heart to yours. Kam

The first time I met Zaia she was maybe 2 years old. Troy, James & Michelle wanted to go snowboarding and I offered to stay back with her and have fun while they were away. I could not believe how fully present this child was and her vocabulary at such a young age! We talked about her garden that she showed me around for a few hours and she asked me questions, lots of questions. She was curious and absorbed everything. She hugged me a lot. Just randomly and full of so much heart, a little bear hug. She asked if we could go for a walk so we went towards the park from her home but we never made it because she stopped and spoke to every single person we saw. Warming their hearts and asking questions. We made it to a basketball court where there were about 4 middle aged boys playing. She went right up to them, "Hi! I'm Zaia! Can I play with you?!?!" They all stopped what they were doing and gave her their full attention. The were so cute becoming like instant older brothers coddeling over their tiny sister, trying to teach her how to play a game that was much to Big for her while making sure she didn't get hurt. She basically just rolled the ball around and they held her up to make a basket. Eventually she was getting tired and I asked if she wanted to walk home. She did so we made our way back. We walked slowly as we had no timeline or anywhere to be and she would stop to look at different plants and bugs. At one point she randomly turns around and puts her hand up. I said, "Do you want to hold my hand." She said "Yes, I just love you." My heart! It was at that moment I knew I wanted to have a child. She was the purest, smartest, most inquisitive, bravest, most loving, sweet little human I had ever met and Zaia had me wrapped around her finger from that moment forward. I just said, "Anything you want kid." And I meant it. Forever. We lived on the outskirts of town and didn't see the loomis' as much as we'd have loved to if we lived closer. However, everytime we got a visit to our home our we got to come out on an adventure with them, she was the highlight. Always having some new things she was into or adventure she was excited about going on, or little teopp of friends she was pack leader of, and just very present in the moment recognizing when people needed love and paying attention the world around her, animals, plants, bugs, water, cools rocks, & people. I didn't get to see her grow into the beautiful young lady that left us but I know that she was an impact maker and I am sure there are endless broken hearts in response to her deprature of earth. Sending my deepest love to you on your next soul journey sweet Grey! We love you! Deepest love and condolences to your sweet family and all the ones who were close. 💗🩶

Theirs was and is a mighty love story. Words to describe the encounters of someone they had relatively little interaction with fall short of the immense teaching that such a strong individual has made in a relatively small amount of time; even though the message is obvious - the soul is eternal and they are infinitely magical, as well as everyone else. I met Zaia only a couple of times. The first being (maybe) at Paradise Hotsprings(if not the Krishna Temple) for a marriage turned festival, she left an impression by her intensity, and yet, (equal) simplicity. Must have been (is) Love and Presence. The next couple of times we ran into one another would be at the Krishna Temple for Ecstatic Dance. They were a gymnist at the time and would play, and show me their tricks on the monkey bars. She also had no problem saying I didn't need to worry because she's twelve and will help with the kids. I remember her loving my dog, Salud Quest Ninja, and saying she'd want one just like her. Once Covid and the shutdowns happened, we didn't see the community the same and I only had a couple more brief interactions with Grey in 2022. Once at the OchO and another at the Shop Local Christmas at Grateful tomatoes. They gave me unhesitated, unexpected, and silent heartfelt embraces (hugs). I would have loved to spend more human time with Grey, to have offered back some of the wisdom and care they showed during those times our paths crossed. I've felt similarly that leading up to and after their transition there has been synchronicities and signs that are potentially just life and the mind at play to make sense of our crazy existence; or likely the energy of Divine Love in the ether a powerful Angel has joined Source with again meant to bewilder, evoke emotion, astonish and grow the hearts in deeper understanding of spiritual connectedness, peace, and the more beautiful world our hearts know is on way. "On a quiet day, I can hear (her) the Earth breathing." (Arundhati Roy) This is not to make light of what has happened. This tragedy has hurt deeply; I know Grey's closest family and friends are grieving the most. And i imagine have had similar occurences of beauty revealed by a souls seriously courageous impetus. My family - Arrow, Alder, April, Sara and Myself feels the pain and share condolences. We love you Zaia K. "Grey" Loomis may you continue to lead from the heavens and guide us by the sky to the inclusive, loving, and free future we all know we ache and strive for. You will be remembered.

I had the pleasure of meeting Grey when they were attending Clayton Middle School. I was a school counselor there at the time and I developed a close relationship with them. Grey would attend my counseling groups I put on both in-person and over video chat (we were remote at one point due to covid closures). When we were doing groups over Zoom, they never missed a meeting. When we were able to return to in-person, I had the pleasure of meeting with Grey on a pretty regular basis one-on-one. I'll never forget one of our pretty serious meetings in regards to some help the needed about school grades and their social circle. Grey was not interested in the "monotony" of class. I told them that in all honesty, I completely agree and was not a fan of the system hahaha (I no longer work in schools). We both laughed and shared our outrage about how things "should be." But I encouraged them to at least try to squeak by with passing grades so they didn't end up getting more pointless work so that they could continue putting their energy into things more important to them, like friendships and hobbies. They took my advice and ended up doing fairly well in their classes the rest of the school year. I loved when Grey shared their view or opinion of things with the other kids. They made people think differently. Grey was unique, probably why they were one of my favorite students I worked with to this day. I'll cherish our heart-to-heart conversations, challenging the way things are and discussing ideas to make life bigger and better. my heart is heavy with their passing, but I know their light will keep shining on all who knew them.

