Forever in their hearts. Christina Grimmie’s family released a statement to Us Weekly one month after the singer's tragic death. The 22-year-old, who was best known for placing third during season 6 of The Voice in 2014, was shot and killed by a deranged fan during a meet-and-greet in Orlando Friday, June 10.
"The outpouring of love and generosity that has been displayed to our family throughout these last few weeks has far exceeded anything we could have ever imagined,” the statement from dad Bud, mom Tina and brother Marcus Grimmie read. “As we have always known, Christina's life was so very special, not only to us, but to everyone she touched with her joyful heart, beautiful voice, and love for life and the Lord. Words cannot express what the many memorials, donations and tributes shared by Christina's fans and those in the media and entertainment industry mean to us. She will live on in our hearts forever. We will take our time in determining the best ways to honor Christina moving forward. Thank you."
The singer’s rep adds that the family will be closing her GoFundMe account on July 10. The family has received nearly $200,000. According to the GoFundMe page, the money will be used to assist the family in their time of need.
Grimmie was laid to rest in her hometown of Medford, New Jersey, on Friday, June 17. The 27-year-old gunman who shot and killed her, Kevin Loibl, was reportedly infatuated with Grimmie and even underwent hair transplants and Lasik eye surgery in an attempt to woo her. Marcus attempted to save his sister by tackling Loibl, who then shot and killed himself.
"Christina was awesome," her brother told attendees during a candlelight vigil for his sister June 13. "She loved this town, she loved this state, she loved singing, she loved the Lord and she loved me. She was my baby sister."
As previously reported, Voice mentor Adam Levine paid for Grimmie’s funeral expenses. Numerous other artists, including Selena Gomez, whose stepfather managed Grimmie, and Meghan Trainor, have also paid tribute to the singer.
