Mystery illness claims Paris, 10
A LONE candle threw out a warm glow over a collection of flowers, cards and balloons in the assembly hall at Sathya Sai Primary School this week.
It highlighted the work of students who poured their hearts out in words and through artwork for their "shining light", student Paris Farmer-Foster.
The 10-year-old girl with a "permanent smile" died suddenly on Monday morning following an undiagnosed illness that has left a family shocked and another little girl, Marlie, without her twin sister.
"Everyone loved her," said the school's principal Leelah Boughton.
"We are all in shock.
"She was a shining light, very popular and such a cute and zany character."
On the previous Friday, Paris refereed a netball game and helped a fellow student tie her shoelaces.
That's the kind of kid she was.
Her great grandmother, Jean Morris, said Paris became sick on Saturday.
"It's a mystery," Mrs Morris said.
"Paris was bouncing around my kitchen just two days before.
"She was happy and really full of beans.
"The family is rallying round, but it is such a blow."
Mrs Morris said the family was awaiting results from the coroner so they could find some closure over the tragedy.
Meanwhile, Paris' school mates have shown their love with a message board in the school hall decorated with a self -portrait by Paris, a photo of her, balloons, cards and flowers.
"We are absolutely stumped and shocked," Ms Broughton said.
"Teachers and myself have had to buckle-up and go into support-mode for students, but we are all very, very sad.
"Tuesday was very hard for everyone as we had to tell her friends and classmates.
"We all have such vivid visions of Paris with her beautiful smile.
"She will be greatly missed and remembered with so much love and warmth."
The Daily News contacted Tweed Police who have declined to comment.
A spokeswoman for the Northern NSW Local Health District said the department was unable to make any comment at this stage.
"We extend our condolences to the family and friends for their loss at this very sad time," she said.
