'We need this strength': Victoria Truss' family leans on community at vigil honoring murdered mother

SHOREWOOD, Wis. (CBS 58) -- Thirty-four-year-old Victoria Truss was celebrated Tuesday afternoon, July 8, in Shorewood, outside her apartment where she was shot and killed last Thursday morning.

Family and friends shared memories and talked about the best ways to honor her memory.

There were plenty of positive moments mixed in with the sadness. As the community supports Truss' family, the family wants to support the community.

There was sunshine in Shorewood before and after the memorial, but a heavy rain fell during. One woman said it was a symbol of their grief.

Victoria's mother, Trina Freeland, told those gathered, "We need this strength. She's my daughter, my only girl."

It was hard to distinguish heavy tears from heavy rain Tuesday afternoon, as Truss' family and friends gathered to celebrate her life.

Freeland said her heart will forever be broken, but she was comforted by the community's support. "It feels good. My heart is smiling. I know my baby is in heaven."

Her brother, Antonio Truss, also said it made a difference. "I just appreciate all the love that my sister gave to this community and that you're all giving back."

As the family prepares for the funeral, they're also focusing on happier times.

Antonio Truss said, "Her best moments? There's a lot of those. I'm going to miss her smile, her cracking jokes."

They said Vikki loved hosting parties, eating and cooking as a family, and going to concerts and comedy shows.

Her grandmother, Carla Drane, said they shared a special bond. She's now leaning on her faith. "As much as I loved her, as much as the family loved her, God loved her more."

Vikki's coworkers from Metro Market also withstood the rain. One told the family, "We loved her so much, and we adored her."

And perfect strangers also came.

Mary Lee McCallum told us, "It's heartbreaking to all of us."

McCallum did not know Vikki but wanted to show her support. "It's not just today that matters. Check in with these people in months. Check in with them in a year. Because, as a mom, it never goes away," she said.

No one mentioned Victoria's killer, a former boyfriend, by name.

But her family urged people to get help if they're in domestic violence situations.

Antonio said, "Stop ignoring red flags. Exit right away."

And he also spoke of the benefits of therapy during and after crisis situations. "Go see therapy. That's another thing about us Black folks. It's ok to go sit down and talk about it," adding, "Let it out. Talk to somebody who you feel comfortable with."

The heavy rain prevented a balloon release, so they instead tied them to Vikki's apartment steps, an outward sign of strength.

Antonio Truss said, "These kids have to understand a life is a privilege. You only get one shot, so don't take it for granted."

Victoria's grandmother said one way to honor her granddaughter's life is to put down the guns.

Victoria Truss' funeral will be held next Friday, July 18, at Bethesda Baptist Church at 20th and Locust. A viewing will start at 11 a.m. The funeral service will start at 12:30.