Heartbreaking Montana massacre obits reveal profound emptiness after 8 killed: Their lives mattered

Heartbreaking obituaries have been left for the victims of last month’s mass shooting in Montana that left eight members of the same family dead.The victims of the Aug.23 shooting near Billings have been named as: “In her final moments, Charlotte’s bravery was evident as she made a call that likely saved the lives of first responders, if not her family,” reads the obituary for the youngest victim, describing her harrowing 911 call.“Charlotte’s genuine curiosity about the world was unlimited and she was unapologetically herself.

She asked questions thoughtfully and fearlessly and stood firm in her beliefs while also remaining selfless and incredibly sensitive to the needs of those around her,” it continued.“Her passing leaves a profound emptiness.”Charlotte’s brother Landon was described as “thoughtful, affectionate, sarcastic, witty, and intelligent,” in his obituary.“He was eagerly looking forward to starting his sophomore year of high school and was particularly excited about obtaining his driver’s license and passport this month,” it continued, adding that his life was “heartbreakingly cut short as he heroically protected his little sister.”Megan was “a wonderful mom who found the perfect balance between being fun, loving and a guiding presence for her children,” her obituary read.“Owen and Chloe were the center of her world, and she loved them with everything she had,” it continued.“Their lives mattered, their love mattered, and the space they leave behind will never be filled.”Dana and Barbara’s deaths were mourned by those who knew them at Laramie High School, where the pair had just attended their 55th reunion in July. “Thank you Billings for honoring our Laramie H.S.Class of 1971 friends Dana & Barb (Aker) Smith and their family,” read a post on a local Laramie Facebook group.“Many of us were honoring them with you from afar.

Laramie is experiencing the same disbelief and grief as Billings.B...