A mother of six who was murdered in her Huddersfield home has given other families the gift of life by donating her organs just before Christmas. Lisa Smith, 33, was found with severe head injuries at a property on Fernside Avenue in Almondbury in the early hours of Friday, December 19. She was taken to hospital in a critical condition and died on Sunday evening, December 21.
In a heartbreaking statement, her mother said: “This is one of the hardest things I have ever had to share. Lisa Jane Louise Smith fell to sleep at 17:28 on the 21/12/2025. I tucked her in tightly and kissed her goodnight.” The family described how Lisa “had one final party she needed to attend to make sure she could spread some Christmas magic” by helping other families through organ donation.
West Yorkshire Police have now confirmed that her death is being treated as murder. A post-mortem examination will be carried out to establish the exact cause of death. Gareth Brook, 34, has been charged with Section 18 wounding with intent in relation to the incident. He appeared in court on Saturday and was remanded in custody to appear at Leeds Crown Court on January 16.
The community has rallied around Lisa’s six children, with friends launching a GoFundMe page to help her mother with funeral costs. One friend wrote: “Lisa was a loving daughter, a devoted mum, and a loyal friend whose kindness and strength touched everyone who knew her. She leaves behind six beautiful children who were her whole world.”
Social media tributes described her as “the most selfless human being” and “a bubbly, kind-hearted person”. West Yorkshire Police said their enquiries remain ongoing.
