Newstalk ZB
A toddler who died in a Christchurch house fire that also killed her mother is being remembered for her “infectious smile that could light up any room”. Sapphire-Hope Couch and her 23-year-old mother, Rose-Maree Couch, died after a fire tore through a home in Whitehall St, Mairehau, last Thursday. Sapphire-Hope, known as Sapphy, died at the scene, while her mother was taken to hospital and died from her injuries the next day. Four other children, aged between 10 weeks and 5 years old, were also injured in the fire. In a statement provided to the Herald, the family described Sapphire-Hope as a sassy little girl, and Couch as a devoted mother with a “heart of gold”. “Sapphy had an infectious smile that could light up any room. She was full of personality, definitely the boss among her siblings, and had so much sass. “She loved spending one-on-one time with her parents, especially cuddles and sneaking treats from the chocolate stash.” The day after the fatal house fire on Whitehall St in Mairehau. Photo / Mike Thorpe The family said Rose-Maree was “gentle” by nature and died peacefully, surrounded by her loved ones. “Rose was deeply loved by her family, friends, and the wider community. “She had a heart of gold and was always there to offer support, kindness, or a listening ear to anyone in need. “Gentle and quiet by nature, she was also fiercely protective of her children and devoted to those she loved.” They said Jamie, Sapphire-Hope’s father and Couch’s partner, had been left devastated by their deaths. The family praised Shane Hall, the father of two of the surviving children, calling him a “hero” for rescuing four children from the burning house. “Words cannot truly express how grateful we are. In our eyes, you are a hero,” the statement read. “Please know how deeply we love and appreciate you, and that we will always stand beside you and support you through this time.” The family said the pair “meant everything” to their whānau and everyone whose lives they touched. “This has been an incredibly difficult time for our whānau, and we are still coming to terms with this sudden and devastating loss. “Rose’s parents Shiree and Neville are also facing the heartbreaking loss of their precious daughter and granddaughter.” The family thanked emergency services, including police, fire crews, ambulance staff, ICU teams and the Children’s High Dependency Unit, for their care and dedication. The aftermath of the fatal blaze. Photo / Mike Thorpe They also acknowledged support from the Christchurch Methodist Mission. “We would also like to thank Nancy and the Christchurch Methodist Mission, who have supported everyone affected by the fire by helping provide clothing, bedding, and other essentials for Jay, Shane, the four children, and Rose-Maree’s mother.” The family said they had been overwhelmed by community support and donations to a Givealittle page set up after the tragedy. They said any remaining money after funeral costs would be divided equally between the four surviving children. “Thank you from the bottom of our hearts to everyone who has been part of Rose-Maree and Sapphy’s lives, and to everyone who has supported us in any way, whether through actions, donations, or messages.” The family also addressed reports of public memorials being organised for the mother and daughter. “This is really beautiful. However, we as a family have not arranged any memorials. “We are still in the process of arranging the funeral, and would like our privacy respected.” Earlier, a family friend shared a message from the family thanking the community for rallying around them. “While we have our hands full, we are so very grateful for everything. We ask that people continue showing love and respect the way they have been. This has been a devastating loss to our whān...
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