Beloved British author and illustrator Caroline Jayne Church, who was perhaps best known for illustrating the international bestseller I Love You Through and Through, written by Bernadette Rossetti-Shustak, died April 25. She was 55. Her family remembered her as someone who was "hugely energetic and hard-working and always had a project on the go. Her zest for life, great character and sense of humor was loved by all who knew her. She leaves behind many friends and colleagues who will miss her dearly."
Church's books include Ten Tiny Toes; I Love You Goodnight; How Do I Love You? (by Marion Dane Bauer); You Are My Sunshine (by Jimmie Davis); I Am a Big Sister; I Am a Big Brother; Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star; and many more colorful books for young children. Her last completed book, I Love You Through and Through at Christmas, Too! will be published by Cartwheel Books/Scholastic on September 25.
A celebration of her life was held May 12 in Whitchurch, Hampshire. On Facebook, her family posted: "She wouldn't have wanted a sad occasion so the dress code will be bright and cheerful!"