For KC Mothers in Charge founder Rosilyn Temple, losing her son was like “an out-of-body experience.”
Temple’s son, Antonio “PeeWee” Thompson, was fatally shot in 2011 , on the night before Thanksgiving. His death was especially lonely and confusing without a clear avenue for support in the days that followed, she said.
Years later, Temple accompanies Kansas City police to the site of every homicide reported to provide immediate support to families experiencing their own losses. But for the loved ones of homicide victims, Temple feels, help shouldn’t end at the funeral.
“You’re not there,” Temple said. “You can remember everything, but you need somebody to be there to help you walk the process.”
Wednesday was the 17th annual National Day of Remembrance for Homicide Victims, which victim support nonprofit KC Mothers in Charge marked by bringing together grieving residents with other Kansas City groups devoted to their healing.
Thousands of Kansas City residents have lost parents, children and loved ones to homicide. Among them are the about 50 residents who gathered in the auditorium at 3200 Wayne Ave. Wednesday, quietly trading stories of their lost loved ones in between speakers.