'The Vampire Diaries' Death Toll: Characters we've loved and lost

We loved her because: WE LOVED HER FOR SO MANY REASONS. Besides being awesome, hot, and fun, Lexi was Stefan's best friend -- and perhaps his only true friend through the years. She helped him deal with his transformation during the Civil War, and returned in the 1920s to coax Stefan through 30 years of ripper rehab. "1935: The cravings are there, but it's easier," reads Stefan's diary. "Lexi's on to her next project. Getting me to laugh." Honestly. She was the best.

We lost her because: Damon's diabolical plan in Season 1 was the worst. He's killed a lot of people over the last few seasons, but this one hurts the most, not only for us as viewers, but also for his brother. Lexi came to town for her annual birthday visit with Stefan, and for once, he had a little fun! Meanwhile, Damon attacked some Mystic Fallsians to say that Lexi had attacked them. Sheriff Forbes, believing that Lexi was the vampire who had been making all the kills, injected her with vervain. Damon staked her to prove that he was on Team Founders' Council. "Part of the plan," he told her. Like we said, his plan was the worst.