My times spent with Zaia Grey weren’t many. But the times we did share together were filled with laughter and adventures. The story about Zaia Gray that will forever warm my heart and soul, I had just got a new puppy and I had brought her to James’s house to come up for a visit and go to a dubwise event that night. Zaia was tasked with watching the new puppy while we were out, well lol, Zaia tasked themselves with being in charge of the puppy! They wouldn’t have it any other way. At the time I hadn’t settled on a name yet for my new puppy, I was calling her “lily” but that didn’t seem right. That night, Zaia looks right at the pup and said “she looks like a bat! She’s like the bat on that bottle!” (It was a Bacardi bottle lol), I laughed and 100 percent agreed, I said we could call her “Bacardi” and Zaia instantly says “Bacardi B!!!” And we all died laughing because cardi b was in the spotlight at the time. So it was established, my dog shall now be named Bacardi B, which eventually was shortened to B.B, and now is “Baby”. I feel so blessed to have this memory and to look at my now 5 year old dog Baby and be always reminded of how special Zaia Grey was and how precious time spent can be, even if it’s brief, those moments last forever. I think Zaia only wanted to come visit me to hang out with my dogs lol, and I absolutely love that, they were just an incredible caretaker and their imagination always left me in awe and laughing!!! Thank you Zaia Grey. We love you, Joey/Baby/Beans (Zaia also loved to draw pictures of my cat Bean, my fridge had several renditions hanging for some time)

