OCALA, FL (352today.com) – For families torn apart by gun violence, healing is a long and painful road—but one that can be walked together. That was the message at War Cry 4 Peace’s recent gathering, held June 1 at the Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place. The event brought together survivors, families, and supporters to honor lost loved ones and offer strength to those still grieving.

War Cry 4 Peace has been a fixture in Ocala for more than a decade, offering emotional and spiritual support to families impacted by gun violence. Founded on faith, love, and a mission to heal, the group has become a trusted space for those seeking comfort and meaning after unthinkable loss.

“War Cry has been a great journey for me because it helps me to love people because of the impact that gun violence has had on their lives,” said Rev. Kimberly Wilkerson, president of War Cry 4 Peace. “Personally, I’ve never lost anyone to gun violence. I was like Lord, ‘Why me?’ I have no one in my family that has passed to gun violence. He said, ‘I chose you.’ It’s been a 10-year journey. We’ve lost a lot of people to gun violence in Marion County, but God has sent people to love on other people that they may heal, and that is what War Cry is all about.”

Wilkerson shared how War Cry began, crediting Lawana Croskey as “The Dreamer” who first envisioned the group’s purpose.

Powerful testimonials from survivors spoke directly to the deep, lasting impact of loss. Fashun Ivery told the audience that grief has no time limit and encouraged attendees to keep moving forward. Pamela Dias, who lost her daughter Ajike “AJ” Owens on June 2, 2023, shared the loneliness and anger she’s faced.

Powerful testimonials from survivors spoke directly to the deep, lasting impact of loss. Fashun Ivery told the audience that grief has no time limit and encouraged attendees to keep moving forward. Pamela Dias, who lost her daughter Ajike “AJ” Owens on June 2, 2023, shared the loneliness and anger she’s faced.

“I always felt like no one understood my pain,” Dias said. “I was mad at God for a very long time. How could God take a single mom, my only daughter and leave four children behind. I questioned God, ‘Why did this happen? Why me?’ I’m still searching and praying for those answers.”

Daniel Johnson Jr., a recent Vanguard High School graduate, honored his brother’s memory as he prepares to play college football. “My advice to the youth is get help when you can because the pain never goes away.”

Their message: Healing is possible, even when the pain never fully leaves.

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