A close-knit community in the Vestal and Johnson City area is grieving the sudden death of Elizabeth “Lizzy” Blackman, a young girl remembered for her bright smile and warm spirit.
According to a GoFundMe campaign organized on her family’s behalf, Lizzy passed away on June 26 following a UTV accident.
The news has spread quickly across local social media, with tributes pouring in from her dance studio, Head Over Heels in Vestal, as well as members of the broader dance and tumbling community who knew her through competitions and team events.
Many described her as a child who lit up every room she entered and made people feel special simply by being around her.
Lizzy was active in both dance and softball, and those who coached or trained alongside her say she brought the same energy and joy to both activities.
She is remembered as a beloved daughter, granddaughter, sister, and friend, and her loss has left a deep void among classmates, teammates, coaches, and family friends throughout the region.
Community Rallies to Support the Blackman Family
In the wake of the tragedy, Amanda Mauro set up a GoFundMe titled “Support for Lizzy’s Family After Tragic Loss” to help Lizzy’s mother, Rebecca Blackman, and the rest of the family cover funeral and burial costs.
As of this week, the fundraiser has collected more than 82,000 dollars toward its 100,000-dollar goal, with over 700 separate donations from people moved by Lizzy’s story.
The fundraiser description notes that no family should have to bury a child, and asks supporters to consider donating or simply sharing the campaign so it reaches more people who may want to help.
Organizers say contributions will go directly toward easing the financial burden on the family so they can focus on grieving and honoring Lizzy’s memory rather than worrying about expenses.
Beyond the GoFundMe, local dance organizations have stepped in with additional ways for the community to give back, including a separate gift card collection drive meant to provide more direct, practical support to the Blackman household in the weeks ahead.
Posts from Head Over Heels Vestal described Lizzy as “Lizzy” to those close to her and extended condolences to her mother, Becky, along with Matt and Zach, and the rest of her family, friends, and everyone who knew and loved her.
The studio said she will always remain part of their extended dance family.
Friends and loved ones have also been invited to contribute to a digital memorial tribute, where they can upload photos and memories of Lizzy to be compiled into a video tribute for the family.
Organizers describe her as a little all-star who was taken far too soon, saying her presence and personality left a lasting impression on everyone who crossed her path.
As the investigation into the circumstances of the accident continues, the outpouring of grief and generosity from neighbors, teammates, and strangers alike reflects how deeply Lizzy touched the people around her.
Community members say the response so far, both in donations and in shared memories, is a testament to the kind of light she brought into the world in her short life.
