Lives were touched by one extremely memorable woman

Thousand Oaks lost one of its best citizens last week--Lia Vigna--a woman whose life did make a difference to every person she met. She'll be missed by all of us who had the tremendous pleasure of knowing her.

Lia sparkled; she shone with beauty and a kind, grounded, loving spirit that never faltered. Every day at school we all found warmth in her welcoming smile and lively conversation. She adored her children and her husband; she was a mom who actually sat on the floor with her kids to play and talked about how much fun it was.

Her generous enthusiasm radiated through every project she tackled and every person she worked with. Being with Lia felt like hanging out with a movie star, and suddenly you were one too.

In an age where poor behavior of celebrities makes the headlines hourly, I wish that the headlines could instead shout Lia's praise and remember her shining example that continues to make me a better person and mother.

Go safely, Lia; we miss you and will never forget the love you always took the time to share with us all. Julia Chambers Thousand Oaks