JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The family of a 3-year-old who was killed in a triple shooting last September, threw a birthday party today to remember her life.
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Kae’lynn Matthews would have turned four on Feb. 15. Her grandmother spoke about a fond memory that she will always cherish.
“She was our bougie baby because whenever you asked her what she wanted to eat, it was always shrimp or crab,” Valencia Strowder said. “That’s all she wanted to eat. But that’s always my long-lasting memories. So now when I’m cooking shrimp it’s ‘like Kae, I got you some shrimp.’”
Matthews was killed in a triple shooting back in September at an apartment complex on Jacksonville’s Southside following a disagreement. Since her passing, her family continues to hold her in their memories.
“We’re celebrating the heavenly fourth birthday of Kae’Lynn Marie Matthews,” Strowder said. “We wish she was here to celebrate with us, but we’re still keeping her spirit alive.”
Strowder said it’s been difficult not having her grandaughter with the family.
“We take every day, as it comes just thankful and grateful for the memories, Strowder said. “We’re going through counseling and trying to check in with JSO every so often to see if there are any leads, but still talk to Kay every day. We know her spirit is still here, loving on us. And we of course want her to know we just miss her dearly and still love her.”
Matthews’ great aunt, Robbin Wells talked about what the family would be doing if she was still alive.
“We would be laughing and smiling and running around the room dancing. She had a bubbly personality and just loved everybody. She would be happy,” Wells said.
She added that no one should have to lose their child to gun violence.
Through the pain, they continue to hope the person responsible for her death is found.
“I know someone knows something, please share. If you just have the slightest idea about anything, please take those tips to JSO. They’re trying, but they really don’t have a lot to go on. But I know you have something you can share that will get us that much closer to finding the people that did this,” Strowder said.