Just two weeks after beating bone cancer, 13-year-old Jerilynn Brown tragically lost her life in a house fire on July 4 in Independence, Missouri.

The fire started early that morning when leftover fireworks, still smoldering from the night before, ignited the family’s farmhouse. Jerilynn and another adult didn’t make it out. Her mom remains in critical condition.

“She just rang the bell,” her father said, referring to the tradition marking the end of cancer treatment. After two long years fighting osteosarcoma, Jerilynn was finally cancer-free and home.

She was full of faith, strength, and heart. “She got me to go to church. I quit drinking—17 months now. All because of her,” her dad shared. Her stepfather added, “She’s free now.”

The family has launched a fundraiser to help with funeral and medical costs, and they’re asking everyone to check their smoke detectors—a simple act that could save lives.

Jerilynn had just won her fight. And in the cruelest twist, she was taken far too soon.