A beloved hula dancer who won the Miss Aloha Hula title in 2005 has died, and her hula family is mourning her joyful spirit.

• She died at age 45 at a Honolulu hospital after a sudden illness led to heart failure.
• She was remembered as a natural performer who brought hula to life through movement and emotion, never judging people and always finding the best in everyone.
• Her hula teachers said they saw her special talent from the very beginning, calling her one of the finest students they ever had.
• Friends and family shared a meal in her honor, describing her as someone who struggled at times but always bounced back, choosing laughter and light over negativity.

Outlook: Her hula community says her passing is a reminder to embrace loved ones while they're here.