Ella Renee Lininger

Ella Renee Lininger April 20, 2022 – May 30, 2025

Ella Renee Lininger was born on April 20, 2022, at Children’s Mercy Hospital in Kansas City, Missouri. From the moment she entered the world, she showed everyone what it meant to be brave. Born with C.H.A.R.G.E. Syndrome — a complex and rare genetic condition — Ella faced extraordinary challenges with a strength far beyond her years.

After spending 309 days in the NICU, Ella came home, where she belonged, to be surrounded by the love of her family. Every day with her was a miracle. Her beautiful eyes, bright spirit, and tender presence touched all who met her. Though her time here was far too short, her impact was immeasurable.

Ella’s greatest hurdle in life was congenital heart disease. She bravely endured multiple open-heart surgeries, which kept her in the Cardiac Intensive Care Unit for an astounding 268 days. Through every challenge, she showed incredible strength and resilience. Eventually, Ella received a mechanical heart valve, a testament to both her fight to live and the uniqueness that made her so special. Her heart may have needed help, but it never lacked courage.

Ella passed peacefully into the arms of her Heavenly Father on May 30, 2025. She leaves behind her devoted mother, Jennifer Lininger, her loving father, Matt Hammack, and two adoring brothers, Jack (5) and Knox (1), who always made her smile. She is also survived by her cherished grandparents, Jean Lininger, Jamie Perkins, Stan and Velinda Hammack, Aunt Brandy Hammack, and Unlces Trevor Hammack, Nathaniel Hammack, and Tucker Perkins, who held a special place in Ella’s heart.

Ella was a warrior — courageous, strong, and full of grace. Her life was a testament to love, hope, and perseverance. Though her body could no longer keep up with the load she carried, her spirit lives on in the hearts of all who loved her.

Services will be held at Johnson County Funeral Chapel and Memorial Gardens. Visitation will be held on June 13th from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., with the funeral following on June 14th at 12:00 p.m. The family has chosen to hold a private graveside service.

In honoring Ella, we remember a little girl who changed the world simply by being in it. She will be missed beyond measure and loved beyond words.

---“Without butterflies, there would be no change.” -Maya Angelou