Another woman has died after a brutal stabbing on Sept. 20 at a home along Montgomery Avenue in Tice.
Two weeks after the stabbing, 56-year-old Traci Perry died at Gulf Coast Medical Center on Wednesday. Her death came after a long fight for her life, but even in her final moments, Traci chose to help others by becoming an organ donor.
Traci's daughter, Emily Perry, 27, died at the hospital on Sept. 21.
Two men were arrested for the deadly stabbing that happened on Sept. 20. Shad Loveless, 45, and Zachary Williams, 21. The Lee County Sheriff's Office said they arrested them for robbing and stabbing Emily and Traci during a drug deal.
Traci and Emily's family and friends gathered outside Gulf Coast Medical Center on Thursday. They held a flag-raising ceremony to honor Traci and Emily, donating their organs to save lives.
The flag will fly over the hospital for three days to symbolize that the gift of life has been shared.
Traci’s ex-sister-in-law, Sally Gallardo, reflected on the impact Traci had on her family and community.
“Traci was a good mom, grandma, and friend,” Gallardo said, “She was always volunteering at church and loved her grandkids more than anything.”
Emily Perry was remembered as a kind and caring person who was always willing to help others. Gallardo spoke of the family’s grief, saying, “We just don’t think they deserved this, but we’re hoping for justice.”
The Perry family is still raising money to give both women the proper burial they deserve.
The Lee County Sheriff's Office said it is working with the State Attorney's Office for an added charge following Traci's death.
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