Sometimes life happens and you find yourself immersed in emergency situations that you feel might kill you. How did this happen? How did we go from innocence and well-meaning good intentions to completely derailed and trying to pick up the pieces, desperately trying to hold it all together? You might even have faith, or insist on holding on to the idea that as unlikely as it seems that you can bring things back to whole, if you can just hold on…. Parenthood can be hard. I thought I had dodged a bullet with my far from ideal situation. From my perspective my kids were just rocking it at school, both maintaining excellent grades; both having good friends; one a voracious reader; one an easy-going, kind-hearted little boy who takes life and all its struggles with grace. I’d seen glimpses of potential problems, but my boys were just kids being kids, and everything seems fine until it’s not. One day, I’m at a parent-teacher conference being told that my kid is the pace-setter for progress and getting straight A’s and the next, I’m driving home with the two of them from visiting my brother, their uncle, in Las Vegas for Thanksgiving when, on the way, I ask them how things are going with school. One of them drops a bomb when he says he hasn’t gone to class in over a month. How was that even possible? He was attending a self-guided high school where kids are encouraged to work at their own pace and have the opportunity to get ahead, the chance to get some college out of the way during their high school years. My son had completed his high school coursework in under three years and was already enrolled in college classes. Now, he’s telling me he’s not even going!? Within a day after we got home from Las Vegas, my brother called me and explained my son had offered his step-son psychedelic mushrooms while we visited. The problems seemed to unfold like a settling mushroom cloud. Next, it was strange twitches and explanations of not being able to maintain train of thought. Then anxiety seemed to strangle his ability to even be around his many friends. His frustrations soon turned on me. It seemed that I was now, in his mind, the one responsible for this life that seemed to be imploding. There was a week spent in the hospital. There was aggression directed at me, when in my mind, I had been trying to give this parenting thing my all, I was being called a dumb ass my son, being literally taunted by him, threatened by him and holes were punched in walls, work computers were destroyed and I became desperate. What happened and where did I go wrong!? The troubled times lasted the better part of three years. I had to do things I never imagined. My anxiety was through the roof. I couldn’t sleep. I started having panic attacks in work meetings, feeling like I could not disguise the chaos. Then I got an invitation to attend a campout with some friends of mine, their kids who were about my kids age, a little younger. But I knew they could have fun together. This was to involve some time in the San Rafael Swell near Goblin Valley State Park, and hike through a slot canyon called Crack Canyon and a couple of nights in our tent. The boys and I and our dog, Cookie, had all done the hike through Crack Canyon a couple of times a few years earlier during a time when life seemed pretty lucky and relatively untroubled, considering the fact that I was trying to do this parenting thing mostly on my own. Sometimes, I wondered if there would ever be a repercussion due to a missing maternal figure in their lives. I thought to myself, I need to be both paternal and maternal. As much as I tried to do that, I don’t think that really works. I am not a mother. But I tried to cook on a regular basis, to get them to school, attend all the meetings and school functions, involve them in all my interests, buy them season passes and take them snowboarding with me on a regular basis. I think my attempt worked to some degree, but not completely. Your kids will never see the world from an adult perspective. This was the world they were given, and they didn’t ask for any of it. So, yes, they are going to take many things you think shouldn’t be taken for granted, for granted. I asked the boys, would you both want to come camping with me in the desert. James and his kids invited us to spend the weekend with them and I would love to be able to have the three of us spend it together. “I’ll go if we can bring Cookie,” my son replied. “Of course, we will bring Cookie,” I responded. During most of those early years after their mother left, when they were just 3 and 6 years old and for many years after, we would off to the desert or the national parks. We visited Arches, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, Bryce and Zion. We rafted the Ruby-Horsethief Canyon section of the Colorado River, the Desolation Canyon section of the Green River. Cookie came along on some of those rafting trips . She swam at least once. We hit the rapids and her instinct was to stand up, not crouch down like she should have. We drove down Highway 12 and camped off the Burr Trail Road. We just picked random spots and pitched the tent. We met our friend in the morning for an Easter egg hunt just down the road at the Calf Creek Recreation Area. We hiked to the Lower Calf Creek Falls. Cookie happily accompanied us. We hung out beneath the falls and life seemed full and complete. Our adventures took us to mountain tops and mountain biking trips and campouts by Bear Lake. We even spent a weekend at an Utah alt-festival called Melon Nights. One of my kids asked, “Why can’t we just be at Goblin Valley where it’s quiet,” and I understood his yearning for the intimacy of just our little family and quiet nature. Melon Nights certainly was not that. I said, “Absolutely, Cookie can come.” I also yearned for the relative simplicity of those early years I had with my sons. At the same time, Cookie was starting to physically falter. She was 13 years old, at the time, and sometimes she struggled on our daily walks. She’d trip on cracks in the sidewalk, fall forward to her face on the ground and struggle to get back up. I knew her healthiest days were behind her, but she was also a sort of glue for our little family. I wanted her to come. So, while it wasn’t the right decision for her perhaps, it seemed to be what my son wanted and I was definitely longing to have another experience, to relive some of my best times as a parent. The four of us departed Salt Lake City for the desert, and it felt like old times. My sons conversed and there was plenty of mischievous laughter along the way. To me, this signaled normalcy and connection, and it filled my heart. We arrived to Temple Mountain Road after dark, which was the turn off for Crack Canyon and for where James and Kari said they would be camping. After driving around the desert wilderness for awhile looking for the campsite and not finding it, we decided it would be better to camp at one of the established BLM campsites. There were a few of them in the area and then we could continue looking for them in the morning light. So, we set up the tent, got out the snacks and drinks and the boys played around with Cookie. The full moon lit up the surrounding cliffs and my nostalgia kicked in. I walked over to the announcement/notification board and found a letter posted from Kari Larson with a brief description of where they were located. I showed it to the boys and we all agreed we should go find them. We drove down Behind the Reef Road for a couple of miles when we saw lights and heard people and dubstep music. We correctly assumed it was them. Everyone was there – James, Kari, Sean, Zaia, Ziggy, Golden, and a few others. We set up camp in the chilly November night air and got everything ready for sleep. All the kids were happy to have each other’s company. We were in the right place at the right time and this was exactly what I had hoped for. After a couple of hours, the four of us, including Cookie, bundled up in the tent to keep each other warm and get to sleep. The canyon there can get cold early in the evening and stays cold fairly late into the morning that time of the year, as the sun takes some time to emerge over the towering cliff walls. In the morning, the group gathered for camp coffee flavored with Irish cream, a bite to eat and some warm up mountain biking on the sandstone leading to the canyon we’d soon be hiking. We popped off little ledges and found waves of sandstone to ride along and descended down through adventurous features. One of my sons crashed, and implied an annoyance with me that I would subject him to the potentially dangerous riding found there. We