11-year-old Georgia girl dies saving her dog from house fire; services set

The funeral for 11-year-old Katelynn Elizabeth Simonds, who tragically lost her life while trying to rescue her dog from a fire, is set for Friday at Conner-Westbury Funeral Home in Griffin, Georgia.

Katelynn passed away on April 6 at her home in a fire that broke out around 5:30 p.m. The incident occurred at the family's residence outside Griffin city limits, with investigators determining the fire to be accidental in nature, according to Spalding County firefighters.

Despite the danger, Katelynn chose to go upstairs to save her beloved dog "Little Man," but unfortunately, both perished in the blaze.

"Katelynn was the happiest little girl full of life, loved to laugh," shared her mother, Kristy Beecher Rollins. "I will remember my sweet baby by her big heart, her sweet smile and all the ways she has helped others."

Born in Riverdale, Georgia, Katelynn was a fifth grader at Cowan Road Elementary School and a cheerleader for the Spalding County Recreation Department. Described as having a generous spirit, a beautiful heart, and a love for dancing and crafting jewelry, Katelynn's favorite colors were pink and purple.

In response to this heartbreaking loss, a GoFundMe campaign was created by a friend of Katelynn's mother, Meredith Smith, to support the family in rebuilding their lives. The fundraiser aims to raise $25,000, and as of now, $9,320 has been contributed.

Survived by her mother, Kristy (Kevin) Rollins; brother, David Simonds; sisters, Amanda Bazzett (Bruce), Tonya Fox (Caine); grandmother, Sandra Florence; nephews and nieces, Alexander Bazzett, Bailey Bazzett, Ariel Fox, Corbin Fox; God-grandparents, Laurie and Chris Wells; as well as several aunts, uncles, and cousins, Katelynn leaves behind a legacy of love and bravery that will be cherished by those who knew her.