River Dawson Trong's Obituary
A Celebration of Life Service for River Dawson Trong, age 8, of Goodwater, Alabama, will be Monday, April 22, 2024 at 4:00 pm at First Baptist Church, Alexander City. Rev. Matthew Reams and Rev. Sheldon Hutcherson will officiate. The family will receive friends at the conclusion of the service.
River Dawson Trong, known affectionately as River, passed away on April 18, 2024, at the tender age of eight, in Birmingham, Alabama. Born on January 19, 2016, in Alexander City, Alabama, River was a beacon of joy and laughter, whose presence was a gift to all who knew him.
River was the adored son of Paul Michael Trong II, and the cherished grandson of Amanda Joyce and Steve Kimsey, Jonathan Douglas and Carrie Peters, and Paul Michael and Jodi Trong I. He was the treasured great-grandson of Virginia Diane Rainwater and Dennis Lynn and Janie Peters. His loving aunts, Kaitlin Paige Caldwell (James) and Holly Gabrielle Overton (Kenneth), along with a host of other family members, will forever hold River's memory in their hearts. He was preceded in death by his loving mother, Amber Nicole Trong, and his dear brothers, Aaron Ridge Trong and Raiden Paul Trong, as well as his great-grandfather, Johnnie Paul Rainwater.
River's brief life was marked by his uncanny ability to light up any room. He never sought the spotlight; rather, it found him, drawn by his natural charm and infectious laughter. His quick wit and humorous antics earned him the title of class clown, and his joyful spirit made him the life of any gathering.
An engineer in the making, River had an insatiable curiosity for how things worked. His hands were rarely still, as he was often found building intricate Lego structures or fixing broken gadgets around the house. His intelligence and problem-solving skills were evident to all who watched him play and learn.
Beyond his clever mind, River had a rhythm in his soul. He loved to dance, moving with a grace and confidence that belied his young age. His charisma was undeniable, and he had a special way with people, especially the little girls who were utterly charmed by his playful demeanor.
More than just a source of laughter and fun, River was the anchor of his family. He had an innate ability to bring people together and keep them united, a loving adhesive that bonded his family through the best and worst of times.
River's adventurous spirit was matched only by his loving nature. He embraced life with open arms, always ready for a new adventure, and his warmth and affection were felt by everyone he encountered.
The words funny, adventurous, and loving are but a small testament to the extraordinary boy that was River Dawson Trong. His eight years on this earth were far too short, yet the depth of his impact is immeasurable. River's legacy will live on in the countless memories he created and in the indelible mark he left on the hearts of those who loved him.
As we bid farewell to River, we take solace in knowing that his light will continue to shine brightly in the lives of his family and friends. He was a remarkable child, whose spirit will forever be woven into the fabric of the memories he leaves behind.
River's life was a precious gift, and though he is no longer with us in body, his spirit endures. We honor his memory by cherishing the moments we shared with him and by carrying forward the love and joy he so freely gave. River Dawson Trong, you were, and always will be, deeply loved.
Radney Funeral Home is honored to serve the Trong family.
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