When you lose a loved one, it is always difficult to cope with the hole their absence leaves in your life. That's especially true for those who never got to spend much time at all with that special person, as the sweet girl in the photos below knows all too well.
At just 8 months old, Taliya Thomas said goodbye to her father, Franklin County Deputy Sheriff Cruz Thomas, after a violent car accident took his life. Despite being so young, though, Taliya hasn't let her brave dad's memory fade away thanks to his sister and parents constantly reminding the tot of how much he loved her.
She remains especially close to her aunt Desiree and the family honors the fallen hero each year on little Taliya's birthday with a bittersweet photoshoot. Dressing up in his hat and uniform shirt, and showing off the badge she keeps by her side at all times, her daddy's love continues to shine through her smile.
Photo credit: Facebook/Cruz Thomas
During her most recent session with Mary Lee Photography, Taliya dropped to her knees while dwarfed in her father's old shirt to pray for those who have been lost in the line of duty.
At just 3 years old, she's clearly gained a level of maturity and wisdom from the tragedy rather than wallow in sadness.
Mary Lee also explains a moment during their session where a persistent yellow butterfly followed the youngster all around the farm they were shooting at.
The toddler didn't mind, though, saying, "That’s my daddy. He’s sending me butterfly kisses from heaven."
Desiree and her parents surround Taliya with so many precious memories of Cruz that her heart is always full and she can feel him watching over her every day.
They began honoring Cruz on her first birthday, shown above in her first photo session with Mary Lee decked out in her dad's memory.
The family also hosts an annual fundraiser known as the Cruz Thomas Memorial Ride. All proceeds of which go to The Cruz Thomas Scholarship and Shriners Hospitals for Children in Atlanta, GA.
At the end of each session, Taliya releases several balloons up into the air so that her dad can celebrate with her in heaven.
Take a look below to hear more about the tot's heartwarming tradition.
And be sure to SHARE her beautiful spirit with your friends and family!