continued along down the natural path, clearly not intended for biking, and rode back up a wash to Behind the Reef Road. There, Kari kindly picked us up in her truck and returned us to camp. Before the hike, a group of us decided we had time for one more ride. Finally, we assembled our crew to begin our 13-mile trek through Crack and Chute Canyons. At first, it’s a wide wash that gradually narrows into a shadowed rock fortress that rises hundreds of feet to golden towers tall enough to catch and reflect the sun’s light. The contrast between the dark and chilly canyon bottom beckoned us forward like a beacon, or a moth to flame. The streaked walls gave way to a distant shining palace of rock that seemed to stand directly in our path. Truly, it marked a sharp right bend in the canyon. The sky was bright and pure navy blue. It was a perfect day for our adventure. We all stopped to take photographs where the canyon was narrowing from wide wash to slot canyon. Many people describe the walls here to resemble Swiss cheese. They are pocked with hundreds of openings that sparked my imagination conjuring ghosts, ghouls and frights to ward off passersby, that entry would be ill-advised. Some of the openings are wide enough that a child could easily climb inside and lie down in a perfectly shaped contour for a nice shaded slumber. If it was a hot summer month, each of us may have all found our own little ergonomic cot for a cool photo-op or actual slumber to escape the heat. Zaia and my son, David, took their opportunity to slip into their own cubbies for a few moments. We ventured down canyon into a section that begins to feel like a cave with only a sliver of sky. These narrow sections have the true magic of slot canyons. It’s where the scale becomes evident as the contrast of light and shadow mark height and the undulating walls, showing the unusual shape of rock mimicking the water, as well as the time it took nature to sculpt it. We all approached a few ledges where we watched the kids and where I was particularly concerned for my fragile dog. I frequently stopped to assist Cookie down and over the features. James and Kari both questioned my judgment on bringing her. Her presence was evidence of my reckless disregard for her advanced age, her obvious arthritis and her well-being. Shame on me. My desire for a nostalgic moment really shouldn’t have outweighed Cookie’s reality. We arrived at the largest drop in the canyon, which was perhaps 8 feet from top to bottom. We could bend our bodies down from the top using our feet as leverage off an adjacent rock’s curve and then hop down to the bottom. It wasn’t particularly demanding, but Cookie would need to be handed down to a person below. From here, the canyon gradually widened and filled with sunshine, warming the air and inviting us to continue onward to our lunchtime spot. Cookie was starting to show her fatigue. As I walked ahead, I looked back and saw the four kids laughing together. That view was perfect. Ziggy wanted the older boys’ attention and he told jokes and they all laughed. He really does have his father’s sense of humor. Zaia smiled and enjoyed being with the group, and I watched them all, extremely satisfied we were all getting to have this moment. Zaia exuded a rebellious, daring nature, clearly unafraid and unapologetic to be her authentic self. I always sensed that about her. She seemed to love being involved with her peers while embracing her individuality and she had a comfort with herself that seemed to suggest, “If you need me, I’m here.” But she actually cared so much, that was clear. When we stopped for lunch, Cookie laid down, panting vigorously, and clearly out of gas. James and Kari looked over their map for the upcoming 7 miles to hike out Chute Canyon. “Cookie’s not going to be able to make it,” Kari remarked. “You really shouldn’t have brought her.” And I knew that, but I had my reasons. I also knew that I would have to let the group leave me, my boys and Cookie so they could complete their planned route. It was okay. Before the trip, David and I had discussed this likelihood. I let him know that if she wasn’t able to endure it, that she would be his responsibility. It had been made clear. I knew it. He knew it. We had both accepted this possibility and now we were facing it. Zaia wanted to stay with us for the hike out. It was probably fun for her to adventure with some older boys who she was only just getting to know. Our group split up and we said our goodbyes. Our first thought was to hike out another way, to the badlands just west of Goblin Valley State Park. So, we continued down Crack Canyon further than I had ever ventured before, maybe another quarter mile, when we arrived at another ledge. It was narrow and it appeared to be 40 or 50 feet down. We scrambled around trying to see if there was any other obvious way to continue. Nothing seemed certain to me. So, we walked back up to where we parted ways with the rest, and decided to take a look to see if there was an obvious path to get over to Chute Canyon, where they hiked out. We hiked up, scrambled around for a half hour or so and everything seemed so ambiguous. I thought about how cold it would be once the sun went down and glanced over our group all dressed in nothing more than t-shirts, Cookie draped over David’s shoulder. I estimated how long it had taken us to hike to the bottom of Crack Canyon against how much sunlight we’d have to get back to our car. It was gonna be tight, to be hiking through a frigid, dark slot canyon littered with scrambled rocks, up-climbs, boulders, and the ledges, and with Cookie! “Guys, we’re hiking back through Crack Canyon and we gotta go, NOW,” I declared. We were now all legitimately fatigued and Cookie was done. So, we started back and I kept pace ahead of the kids within line of sight. I needed to force them to move, so I just kept my lead and my pace brisk. Occasionally, I’d round a corner a go no further than the sound of their voices. I had to push them. I was now responsible for not only my sons, but my friend’s daughter. I was feeling the urgency knowing that not making it out before dark was not an option. My imagination conjured an image of me, the 3 kids and Cookie shivering in the pitch-black slot canyon all huddled together trying to endure a freezing night and being able to go no further. No way! Let’s pick up the pace, guys. We gotta move! We came to the big ledge, and Zaia climbed up first. I went second. Zaia insisted on reaching down to grab Cookie, which Max and David both pushed up toward her. I held Zaia’s waist tightly as she pulled her up. “Awesome,” I thought. “Our biggest challenge overcome.” David and Max wrangled themselves up. We congratulated each other on the effort, and David draped the 60+ pound dog back over his shoulders. It had to have been mildly agonizing to carry her like that. We pushed on taking periodic short stops for David to rest. Seeing David SHOULDER this burden was quite impressive and after the past several years of turbulence in the household, this seemed like something of a self-imposed atonement, and I was, frankly, proud of him for it. *note – after hearing part of this story, David recently explained to me that, with Zaia with us, he wanted to appear tough. The canyon started to widen and I felt a sense of relief knowing that we were now safe. Even if it got dark, we would be walking in a wash within a relatively short distance of my car. I remember congratulating Zaia on her effort and for hanging in there. Her response seemed to evoke, “I got this, no sweat…” Zaia was one cool cookie, and she was tough. The four of us and Cookie, still on David’s shoulders, came to the top of a rise and my car came into view. Goddamn, that was a welcome sight. I turned and watched the kids continuing their march in triumph, and I took several pictures. Zaia walked between Max and David flashing the bird to the camera. So awesome. A little badass! I turn my attention to James as this story involves one cool experience that I got to share with his daughter. This is from a father to a father, and knowing how much my little humans mean to me, and knowing James, seeing the type of father he is, and how he has endeavored to teach them to be responsible earthlings, to be conscientious of others, while allowing them to grow into their own skins, as the people they are, and seeing him respect that. James…. I can only imagine what you’re enduring It doesn’t make sense, and I don’t think it ever will! Much love to you and Ziggy, all of your family and friends, and to all of those who had the good fortune to experience the life of Zaia.

