Families across Rockland County are mourning the unexpected loss of a longtime educator who spent two decades helping students with disabilities.

Amanda Christine Lydon died Thursday at the age of 38.

A cause of death has not been released.

Lydon began working at Rockland BOCES when she was just 18 years old and built a 20-year career serving students with disabilities.

Friends and loved ones say her dedication to helping children extended beyond the classroom.

Following her death, a GoFundMe was launched in her memory to benefit Backpack Program Inc., a nonprofit that provides food-filled backpacks to children facing food insecurity on weekends and during school breaks.

Organizers say the charity reflects Lydon’s lifelong commitment to helping young people and supporting families in need.

The fundraiser has already raised more than $27,000, far surpassing its original goal of $10,000.