The Greenup community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Paisley Grace Thoele, a beloved 4-year-old girl who died on Friday, July 31, 2026, from injuries sustained in an accident.
Paisley’s death has left her parents, brother, extended family and friends facing an unimaginable loss. Her family remembered her as a gentle, compassionate and joyful child whose four years were filled with love, laughter and countless treasured memories.
According to her family’s obituary, Paisley died at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana after being seriously injured in the accident. Despite medical efforts, she succumbed to her injuries on July 31.
The obituary confirms that her death was related to injuries sustained in the accident, although further details about the circumstances of the incident were not provided.
Paisley was born on April 28, 2022, in Effingham, Illinois, to Ryan and Lacey (Eggers) Thoele. She was the cherished daughter of her parents and the loving older sister of Porter.
Her family remembered Paisley as a thoughtful and caring little girl who loved being involved in whatever her parents were doing. She shared a particularly close bond with her younger brother and was described as protective of him.
Paisley was also known for her adventurous spirit and love of the outdoors. Her family described her as a true country girl who enjoyed camping, riding her beloved pony Millie, playing in the creek and swimming.
She also loved spending time with her family, playing with her cousin and best friend, Ella, and enjoying the simple activities that brought happiness to her young life.
At home, Paisley’s playful personality often shone through. She loved princess dresses, makeup, music and dancing and could frequently be found singing or dancing around the house. Her smile and laughter brought joy to those around her.
She also wanted to help her parents whenever she could. Whether they were working around the house or outside, Paisley wanted to be nearby and take part.
Paisley is survived by her parents, Ryan and Lacey Thoele, and her brother, Porter. Her surviving grandparents include April and Kirk James, William and Dena Eggers, Don and Bev Thoele, and Kristy and John Slifer. She is also survived by great-grandparents Marilyn and Buddy Post and Judy Wilson, along with aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family members and many friends.
Her family has spoken openly about the difficulty of losing a child so young. In an emotional message following Paisley’s death, her mother reflected on the ordinary moments she shared with her daughter — playing dress-up, dancing in the kitchen, swimming, jumping on the trampoline and simply spending time together.
Lacey encouraged other parents to slow down and appreciate those everyday moments with their children. Her message emphasized that the seemingly ordinary experiences families sometimes overlook can become among the most precious memories after a loss.
For the Thoele family, that message carries a deeply personal meaning. Paisley had only four years with them, yet those years were filled with experiences and memories that her family will carry for the rest of their lives.
A public visitation for Paisley Grace Thoele will be held from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday, August 6, 2026, at Barkley Funeral Chapel in Greenup.
A private family funeral service will follow. Paisley will be laid to rest at Aten Cemetery in Hidalgo, Illinois.
The family has asked those mourning Paisley’s death to remember the love, happiness and kindness she brought into their lives.
Her obituary describes a little girl whose personality made a lasting impression despite her young age. Her gentle nature, compassionate heart, adventurous spirit and beautiful smile are now among the memories her family holds closest.
“Paisley didn’t just carry the name Grace—she embodied it,” her family wrote in her obituary.
Those words capture the way her loved ones remember her: as a joyful, caring and playful little girl who loved her family deeply.
Paisley’s life was tragically short, but her family says it was filled with meaningful moments and love. The memories she created with her parents, brother, grandparents, cousins and friends will remain part of her family’s story.
As Greenup mourns, the Thoele family is surrounded by those offering prayers, condolences and support.
Paisley Grace Thoele will be remembered as a cherished daughter, loving sister and joyful little girl whose four years touched many lives. Her memory will continue through the family and friends who loved her.