I've had the opportunity to know Zaia/Grey their entire life. Sean and I raised our children with James and Michelle. Jaeden being just one year older than Grey, we would partner together at the events, and let the kiddos hang out. Who knew that so many years later that they would be sharing a household together. I have so many memories of festivals, hikes, Liberty Park or times that I would babysit you. A few memories of you that I have reflected on recently include dancing with you as a young child, watching you and Jaeden interact together, getting down to James playing "Thrush" after you had that and music become of it, watching you slay it behind Brylan's boat! You absolutely killed it! I had the opportunity to drive you home from the Ocho, and we just listed to all the music you wanted to play. We chatted, laughed and I was able to witness you as the young adult you were becoming. You are an incredibly beautiful human. I'm so grateful that you have impacted my family in so many positive ways, and you will always be remembered.

Besides the time(s) we danced around the solar saucer at the Jenkstar when we were both much younger, to our many trips on the Snake River near the Ocho, I remember our first trip together through Westwater Canyon the most. James captained Esmeralda with Ziggy and Grey as crew while I followed close behind on Big Betty through the rapids. As you get closer to Skull rapid the raft ahead disappears as it drops into the rapid. As I entered skull I witnessed James and Ziggy being thrown from the raft and Grey, looking around realizing they were the sole occupant with a mix of terror and excitement on their face! I screamed “Hang On!!”, though you can’t hear a damn thing in the midst of rapids and I soon found myself hanging on while I also took a wild ride! In the end, we had a couple of cold and wet friends, a couple broken or bent oars, and very big smiles on our faces. I learned a lot about makeup and hair, the latest music and silly videos on that trip. I loved how authentic and expressive and fun they were, inspiring me to also do the same! I’ll never forget that face in skull rapid and their fantastic taste! All my love, always! 🩶

I remember seeing Grey with a gaggle of kids on a beautiful day at the OchO. I overheard one little kid crying, and Grey asked them what was going on. Another little kid at hurt their feelings. Grey coached the little kid through their processing. Grey asked the little kid if they were ready to share the impact with the other kid who hurt their feelings, and they were. Grey went with the little kid and supported them through the experience. I remember being so amazed to witness Grey's emotional intelligence. Their impact on our world will ripple onward forever. Sending my condolences to Michelle, Ziggy, James, and Kari.

My favorite memory of Zaia is on her. I believe her for fourth birthday. They held it up Cottonwood Canyon in some beautiful weather. I told James we were coming up with the fifth wheel and I would bring my grill. This was a pirates and princesses party. The men went around telling pirate jokes while the little girls danced around and tiaras and frilly dresses. James told me that most people there would be vegetarians but all I know is I cooked bacon for a solid hour and a half and never had any left. Zia came over and picked up a piece of bacon and asked her mother if she could have some. Michelle said very gently now honey that’s a part of a pig. Zia said OK and went chow chow chow, and ate it down A little spirit with an independent mind We sure love and miss her.

The first time I met you sweet LittleZaia I What was the day after you were born. Grandpa Malcolm and I had to get up and see our new baby and I held you in my arms. I started to cry because then was the day that I became a full-fledged Loomis grandma. One of my favorite stories about you is when you were about between two and three years old your parents let me take you on a camping trip with grandpa and I to Palisades. Grandpa had to work during the day at the clinic so it was just you and me to play all day in the water, throwing rocks picking up leaves And having a wonderful day sometime in the afternoon I said to Zaia let’s go back to the trailer and read a story and have a little rest. One of us dozed off and had a nap and it wasn’t you. You chomped down on my cheek and bit me a good one. I woke up with a scream, and you laughed and laughed and laughed and said to me no sleep grandma. It has been a fun and adventurous experience to watch you grow up to be a beautiful girl. We will love and miss you.! All my love, grandma Andrea

"Uncle Couley to Zaia, do you copy" I am your Godfather, or one of them. Kasha Rigby was your Godmother, or one of them. (Rest in Peace) I know that you connected with many of us on that spirit level. You were always so engaged with your fellow humans young, elder, different., easy or hard. White, black, or grey you embraced all with loving kidness. We started "Coyote Camp" at the Jenkstar before you even knew you were on the board. Then each year as per tradition we would rally all "coyote kids" to gather on sunrise hill, for sunset of the first night. Each of us carrying something to either play or roll down the hill, we collect all the sound makers and improv instruments and drums and whistles, bowling balls. aarrroooooooooo!! we always started with a coyote howl into the sunset but do not carry on long, we have to get these kiddos to bed by dark, the parents say. The African woven basket spills over full of fun and the Jenky melodies and chaos proceed. Everyone knew about Coyote Camp. For hours you would rally call and spiral through the whole ranch, sometimes with a megaphone i would provide, pulling the Jenk Train full of coyote kids (or normally would delegate the work part out to another, usually a boy so all the girls could ride). You are a fellow delegater and always partook in proper shenanegains. And, always made sure to see it out properly to make sure no one was getting too hurt and kiddos were playing fair. You are a leader. You always noticed the big stuff going on, stars in the sky and the vastness of the universe. I felt you return to that place. As our spirit is connected, i am comforted in knowing that this is not the end of our work together. Its only the beginning. I will see you on sunrise hill heaven for star gazing and our coyote howwwllll.. arrrooooooo

One of my favorite memories with gray was when we used to go on night walks at the OchO. Most of the time it wasn’t just us sometimes it would be with Irie, Liam, Bronson. We would always just walk the street and scare eachother and just talk about whatever was on our minds. We would just stare at the mountain on the west side of the OchO and try and see what shapes the shadow would cast. We would listen to the water falls from the east and talk about random things. Sometimes James ,my dad and Matt would try to come scare us by sitting on the side of the road and overall it was just nice to listen to nature and take it all in after a long day.

I met Zaia about 7 years ago, through my friend & mentor James (her dad). Many great memories come to mind over those years: whether camping, hanging out at the OchO, or simply spending time at James' house, Zaia always made me laugh & smile - even when she was arguing with Ziggy (sometimes ESPECIALLY when she was arguing with Ziggy, which could be hilarious). A time that sticks out, because I was recently reminded of it by a memory highlight reel on my phone from 2020, was on a Friendsgiving trip to the San Rafael Swell, with James, Kari, Sean, Ziggy, Zaia and my dog Rio. Rio is a very affectionate dog, and her interactions with those two siblings have always brought me such joy. That weekend was bitterly cold in the slot canyon we camped in, and poor Rio was struggling, at times, to keep warm. A video in that highlight reel was a little panorama around our campsite as James & Kari checked on our Dutch oven, campfire Friendsgiving dinner. Across from the fire, Zaia watches on intently, trying to get a glimpse into the pots, as my cold little Rio Taki takes refuge in her lap. It's such a small, simple, wholesome moment from the trip, but it genuinely brings tears to my eyes even thinking of it. The care Zaia (and Ziggy) showed Rio over that trip, to help her stay warm and cared-for really demonstrates a strength of character. It might be cliche, but it really rings true: you're gone too soon. You are, and will be forever, sorely missed by all of us. Sincerely, Joel

