In the aftermath of the Uvalde school shooting in 2022, grief swept across Texas and the nation. For Trey Ganem, owner of SoulShine Industries, the tragedy became a call to compassion. Rather than offering standard caskets, Ganem chose to honor each of the 19 children with something deeply personal—a resting place that reflected their joy, passions, and individuality.

Ganem met with every family, listening as they shared memories of their children—their favorite colors, superheroes, hobbies, even TikTok designs. From dinosaurs to Disney characters, no detail was too small. Each casket was crafted as a tribute, a final canvas telling the story of a life cut far too short.

Working alongside his son Billy and a group of volunteers, Ganem poured long hours into the work, often sanding, painting, and finishing designs through the night. Every casket was completed in time for the funerals—and every one was donated at no cost.

“It wasn’t just building caskets,” Ganem explained. “It was about bringing a little light into an unimaginable darkness.”

For the families, the personalized designs offered a measure of comfort. For the community, they stood as a reminder that even in moments of unspeakable tragedy, compassion can help carry the weight of sorrow. Ganem’s work was more than craftsmanship—it was an act of love, dignity, and remembrance, ensuring each child would be remembered not by the violence of their passing, but by the joy and uniqueness of their lives.