Wasilla family seeks help for funeral costs

Diane Irving and fianc/ Dustin Proctor spent their entire dividends in an attempt to move their three children to start a new life in Dallas, Texas, last month. Not only were their expectations of promised employment not met, but tragedy struck the family two days after their arrival.

Irving's 3-year-old daughter Brandeigh Russell, drowned in a swimming pool their second day in Texas, on Nov. 1. Surviving are the couple, the child's father, Lloyd Russell of Wasilla, 4-year-old twins Amelia and Peyton Russell, 18-year-old half-brother Stephan Harford, as well as numerous step- and half-brothers and sisters.

Now the couple desperately want to return with Harford and the twins back home to Wasilla. Valley Funeral Home is handling the funeral arrangements, and although the body of their young child was brought to Alaska earlier this week, the family was still trying to come up with enough money for tickets Wednesday for their return. Ticket prices alone are estimated at $3,000, according to family member Andrea Martinez, who said they may be getting some help from a local church for at least one of the tickets. Lack of money for travel expenses and for funeral costs, however, have added more burden to their grief.

Anyone who would like to help the family can contact Kari Sleight with Hope's Helping Hand at 352-2250, or call Martinez, at (360) 260-3500.