Where do we start. When we met Zaia, she was the mother of the kids. So confident in rallying the kids at kids camp. The confidence was unmatched although I was a scared and nervous new Mom. The Loomis’s assured me she knew what she was doing… she totally did. Parented the crap out of my kids and I was so nervous. As Zaia transitioned into her chosen self, we watched them grow. Grey always checked in with all the kids. Every camp. Every gathering. They made us all feel safe and safe with our around in festival settings. Fast forward to when my babies weren’t babies anymore. Grey came over to get hair done with her mom sometimes. When Miche and Grey would switch chairs, Grey would immediately run with my children. In my tiny home. “Let’s do Art, what do you want to do?”. Although I love listening to people care about what my kids want to do. Grey held a magic that I can’t explain. More recently, we camped at the Ocho and my daughter Èva again latched onto Grey. They spent the whole weekend together. They did art while the rest of us took tours and built things. Éva then changed her art style completely based on what Grey shared with her. I have shared a photo of one of Éva’s drawings. This was two years ago when we visited the Ocho. She still draws eyeliner like Greys on every single one of her characters. Thank you for your amazing energy, spirit, love for kids and makeup/fashion. You will forever live in our hearts Grey.

Eric and I had the pleasure of spending a long weekend on the Payette River with James, Kari, Zaia and Ziggy about four years ago. It was a magical time during the pandemic—when camping, running rivers and hot springing were normal things we could still do outside at 6 feet apart. I will remember watching the kids practice throwing the throw rope into the water to each other, and taking turns jumping off a bridge into the river. I will remember James’s gentle river tips and enthusiastic encouragement and Kari’s loving dedication to the daily meals and snacks. Grey and I shared a birthday as well as the name Karen. I will think of and celebrate them every year on my birthday. I’m so deeply sorry for their family’s loss. I will also remember Grey at my annual Day of the Dead celebration every November 2nd.

Grey, The day you were born I Baked an “octopus” Cake (per your Mom Michelle’s request) to celebrate your birthday. I started the Cake when your Mom went into labor with you & every hour I would add another ingredient with LOVE, until your Birth at 1 am 7/21/2008. Your life began, lived, & ended in the same house surrounded by love of your Mother, Father, Grandparents Brother, & family & Friends. When I look to the sky I know you are the ONE Grey who looks at me, I miss you more than you will ever know - You are my sunshine☀️☀️& Shining Star⭐️🌟⭐️🌈🌈🌈 ♥️♥️♥️Love Grandma Jean ♥️♥️♥️

Grey and I grew up together from birth. we've been friends. And they are all I've ever known. We had so many fun times, and they were always the life of the party. We used to make up stories about mermaids and fairy's when we were little, and as we got older, our bond only strangthend. We laughed until our voices were gone and sang the songs we loved. They were my other half and the person who pushed me to try new things and figure out who I am. Camping, going to fairs, and going rafting, we were inseparable. I love and admire their strangth, resilience, the quick whited remarks, and their amazing humor. We would tell stories about how our lives and go on late night walks with Jaden and just talk, we created some of my most fond memories at the ocho and on the trips we went on together. I will forever miss the beautiful soul I grew up with and remember the amazing times we've had together.through thick and thin, we always came back together. I love and miss you so much<3

I met you the day you were born and hugged you and told you I loved you a few days before your passing. We had a really good last day together. You were so excited to see me. You've been calling me Aunt Leah your whole life. I knew you were hurting but you were in a good mood. You could always be yourself around me. I loved that about you. I once asked you too never be "too cool" for Aunt Leah, even when you were a teenager. You said, "That would never happen." We went to our favorite coffee shop, Alchemy. You talked about your goals to finish school, online and you were getting closer to getting your drivers license. Taking the bus to work took a lot of extra time. We discussed the election. I wanted to know how it was affecting you. "I'm more concerned about my friends so I've gotten together a group of us to check in on each other. We are all accounted for, so that makes me feel better." While on the subject we read your Dads post about the election. Grey loved it! They asked me to make sure he knew they read it. "My Dad is such a good writer, and I love his point of view." Grey laid their head on my shoulder for a few seconds. There was a hint of sadness in their eyes. Grey loved to curl up to like a cat and tell me how beautiful I am. Grey popped their head back up and excitedly told me about the therapy horses her girlfriend Cheshyre and Mom have. "Have you ever heard of Equine Therapy? I love riding the horses, and spending time them. Its the best type of therapy for me, and I get to be outside. They are such magical creatures. Hey you have a freckle in your right eye. So does my girlfriend!" I told Grey it would be awesome to meet their girlfriend and the therapy horses. I really wish I could remember all the friends they had mentioned that day, and how supportive they have been for Grey. After coffee we went over to Iconoclad Consignment to pick up a sweater. I found a cozy pink sweater. Grey approved of it. It will always remind me of Grey. On our way back home we drove by Ziggy's school. "Slow down Leah, I want to see if Ziggy is kicking his soccer ball at recess. I love that Ziggy has found something to be passionate about. I hope he keeps playing. I just love my brother so much! We have so much fun together. We love getting on the bus and going on adventures. We both love going to the thrift stores on our bus adventures. Plus it gets Ziggy comfortable riding the bus." Grey talked about how much candy they got while tricker treating with Ziggy. They even made it to the same Halloween block party I was at. We didn't see each other though. Before I dropped Grey they said, "I'm so proud of my Mom. She's doing so much better. She's taking better care of herself. I hope she keeps it up. I hope she does a lot of snowboarding this winter. I'm glad she's getting in to see you for massages. She deserves her self care. I would feel better if she did more things she loves to do." Before I dropped off Grey I told them I loved them. "I will pick you up next week for another coffee date. I love our one on one time together. "It's a deal Leah. I love you".

