Keeping Brandy’s Light Alive Through Her Story
November 30, 1992 – May 17, 2012
Brandy Stevens-Rosine was a beloved daughter, grand-daughter, friend, and student whose life was tragically cut short.
This memorial honors her memory, shares her story, and spreads awareness. Scroll to see tribute videos below.
Thirteen Years
A Tribute
Brandy's radiant laugh, deep compassion, and passion for life continue to inspire everyone who knew her. Her spirit lives on in the people she touched, and in the way we choose to live, love, and remember.
We’ve created a 6-minute tribute video featuring Brandy’s mom, Carrie, sharing her journey of grief, healing, and hope. You’ll also hear Brandy’s voice and laughter, a moment that brings her spirit close again.
Watch the 6-minute tribute video to hear Carrie’s reflections and Brandy’s beautiful laugh.
Though our candlelight vigils have come to a close, we invite you to light a candle in your own way — a quiet moment at home, a shared memory, or a visit to Brandy’s memorial bench at Youngstown State University.
We remember Brandy not just in sorrow, but in strength, joy, and the lasting love she gave so freely.
Rest easy, Brandy. ❤️
“Because of you, I learned that love is a precious gift... I will love hard and I will love deep.”
Who Is Brandy?
Brandy's Childhood
Brandy was born on November 30th, 1992 in Northeast Ohio. A location about half the distance between Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and Cleveland, Ohio.
Brandy was close with her family growing up, spending much time with her sister, her grandparents, and her cousins.
By the time Brandy was in middle school, she had developed a love for cats, music, riding go-carts, and creative writing.
Boardman High School Graduate
Brandy was an orchestra member for 8 years, playing the upright bass. She played the electric bass at home and enjoyed jam sessions with her close friends. She was part of the Teen Advisory Board for the Boardman library where they still have a section of books dedicated to her.
She liked taking walks after school with her friends. Or staring at stars in the driveway. Warped Tours. Punk music. But she could also be found blasting country or rap and singing loud with her sister in the car together.
Brandy was silly and fun to be around. One example that I feel so lucky to have to listen to when I miss her most, is this clip of her singing a song called 'Right Said Fred" with her best friend. Here is a link to the clip.
Aspirations
Brandy genuinely cared about people. She was a great listener and uplifted people who came to her for help or advice. She gravitated toward people who were going through tough times or experiencing challenges. She was wise beyond her years.
Brandy was well-read and had an interest in understanding human behavior. Why do people do the things they do? She wanted to head down a career path that would allow her to explore this further; turn her natural abilities and interest into a tool that would help others. She was a college student studying psychology and sociology at Youngstown State University at the time of her death.
The Tragedy
What took Brandy from us?
Brandy made the mistake of trusting someone who took advantage of her big heart. Brandy was lured to that person's house on May 17th, 2012, and she was sadly never heard from again.
The Aftermath
Reacting to the tragic loss
Brandy's family and friends came together in the aftermath of the tragedy that left us shocked and grieving. Learn about the memorial bench and candlelight vigils.
Video below created by Brandy's good friend Ariel in 2012.