Warwick Rallies Aid for Family of Mother Lost in Fire

WARWICK, RI  — Warwick is rising to the aid of the family of Shaylyn Schoonmaker, lunch aide at Sherman Elementary School and former bus driver who died trying to rescue her family’s pets from a fire at her Chesterfield Avenue home Feb. 18. 

About $6,900 has been raised on a Gofundme fundraiser for Shaylyn’s family so far.

“Our family has had great tragedy tonight. They had a fire where they lost everything including a loved one. We lost our sister, niece, cousin, daughter and mother. She was an amazing mother and friend to everyone. We are trying to raise money to help ease their worries,” wrote Kayla Games, who posted the fundraising page.

“We are deeply saddened by the loss of Shaylyn Schoonmaker.  She was a dedicated and valued employee of the Warwick School Department.  Over the years Shaylyn worked as a bus monitor, as well as a server for the school breakfast and lunch programs.  The students and staff members who she worked with cherished her kindness and positive attitude.  Our thoughts and prayers go out to Shaylyn’s family and friends,” Warwick Schools said in a statement about Shaylyn’s passing.