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Sam Penrod reportingBest friends and smiles, that's how the brothers of murder victim Kristy Ragsdale are remembering her. Her oldest brother, Tony Palizzi, sat down with our Sam Penrod today.
Kristy's family is facing not only the shock of her unexpected death, but also the emotions of losing a loved one in a murder by someone who was close to all of them. Despite that, they are trying to focus on Kristy and the memories they have of her.
As you look at photographs of Kristy Ragsdale, her four brothers say you will always see her smiling and with her arm around someone.
Palizzi said, "She had a really big heart, she's one of those kind of people that could have many best friends. Most people, I think, have one or two best friends, maybe a very small group; but she had a big enough heart, she could have a lot of best friends."
One of Kristy's best friends was her mother, who was visiting from out of state to help her through her divorce. She was going to church with Kristy and was with her when she was shot and killed.
"She is holding up phenomenally. She is really a strong woman, and she's been there for other friends of hers who have lost adult children through various circumstances," Palizzi said.
There has been a lot of concern for Kristy's two boys, who are being cared for now by family members.
And despite her violent death, Kristy's family remains committed to supporting David's family through this tragedy. "We want to be united with the Ragsdale family in dealing with this and not hold animosity towards the family," Palizzi said.
Kristy's family says they have been overwhelmed by all of the support, not only from friends, but even strangers. They believe Kristy's memory can best be honored by helping someone in need. "My mother has asked if someone wants something to do to try and emulate Kristy, find someone who is down, maybe depressed, and find a way to cheer them up and befriend them. Try to emulate Kristy; that's the best thing you can do for us."
The funeral for Kristy Ragsdale is Saturday morning in Lehi.
If you'd like to help Kristy's sons, the families suggest you contribute to a fund at Wells Fargo Bank for the children's benefit.
