Rhinanna Busbee

Cold Springs faculty and students will return next week to a school environment very different from the one they left when classes let out for Spring Break.

Students gathered at the Cold Springs High School band room Thursday for a vigil to commemorate the life of 13-year-old Rhinanna Busbee, who died with her mother, Tonya Busbee, 34, in a two-vehicle accident Tuesday near Trimble.

Rhianna, a seventh grader who played drums in the school’s Royal Blue band, had a zestful personality animated by a strong urge to care for others in need, said Cold Springs K-8 Principal Vicky Johnson.

“She was a very sweet young lady, and she had a great sense of humor,” said Johnson Thursday.

“She was always wanting to help people, and she always took up for the underdog. Whenever she felt like someone was being bullied, she would always take up for them right there on the spot, or else she would just come to me and say, ‘Ms. Johnson, we need to talk.’ She could be a little sassy whenever she felt like someone was being wronged, and she knew how to put that spirit to use for a good purpose.”

Busbee’s 7th grade class is populated by just more than 70 students. In a class that small, in a community of Cold Springs’ size, her presence was never anonymous — and her absence, said Johnson, will be conspicuous.

“She was very much a part of things here,” Johnson said. “She loved being a part of the Royal Blue band, and last week, she performed in our talent show. She sang. I think several of us were really surprised at what a powerful and beautiful singing voice she had. She just lit up and beamed.”

As classes resume next week, the school system will have additional counselors on hand for students and faculty members affected by the tragedy.

“I never had the chance to know Rhianna personally, but every teacher and staff member I’ve spoken with has told me what a bright and happy young lady she was,” said County School Superintendent Shane Barnette.

“I am going to really be praying for Rhianna, her mother and her family. And I requesting that everyone remember her, and her family, and the community at Cold Springs, in their prayers.”

A GoFundMe account has been established to help the family with funeral and related expenses. Donors can contribute any amount, and have the option to do so anonymously. The account can be reached by visiting www.gofundme.com/tonya-rihanna-burial-expenses.