A Young Life, Lost, But Lived To The Full

The community gathered this week to mourn the tragic passing of 22-year-old Isabella Vickery, a much-loved young local who will be remembered for her love of life, cheeky personality and kindness.

Izzy’s funeral was held at the VMR in Cannonvale on Monday, with more than 100 people in attendance. In honour of her family’s wishes, many wore purple, a fitting tribute to a vibrant life gone too soon.

Isabella was described as “radiant light, laughter, joy, childlike at times, smart, super smart, tender, silly, kind, happy, a little bit naughty, and above all, love. She had the most beautiful heart”.

Until the age of 12, Izzy was raised by her father Tim, with the unwavering support of her grandfather Roger. Her grandmother was also part of her early years, though sadly passed away when Izzy was still a toddler. She attended both St Catherine’s and Proserpine State High School.

In her early teenage years, Tim met Sarah, and together they built a close and loving family. Sarah stepped into Izzy’s life, becoming a friend and a confidant to Izzy but even more importantly the mother that Izzy never had. A beautiful and pure relationship developed.

Through this, Izzy also gained extended family, with grandparents Jill and Brian offering even more love, support and encouragement.

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Not long after, her younger sister Olivia was born. Their connection was immediate and unbreakable, best friends who shared a bond that will never be broken.

After finishing school, Izzy began studying criminology at Griffith University before transitioning to behavioural science at QUT, living in Brisbane for three years.

This new degree was more in line with what Izzy was passionate about. She wanted to make a difference. She wanted to help those living with disabilities, sickness and the elderly, to give them dignity, show them kindness, compassion, care and companionship.

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That was who she was at her core, someone who gave love so freely.

In recent weeks, family and close friends have been navigating immense grief, while also finding comfort in sharing memories and celebrating the joy Izzy brought into their lives.

They smiled recalling her love of comfort, especially her fondness for PJs, once spending a large portion of her savings on six pairs from Peter Alexander pyjamas. She also loved karaoke, embracing the stage with confidence, living in the moment and simply having fun.

Izzy had returned to the Whitsundays at Christmas and decided to stay. During this time, she met someone special who made her smile and gave her excitement for what lay ahead.

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“She was full of life, excited, hopeful, and so in love with the future,” shared the family.

“And that is what makes this so hard.

“But even though her time with us was far too short, the impact she has left is immeasurable.

“She will forever be in our hearts, in our memories, in our stories and in the quiet moments where we feel her presence.”

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The family has asked that anyone wishing to honour Izzy’s memory consider making a donation to the Epilepsy Foundation.   

They also extend their heartfelt thanks to the community for the outpouring of love, support, and kindness during this incredibly difficult time. The Vickery family have been truly overwhelmed by the generosity and compassion shown to them.

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Scan here to donate to Epilepsy Foundation:

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