BELL, Fla. – Channeling their grief into a celebration of their young lives -- that's how a small town is choosing to honor seven of their own.
Sunday night, hundreds of Bell families came together for a candlelight vigil as they prepared to say goodbye to the victims of last Thursday's tragedy.
Sarah Spirit, 28, was shot and killed along with her three sons and three daughters. The children, Kaleb Kuhlmann, Kylie Kuhlmann, Johnathon Kuhlmann, Destiny Stewart, Brandon Stewart and Alanna Stewart, were shot and killed by 51-year old Don Spirit, who then turned the gun on himself.
Beginning with the youngest, the Gilchrist County superintendent recited the names of each child, ending with their 28-year old mother.
Those in attendance sang "Jesus Loves the Little Children, all the children of the world," and although their hearts were heavy, hundreds of Bell residents held their candles high and their loved ones close. Many said they are still in disbelief.
"Just the thought of the children seeing each one of their siblings -- because he couldn't have done it all at once -- they suffered. And that's what breaks my heart," said Monica Tuten.
The victims' names were written on paper bags, small keepsakes were displayed and their smiling faces were framed for everyone to see. Those who spoke said each child had "spirit, spunk and a whole lot of smiles."
Donna Fagan is executive director for Another Way, Inc., a domestic violence shelter available in Gilchrist County. She said her prayer is that this tragedy will inspire others to get the help they need.
"I don't know how many people knew about what was going on before. So, do not keep quiet. Speak out. Let people know what you're going through. Just ask for help," Fagan said.
Near the end of the ceremony, it was announced that seven oak trees will be planted at Bell Elementary School for the young lives lost. For some, it gives great comfort knowing they're now at peace.
"Like I told my kids, now the good thing is, they're still with their mother. I mean, she's right there with them," Tuten said.
The family is still making funeral arrangements and is collecting money at a crowdfunding website to help with expenses.