By Sunshine Kuhia Smith, KITV4, 23 Apr. 2022

A memorial is planned for a 38-year-old Makaha mother who was beaten to death by her 19-year-old son.

Michelle McPeek’s neighbors, family, friends and community leaders are planning a sunset vigil near where the woman died on Monday, April 25 at 5:30 p.m.

The woman described as humble and loving will be remembered through a prayer service, music and shared memories from those who knew her.

“She always was so friendly, always loving other people. Always wanting to have smiles on her face and making her kids happy. That’s the way she would want to be remembered,” Kuulei Lincoln, Michelle’s best friend of 15 years, told KITV4.

Michelle’s oldest son, Joshua McPeek is charged with second-degree murder in her death.

“She always tried her best to make them happy, or be there for them like a mother would,” Lincoln explained. “She put him in youth challenge to try and help him get him on track. He graduated from youth challenge. And then, this is what happens…it’s just heart wrenching and it’s so heartbreaking.”

Senator Maile Shimabukuro, Representative Cedric Gates and Honolulu Police officers are expected to attend the vigil in support of their community.

The vigil will be located at the second entrance to Upena Street.