The heartbroken family of a schoolgirl who passed away last month will say their final goodbyes this week.

Tragic Grace Handling will be laid to rest on Thursday in what her devastated family are calling “a celebration of her life”.

The beautiful teenager was found dead at a house in Irvine on Friday, June 29. She was just 13-years-old.

Since her death sent shockwaves around the community Grace’s family, dad Stewart, mum Lorraine, Sister Danielle and brother Matthew, have been drawing strength from their faith and each other as they learn to live without their youngest child.

Stewart told the Times he hopes everyone who knew Grace will be able to make it to the celebration.

He said: “All Grace’s friends as well as our friends are very welcome.”

Grace’s body was discovered at a house in Arran Place at around 2.40pm on the last day of school before the summer break.

Stewart says his daughter had been looking forward to the holidays: “Grace was a bright girl who loved life. She was looking forward to summer with her family and friends.

“Grace lit up our lives and she was adored by us. Our faith is giving us a lot of strength and reassurance.”

Grace will be laid to rest at Fullarton Connexions on Thursday, July 19 at 10am.

There will be a donation box at the service for Barnardos.