Briella Ryan Mulligan, 16

Briella Ryan Mulligan, 16, of Omaha, NE, passed away February 2, 2025. Born April 9, 2008, Briella grew up with a compassionate heart and a spirit that radiated warmth. Her smile could light up a room, and her laughter brought comfort and joy to everyone she encountered.

A true animal lover, Briella was a devoted member of Midwest Wheaten Rescue from a young age. Dogs were instinctively drawn to her—they knew a kind spirit when they met one. Many animals found comfort in her care, especially during their most vulnerable times. She had a deep love for her own pets and, alongside her parents, fostered many dogs in need of loving homes.

Briella loved her family, friends, pets, movies, reading, thrifting, and her beloved Converse shoes.

We will forever cherish the memories we shared with her: playing cards and board games, sleepovers with cousins, trips to the movies, ice cream outings, visits to the zoo, swimming, boating, time on the farm, and family gatherings, especially the annual “Zwiener Olympics” over the 4th of July. Every moment with her was a precious gift.

She attended Millard West High School and worked part-time at Sonic. Briella was excited for the future, dreaming of moving to England after graduation to study abroad and explore the world. Her future was filled with promise, and she will forever be remembered for the dreams she had, the love she gave, and the joy she brought to all who knew her. She was everything we could have hoped for in a daughter, sister, cousin, niece, granddaughter, and friend. She embodied all that is good in this world, and we are deeply grateful for the time we had with her. Her spirit will remain with us always. She is survived by her parents, Heather and Ryan Mulligan; her sister, Brea; grandparents, Deb Zwiener, Pam and Rich Markus; and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins. Briella was preceded in death by her beloved Grandpa Willie; great-grandparents, Bill and Alvia Troutt, Bernard and Corlene Zwiener, Jim and Mary Anne McCollister, Bernice and John Mulligan.

A Celebration of Briella’s Life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of cards, flowers or gifts, please consider a memorial donation to Midwest Wheaten Rescue in honor of Briella’s love for animals.

PayPal: https://www.midwestwheatenrescue. org/donate Checks: MWR: Attn: Alma Knoll, 19271 Ames Ave. Circle, Elkhorn, NE 68022.