Her radiant spirit, contagious smile and non-stop energy made deep and lasting memories with everyone she met.
Finnleigh’s Story
Finnleigh Grace Infante was born on April, 7, 2016 in Dallas, Texas. From an early age, it was clear to all who knew her that Finnleigh was impossible to forget – her radiant spirit, contagious smile and non-stop energy made deep and lasting memories with everyone she met. With a full head of the whitest curly hair flashing through the house or bouncing around a playground, she could not be missed. Those who knew her best would say that Finnleigh was loud, proud, and full of love. Finnleigh’s middle name, Grace, was fitting. From the way she moved, to the way she treated others - her demeanor was that of simple elegance. She always wore her heart on her sleeve, as she was courteous with goodwill.
A consummate girly girl, Finnleigh embraced her femininity. She was a showstopper, captivating those around her with her singing and dancing performances. The fashionista was known for her frequent wardrobe changes – it was simply a fun part of her daily routine. She loved to wear dresses, tutus, and take one arm out of her shirt, just like her favorite movie character Moana. And much like Moana, Finnleigh demonstrated a powerful zest for life. She loved her family fiercely, and her big sister, Collyns, was her best friend. She was courageous and lived life fearlessly.
On May 19, 2019, six weeks after celebrating Finnleigh’s third birthday, the unthinkable happened.
Finnleigh and Collyns were at a family member’s house getting ready to go to a pool party next door. Finnleigh made her way into the backyard, where was able to access the pool. Shortly thereafter, a family member found Finnleigh in the pool. She was pulled out and multiple people attempted to resuscitate her until the ambulance came to take her to the hospital. Finnleigh’s family anxiously waited at the hospital, as the doctors attempted to revive her. Unfortunately, despite their best efforts, the doctors were unable to bring her back. A parent’s worst fear became a waking nightmare, and life was forever changed for Finnleigh’s family and loved ones.
Perhaps the deepest part of this tragedy is that it could have been avoided. Compelled by a passion to prevent this from happening to another child, Finnleigh’s father, Kenny, founded Finnleigh’s Grace, a non-profit organization focused on the installation of pool safety equipment around home pools frequented by children. It is his original vision to drive change in a physical, tangible way which continues to inspire Finnleigh’s Grace to this day. Our work in safegating pools compliments the diligent and passionate education work done by other pool safety awareness organizations.
Finnleigh’s Grace believes that education and awareness can be greatly enhanced by layers of protection, particularly physical barriers like fences and gates. Children’s lives can be saved, and we at Finnleigh’s Grace hope that you join us in our mission.
Finnleigh's vivacious life inspired her dad to start Finnleigh's Grace to help families keep their children safe.
Finnleigh’s Daddy
Kenny Infante was a special person, beloved by his many friends and family, and his passion, enthusiasm, and belief in others continues to inspire Finnleigh’s Grace even after his untimely passing in January of 2023.
A longtime resident of North Texas, he spent most of his early life in Carrollton, Texas. He graduated from Newman Smith High School and earned a Division 1 soccer scholarship at Radford and Tulsa University, where he played forward, usually at striker. Following his soccer career, he graduated from Oklahoma University with a degree in Journalism and a minor in Advertising.
During his career, Kenny specialized in education administration, seeing his “why” as providing a path forward for youth to find and develop their own purpose. A champion for causes others might see as lost, he had a special place in his heart for the handful of students that others believe could not be reached. He was motivated by a passionate belief that every child deserves an advocate and coach, no matter what the rest of the world may tell them. He ultimately served as assistant principal at his alma mater, Newman Smith High School, having also worked as assistant principal at Vivian Field, Perry, and Dan F. Long Middle Schools. Prior to his move into administration, Kenny also served as an Athletic Coordinator and Coach for Vivian Field Middle School.
Kenny was the proud father of Collyns and Finnleigh Grace, whom he loves with his whole heart, both during his life and forever after.