In 2019 I met Zaia at the Green Phoenix Farm We were at the Bee Festival and I remember walking around and trying out Bee glasses and watching the jumping spiders Zaia made me laugh the whole time that day by either making funny faces or by challenging her dad Luv you Zaia 💚💜

Zaia/ Grey was always kind to me. I was always impressed by their perspective of the world. I remember them showing me their snake one of the first times i met them. They were so proud to show me and I was too afraid to touch it, but they didn't judge me for that. I admired their bravery and passion. I learned a lot about confidence and the vibrance that comes from playing by your own rules from them. I will miss them and am grateful to have known them in the time that I did.

The first time I met Grey, over a decade ago, they were tearing around the JenkStar Ranch with a small band of kids trailing behind them like ducklings. It was obvious that Grey was the leader—not by vote, but by sheer force of will. They carried themselves with an authority that wasn’t asked for but simply assumed, and somehow, it worked. Their natural assertiveness made it impossible not to respect them, even as a kid. As I watched, Grey spotted one of the younger girls clutching a toy like it was her greatest treasure. They strode up, confident and direct, and said, “Here, give me that.” The little girl hesitated, holding the toy a little tighter. “It’s mine,” she said, her voice wavering. Without missing a beat, Grey responded firmly, “You need to share,” and gently but decisively took the toy from her hands. The girl looked stunned, her lip trembling as she processed what had just happened. A few tears welled up, but to my surprise, she didn’t protest further. Instead, she wiped her face, fell back in line with the others, and kept following Grey. It wasn’t long before she was laughing and playing again as if the interaction had never happened. That moment stayed with me. Grey wasn’t the kind of leader who coddled or negotiated—they were the kind who made decisions and expected others to follow, and somehow, they always did. It wasn’t about being gentle or diplomatic; it was about being assured, decisive, and a little larger than life. Even at that young age, Grey had that rare magnetism that made people trust them and want to be part of whatever they were doing. They were a force—assertive, bold, and unapologetically themselves—and that’s exactly what made them so unforgettable.

I remember on year on or near Z's birthday we were having hoop jam at the park. I remember walking over and Z had been upset by another kid on the playground, but the minute I let them know that I had made a hula hoop just for them, their frown quickly disappeared and was replaced by the cutest smile. I hope you're hooping with the stars Z. ♥️

So many memories to choose from of the coolest Zaia Grey. I’ll keep this story as “Zaia and Her” as this was before they wanted to be considered “they, them, Grey.” One story I love so much- We had plans to go to Building Man with a group and Zaia was going to come as the ringleader for the little kids we were bringing. Michelle ended up not being able to go but Zaia still wanted to so we said “hell yes!” We’ll get her meals and “watch” her during the day and she can stay with the littles at night. Awesome trade. Of course, we didn’t need to feed her much as all the camp mamas and papas knew her well. She was by far the best fed in the bunch. She led the way for a gaggle of festival children singing and playing and showing all the littles the way around the desert. She was our greatest asset and entertainer as a campmate . When night fell one evening, I started to get worried as I knew she was out with a young fellow for a few hours and my imagination of course as a mama bear went wild. I waited anxiously as I saw the sun disappear and here she comes, bounding down the hill barefoot with dust all round, brushing past me to the tent. I see the young fellow not far behind. With my hand on my hips I ask, “Hey, whatcha been doing with that boy?! We haven’t seen you for hours!” She turns and looks at me in the eye and says “Lianna, I'm a lesbian”……… It was the perfect response that made me shrug my shoulders and say, “ok cool, well are you ready to go to bed cause we’re ready to go dance.” “Yep” she answers without skipping a beat. After getting everyone all tucked in, we went out to dance and after an hour or so another camp mama told us that she heard some crying from our tent so we rushed back to check in on the crew. Upon arriving it was a peaceful, quiet camp so we just peaked our heads into the tent. Zaia was all curled up with all the littles and we got a moment to sit and watch them all sleeping in a little Building Man cuddle puddle of cuties, all zonked and being comforted by their ring master. She showed up so many times that trip, and many others, as a natural nurturer. We will miss them so much and try to find comfort in our love and gratitude to be in this realm with them and every precious moment we had.

So many memories to choose from of the coolest Zaia Grey. I’ll keep this story as “Zaia and Her” as this was before they wanted to be considered “they, them, Grey.” One story I love so much- We had plans to go to Building Man with a group and Zaia was going to come as the ringleader for the little kids we were bringing. Michelle ended up not being able to go but Zaia still wanted to so we said “hell yes!” We’ll get her meals and “watch” her during the day and she can stay with the littles at night. Awesome trade. Of course, we didn’t need to feed her much as all the camp mamas and papas knew her well. She was by far the best fed in the bunch. She led the way for a gaggle of festival children singing and playing and showing all the littles the way around the desert. She was our greatest asset and entertainer as a campmate . When night fell one evening, I started to get worried as I knew she was out with a young fellow for a few hours and my imagination of course as a mama bear went wild. I waited anxiously as I saw the sun disappear and here she comes, bounding down the hill barefoot with dust all round, brushing past me to the tent. I see the young fellow not far behind. With my hand on my hips I ask, “Hey, whatcha been doing with that boy?! We haven’t seen you for hours!” She turns and looks at me in the eye and says “Lianna, I'm a lesbian”……… It was a brilliant response that made me shrug my shoulders and say, “ok cool, well are you ready to go to bed cause we’re ready to go dance.” “Yep” she answers without skipping a beat. After getting everyone all tucked in, we went out to dance and after an hour or so another camp mama told us that she heard some crying from our tent so we rushed back to check in on the crew. Upon arriving it was a peaceful, quiet camp so we just peaked our heads into the tent. Zaia was all curled up with all the littles and we got a moment to sit and watch them all sleeping in a little Building Man cuddle puddle of cuties, all zonked and being comforted by their ring master. She showed up so many times that trip, and many others, as a natural nurturer. We will miss them so much and try to find comfort in our love and gratitude to be in this realm with them and every precious moment we had.

