Nationwide — Quinteriyah Ashley, a 14-year-old African American girl from Dublin, Georgia, died after a long battle with leukemia. Her courage, strength, and love for learning left a lasting mark on everyone around her.

Her mother, Danelle Ashley, said the diagnosis came as a shock. “When we first found out she had cancer, it was something that no one would have thought,” she told 11Alive. “You see it, but you don’t really know what people actually go through until it’s actually you.”

Even while battling her illness, Quinteriyah never lost her spirit. She continued to dance, smile, and comfort her mother through the toughest moments. “I cried so much with her, not even shedding a tear,” Danelle said. Quinteriyah often reassured her, saying, “I’m gonna be OK, mama.”

Quinteriyah’s determination shone even during her weakest days. She missed much of sixth grade because of hospital stays but still wished to go back to school. When she finally returned, she was excited to learn and see her classmates again.

Her teacher, Tamika Brown, said those moments were special for everyone. “Being able to come for the couple of days that she did come to school, it was good to see her in the hallways,” Brown said. “I’m just glad she’s not suffering anymore and having to go through all the treatments in the hospital.”

Students and staff at Dublin Middle School continue to remember Quinteriyah as a bright, kind, and determined girl whose strength inspired the entire community.