The devastating wildfires sweeping through Southern California have claimed the lives of many, including 95-year-old Dalyce Curry, who had once appeared as an extra in the iconic film The Blues Brothers. Her family has confirmed her passing, marking another tragic loss in one of the most catastrophic wildfire events in U.S. history.
As of now, the fires have taken at least 25 lives, with countless others displaced, left to grapple with the destruction of homes, businesses, and communities. Among the victims, Curry’s story has struck a chord, shedding light on the human toll behind the statistics.
Dalyce Curry’s granddaughter, Dalyce Kelley, shared the heartbreaking news on Facebook, revealing that her grandmother’s remains were discovered late on Sunday, January 12. “We had a great run,” Kelley wrote. “She impacted my life in so many ways. This loss is devastating.”
Kelley also recounted the harrowing final hours before the fire engulfed Curry’s home on Krenz Street. On January 8, just after returning from a hospital visit, Kelley and Curry noticed smoke in the distance. Despite its proximity, no evacuation orders had been issued, and the two believed the fire was unlikely to reach the house.
Recalling their last exchange, Kelley said: “She gave me a big wet kiss and said, ‘I love you.’ I told her, ‘I love you too,’ and made sure she was safe inside. We were both exhausted from the day, and I didn’t think she was in immediate danger since there was no evacuation order.”
That kiss, though overly wet as Kelley humorously noted, was a testament to Curry’s affectionate nature. It would also be their final goodbye.
By the early hours of January 9, the Eaton Fire had spread rapidly, consuming several blocks in Altadena, including Curry’s neighborhood. Kelley woke to the alarming news and rushed to the area, only to be met with police barricades and a scene of overwhelming destruction.
“It was like stepping into hell,” Kelley described. “Everything was black, and people were shouting about losing their homes.”
Authorities later confirmed Curry’s home had been destroyed. Despite holding out hope that her grandmother had been evacuated, Kelley received the devastating call from the county Medical Examiner: Curry’s remains had been found in the ruins.
The loss of Dalyce Curry serves as a poignant reminder of the immense human suffering caused by these wildfires. Her granddaughter’s tribute captures not just the pain of her passing but also the deep love and connection they shared.
As California continues to battle these relentless blazes, we mourn Curry and all those who have lost their lives, while keeping in our hearts the countless others affected by this tragedy. May they find peace and healing in the face of such unimaginable loss.