The family and community of Helensburgh are in mourning after the sudden and unexplained death of 11-year-old Olivia Curley, who passed away at Glasgow's Royal Hospital for Children on Monday, 17th November 2025.
A Mother's Heartbreaking Tribute
Olivia's devastated mother, Samantha Curley, paid an emotional tribute to her daughter, describing her as a 'gorgeous loving angel'. In a social media post announcing the tragic news, she wrote: 'I honestly have no words, I am numb...my beautiful girl gained her angel wings today with everyone who loved her round her. She passed peacefully.'
She added that her daughter, an S1 pupil at Hermitage Academy in Helensburgh, was now 'away up to her nana waiting on her' where she would be 'well looked after'. In a poignant message to her daughter, Samantha wrote: 'Fly high sweetheart,' acknowledging that the family would 'never get over you not being here anymore'.
Sudden Illness and Hospital Admission
The tragedy began unfolding over the weekend when Olivia became unwell at her family home in Helensburgh. Her condition deteriorated, prompting relatives to call an ambulance on Sunday. She was rushed to Glasgow's Royal Hospital for Children where she tragically passed away the following day.
In earlier social media posts, her mother had spoken of how Olivia had become poorly over the weekend and failed to improve. Hours before her daughter's death, Samantha wrote a moving message: 'My darling sweetheart this is the last night we will fall asleep together I just want you to know you made me a mum but although you were my daughter you were my strength. I will never get over this sweetheart, but I will tell you we will look after your little sister.'
Community Response and Investigation
Police Scotland confirmed they are treating the death as unexplained and have launched an investigation to establish the full circumstances surrounding the tragedy. A police spokesman said: 'The death is being treated as unexplained and inquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances.'
The local community has been left reeling by the loss. One friend remembered Olivia: 'I can't get my head around it at all, saw Liv just last week in town and she was beautiful...Liv was really special...her words of kindness and wisdom, how she was like this at such a young age is remarkable.'
Another mourner added: 'There no words for what has happened. Your girl will be remembered for the loving kind, sassy inquisitive girl she is. She will always be present in your life, always bringing you all the strength.'
Argyll and Bute Council said it was 'devastated' to learn of the death of one of its pupils and is providing support to Olivia's family, fellow pupils, and staff at Hermitage Academy.
An online fundraiser organised by Christina Blair has been established to help the family give Olivia 'the beautiful farewell she deserves'. The fundraiser had collected more than £3,500 in just a few hours, demonstrating the overwhelming community support.
Ms Blair described Olivia as 'a bright, loving, and unforgettable soul who touched the hearts of everyone who knew her' and 'a cherished friend, full of kindness, laughter, and warmth'. She added that Olivia's passing 'has left a hole in the lives of her family, friends, and all who loved her'.