I rented Jame’s home with Leah for a while around 2013. James and Michelle had their farm up in Idaho and would come into town a couple times a month for the weekend and crash in the living room with Zaia and Ziggy. I use they’re original name because that’s what I new them as at the time. Zaia was about 5 years old and Ziggy just a baby. This family was a force to be reckoned with and Zaia was like the unofficial ringleader, although James may argue to that….lol. It was a lot to deal with but I quickly grew to greatly love all the Loomies and their visits. Grey was so cute and developed a bit of a crush on me. They would frequently gift me with a little sticky note with a heart on it or a sweet message, or some little colorful little princess/Cinderella-ish cutout or something of the like, and either hand it to me or sneak it into my room for me to find. It was very endearing and I felt so honored that this super bright loving spirit appreciated me so much. A couple of years later when I was no longer living there, I went through an incredibly amazing but extremely difficult spiritual awakening/process. Nobody knew what to do with me or for me as much of the initial process was not pretty. Michelle, true to great form had offered for me to stay out back in Jame’s old sound studio for a few weeks. The kids, especially Grey were incredibly grounding for me, more so than anyone else and Michelle entrusted me to take them out on outings, like to church and ecstatic dance when it first began. We would just march and dance around in a line like ducks on our own hit parade, and it was easy and effortless. Grey was totally A Ok with what I was going through and would often swirl up to me and gently grab my arm, hold my hand or give me a tap with her invisible magic wand, or a look giving me an unspoken recognition that everything is ok and to just keep going through it and all will be well. Grey was a guardian angel to me at that time, grounding me enough to make it through, ensuring me with love and confidence that what I was going through was a beautiful, natural and magical experience, and to just trust it. I'll never forget how much they were for me at that very difficult time in my life and hold those memories forever in my heart. Grey is a truly beautiful, bright and magical spirit and I am so grateful for all they were to me and still are in fond memory.

I remember your sweet cherub face, blonde pixie hair and pink dress. In the desert and in the forest. On the river. I loved watching you grow. I loved seeing my daughter with you. I loved witnessing the special bond you have with your Brother, Mom, Dad and Friends. I love your style with clothes makeup as you became who you are, Grey. I loved your pink hair. I loved your presence. I looked forward to so many more moments with you around the fire and around the table. And on the playground in nature. I’ll meet you there. I’ll hold your hand and we can skip and climb and play together. I miss you. I love you 💖

Grey was a wonderful friend to have around, they were a very caring person. Their mom welcomed me into her class one day when i was having a hard time and frequently checked on me. I loved grey more than just a friend but as a fellow soul too. may they rest in peace

I loved grey so much whenever when we would be at school at lunch grey would bring me to her mom to grab her lunch and every time we went to go see her mom she would say “hey mom I brought your favorite” anytime she said that I would feel really cared for and warm she was the best person I could ever meet even her mom said that we’d bee best friends.

im sorry this world couldn’t keep you safe. i love you im going to miss you a lot your presence was healing to me and im so happy to have met you and lucky to have known you im sorry to everyone who is impacted by the loss of this beautiful person i love you grey💞

In our sophomore year, I was struggling a little bit and me and Grey had language Arts together and she always made me smile even when my day wasn't always great. I remember I was having one specifically hard day and she gave me some of her sourpatch kids (my personal favorite) and she told me things were going to be alright. So much love to Grey's families and I miss her so much. She was such a kind and beautiful soul.

Grey always had a way of lighting up the room always so friendly and welcoming forever she will be remembered

Holding your family in my heart, please reach out if Atlas and I can help with anything.

Michelle and family, We’re so sorry for your loss! Our heart goes out to you and your family! Our daughter Natalie was a friend of Grey’s and spoke of the kindness that Grey showed her. We hope you and your family are able to find comfort and peace as your family goes through this challenging time.

We loved hanging with our little Loomis peeps when their parents had a night out. Grey would ask me to assure their parents they were just fine here and not to worry about picking them up until morning. The word that comes to mind when I think of Grey is joy.

Free Spirit up north at Badger Ranch White Lake Wisconsin. One with nature & naked as Bird, potty training. A talented singer at grandpa Dave's funeral, organizing and rehearsing a song with Wisconsin cousins. Friendly and brave as a young child engaging with a band at the German beer garden. These memories will forever be held close in my heart. Happy Go Lucky Free Spirited little Z. Loved by all. Rest in Gods loving arms. Love Deb Cuda & families.

I never had the opportunity to actually meet Zaia but through her Grandma Jean I learned about this precious soul. Sending our deepest sympathy from across the ocean. May Zaia rest in peace

I first met Grey on tiktok, she followed me then i followed her back. We get to talking and instantly click, talking every single day. Playing games, talking about gossip about eachothers lives, and sharing experiences. I walked and held greys hand throughout alot of hardships, as she did for me. Grey was my internet best friend, we would face time all the time. From showing me squirrel to Ziggy bothering her, she made me laugh til my stomach hurt. Grey was the one who taught me, to stand up for myself and speak my emotions and i will cherish that forever. I miss you so much, I love you grey 🫶