The family, friends, teammates, and community of Mya Bella Golabek are mourning the heartbreaking loss of a beautiful 9-year-old girl whose life brought love, laughter, and happiness to everyone fortunate enough to know her.
Born on April 6, 2017, Mya entered the world with a bright spirit that touched the hearts of those around her. Though her time on Earth was far too short, she created countless memories and left behind a legacy of love, kindness, and joy that will continue to live on through her family and friends.
Mya was remembered as a sweet, fun-loving child with a vibrant personality and a competitive spirit. She loved being active and poured her heart into everything she did. Her passion for softball and basketball allowed her to share her determination, teamwork, and love for competition with teammates and coaches who admired her dedication.
Outside of sports, Mya enjoyed swimming, beach days, and crabbing during summer evenings. She also had a creative side that shined through crafting and drawing, activities where she could express her imagination and share her talents with those around her.
One of Mya’s greatest joys was the special bond she shared with her two dogs, Tequila and Captain. They brought her comfort, companionship, and countless happy memories. Their relationship reflected Mya’s gentle, caring, and loving nature.
Those who knew Mya will remember her beautiful smile, kind heart, and ability to bring happiness wherever she went. She had a special way of making people feel loved and valued, leaving a lasting impression on everyone whose life she touched.
Mya shared an especially close bond with her brother, Siggy. The two were not only siblings but best friends who shared laughter, adventures, and countless cherished moments. Their connection represented a love that will continue beyond this life, leaving behind a reminder of the unbreakable bond they shared.
Mya Bella Golabek is survived by her parents, Jennifer and Sigmund Golabek; grandparents Laurie and Steven Schneider, Roseann Chiarella, Sigmund Golabek, and Dawn Poppe; aunts and uncles Ashley and Zachary Davidson, Sara and Ralph Guzzi, and Taylor Bottomly; cousins Gianna, Nico, Macie, Luciana, and Tori; great aunts and uncles Deborah Bottomly, Wayne Cisecki, Elaine and Mike Chiarella, Joanne and Elmer Manick, Lynn Tedeschi, Joann and Kevin McGinnis, and Robin Pollard; great grandparents Samuel Chiarella, Frank and Anne Schneider; along with extended family, friends, teammates, and all who loved her.
She was preceded in death by her great grandparents Margaret and Paul Cisecki, Sarah Chiarella, and Mary and Sigmund Golabek.
Funeral arrangements have been announced. Visitation will be held on Friday, July 24, 2026, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Riggs Funeral Home, 130 North Main Street, Forked River. A Funeral Liturgy will be offered at 7:30 p.m., with cremation to remain private.
In memory of Mya, the family has requested that donations be made to the 10U Storm Softball Team through @LaceyStormSoftball, honoring the sport and community that brought her so much happiness.
Although Mya’s life was tragically short, the love she shared, the friendships she created, and the joy she brought to others will never be forgotten. She will forever remain a beloved daughter, sister, granddaughter, teammate, and friend.
Forever loved. Forever missed. Forever remembered.
May Mya Bella Golabek rest in eternal peace.