Anna Yan Ji Arabia, 16
NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — Anna Yan Ji Arabia, 16, of Eagle Street, died Thursday, Feb. 14, 2013. Family said she faced her rare brain tumor, gliomatosis cerebri, with amazing strength and never let it touch her spirit.
Born April 9, 1996, in Huazhou, China, she was joyfully welcomed into her family on Jan. 20, 1997, and became the daughter of Joseph and Kathleen Prince Arabia of North Adams. She had excelled in her studies at Drury High School and the former Conte Middle School, and enjoyed participating in the Drury band and on the Drama Team. She received her high school diploma in December at a special ceremony in her home.
Miss Arabia also enjoyed time spent with family and friends, New York City, shopping, music, and her iPhone. She was a communicant of St. Elizabeth of Hungary Parish and received her Confirmation last May.
Besides her loving parents, she leaves her grandfathers Anthony Arabia of North Adams and John Prince of Brighton; her godmother, Mary Costa of Peabody; her godfather, Paul Arabia of North Adams, many aunts, uncles and cousins who were so special to her, and her dog, Ayla.
She was predeceased her grandmothers Anna Arabia, Mary Prince and Dorothy Arabia.
Her family greatly appreciated the support, care and love of everyone who helped her through this journey. Anna, whom they said became an became an angel full of faith, love and kindness, developed special relationships along the way with so many people from our wonderful community, and her caring medical team.
FUNERAL NOTICE — A joyful celebration of the life of Anna Arabia will take place at Flynn & Dagnoli-Montana Home for Funerals, West Chapels, 521 West Main St., North Adams, on Monday, Feb. 18, from 4 to 7. A Liturgy of Christian Burial will be held Tuesday, Feb. 19, at 11 from St Elizabeth of Hungary Church.
If desired, donations in memory of Anna can be made through the funeral home for one of two funds being established by the family. The Anna Arabia Drury High School Scholarship Fund, or the AYJ Fund to continue research of brain tumors and support other children living with cancer.