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Family, community gather in New Jersey to remember mother, daughter killed in Willingboro home
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Family, community gather in New Jersey to remember mother, daughter killed in Willingboro home

Family members and community residents gathered outside a home on Harrington Circle in Willingboro to honor the life Catherine Nunez, 33, and her mother, Marisol, who were shot and killed inside the residence last week.

The home where Catherine lived with her 8-year-old son became a place of mourning and remembrance as loved ones traveled from out of town to pay their respects. Marisol’s brother-in-law Joseph Puig spoke of their impact on family and friends, describing both women as “the epitome of kindness.”

“They’re both beautiful souls and they didn’t deserve this,” Puig said.

Tragedy unfolded on Wednesday morning when police found both women. Authorities said Junior Edwardsthe father of Catherine’s son, entered the house through a window and killed both women. Police reported that the 8-year-old boy, who was home at the time, was unharmed, and a firearm was found outside the home.

Family members shared memories of both women, saying they were happy people who loved music and dancing. Marisol was known as “Morena” to those close to her and went to church every Sunday with Carmen by her side.

Catherine’s boyfriend, Joshua Jackson, described her as a devoted mother.

“I can’t say enough nice things about her,” Jackson said. “She was a great mother, she loved her son. She always did everything for her son.”

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Maria Nunez.


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Maria Nunez.


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Maria Nunez.


As the investigation continues, the family said the young man remains in state custody.

The gathering drew community members, friends and supporters, including Kelly Logan, founder of the “Don’t drop the weapon”, which offered support to the bereaved family.

“We’re here today just to shower love on the family,” Logan said.

As evening fell, dozens of people attended a vigil, joining hands in prayer. A local pastor encouraged the crowd to remember Marisol and Catherine in their prayers.

Charlee Harris, another attendee, asked for prayers for Catherine’s son, urging the community to support him emotionally.

“And the prayers for the son, we have to make sure we lift him up as well,” Harris said.

The family said funeral arrangements will be held Thursday and Friday at Ortiz Funeral Home in Brooklyn, New York.