Parents’ tribute to ‘murdered’ mum of six after £18,000 raised to help her children

The parents of a mum-of-six killed last week have urged people to ‘hold your loved ones close because life can change in a heartbeat’.

Lisa Smith, 33, suffered what police described as ‘very serious head injuries’ at an address in the Almondbury area of Huddersfield shortly after midnight on Friday December 19.

She was rushed to hospital but died on Sunday evening. Gareth Brook, 34, was previously charged with wounding with intent over the incident, which is now being treated as a suspected murder.

He will next appear at Leeds Crown Court on January 16. Police have said the proceedings ‘will reflect the outcome of the forensic post mortem’.

Since Lisa’s death, well-wishers have rallied to support the family she left behind.

Nearly £18,000 has been donated to an online crowdfunding page, while a special fundraising day was also held at Almondbury Cricket Club yesterday.

Writing on the GoFundMe page, Lisa’s mum and dad said: ‘We want to thank every single one of you from the bottom of our hearts.

‘The love, kindness, and generosity you’ve shown our family during the darkest time of our lives has meant more than words can ever say.

‘Knowing how many people cared for our Lisa, and how many are standing beside her children, brings us strength each day.

‘As Christmas approaches, we want to remind everyone to hold your loved ones close.

‘Make the memories. Say the things you want to say. Appreciate every moment, because life can change in a heartbeat.

‘We hope you all have a peaceful, loving Christmas surrounded by the people who matter most.

‘Thank you again for everything you’ve done for our family — we will never forget it. With all our love, Lisa’s Mum & Dad.’

In a separate statement released by the police, they shared one of their favourite photos of Lisa and revealed her organs had been donated to help give hope to other families.

‘She did what she does best by helping other families have a special Christmas until she fell fast asleep,’ it said.

‘From the bottom of all our hearts we cannot express how truly grateful we really are for everyone in the community pulling together and making her six beautiful babies Christmas and lives special.

‘The kindness and love that everyone has shown us has just explained how very loved she really was and still is.’

Enquiries into the incident are ongoing.

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