The Portland community is deeply saddened by the heartbreaking loss of Emma Mae Onstott, a 19-year-old resident whose passing on November 25, 2025, has left many grieving. Emma’s death is felt profoundly by her loved ones, her friends, and the broader LGBTQ+ community who knew her as a young woman of sincerity, quiet courage, and authentic self-expression. Her absence leaves a silence that reflects just how meaningful her presence truly was.
Emma will be remembered for the warmth and gentleness she brought into every space she entered. She possessed a thoughtful and introspective spirit—someone who noticed the small details, listened with genuine care, and offered kindness without hesitation. Those who met her often spoke of her creativity and her ability to bring comfort simply through her calm and steady demeanor. Emma’s journey as a transgender woman reflected both strength and vulnerability, qualities that inspired many who witnessed her determination to live truthfully and compassionately.
Her passing is not only a personal tragedy for her family and friends, but also a painful reminder of the challenges faced by transgender youth. Emma’s life encourages us to reaffirm our collective responsibility to foster empathy, support, and understanding—especially for those navigating identity in a world that does not always offer them safety. In honoring Emma, we also honor the importance of building communities where all young people feel seen, valued, and protected.
To those who loved Emma, we extend our deepest condolences. Grief of this magnitude is immeasurable, and no words can fully ease the weight of such a loss. Yet we hope that memories of Emma—her laughter, her creativity, her kindness—bring moments of comfort in the days ahead. May her family and friends find strength in the support of those around them, and may they feel the embrace of a community that mourns alongside them.
Emma Mae Onstott’s legacy lives on in the hearts she touched, the authenticity she inspired, and the quiet resilience she embodied. May she be remembered not for the tragedy of her passing, but for the light she brought during her time among us. May her memory be a blessing, and may she rest in peace.