‘A loving sweet child’: Arab community rallies behind family of Violet Satterfield

ARAB, Ala. ( WHNT ) — The Arab community banded together Saturday, carrying out a “Ride for Vy” that saw nearly 100 bikers take a journey in honor of Violet Satterfield.

Violet spent days in the hospital after being pulled from her family pool before she died. The death of the 2-year-old devastated the city of Arab, where the community has rallied behind the family in support.

Troy Lambert, who led Saturday’s ride, says he’s known Violet’s family for decades.

“This is what riding is about. It’s a whole lot of respect, loyalty stuff like that and just getting with somebody that needs help and supporting them when they need it,” Lambert said. “I couldn’t imagine losing a child like that.”

Violet, known affectionately as “Vy,” is remembered as a little girl filled with positivity who graced the room with her infectious smile.

Family members like Debbie Burgett say there was nothing like being around their “Vy.”

“She was a sweet little child. I don’t know really how else to explain her. She just brightened up the room, she was sweet to everybody, she was a very loving sweet child,” Burgett told News 19.

The “Ride for Vy” included a silent auction that raised money to help cover medical expenses and to make up for the days her parents spent by her side in the hospital.

Family members like Melissa Long say it’s a testament to Arab coming together in support of their fellow community members.

“This has meant everything to do this for them, it wasn’t even a thought to do this for them they needed the support mentally and financially of course,” Long said. “We’re going to miss her so much.”

A strong sense of faith and fellowship is helping the family navigate through the unthinkable.

“We prayed hard for her to be ok, and then we prayed for peace for them and they’ve found it. God has provided peace for them and God is the only thing that’s got us through this,” Burgett explained.

The Satterfield family says they’re grateful for the love and support they’ve received from many throughout the Tennessee Valley and beyond.

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