Family gathers to honor woman fatally shot in Leonidas neighborhood

NEW ORLEANS ( WGNO ) — Loved ones gathered in the Leonidas neighborhood to mourn a woman who lost her life in what New Orleans Police Department detectives say appears to be a murder-suicide.

June 29, 2024, is now a day Felicia Cooper's family will remember forever, the day they lost their loved one.

"We all know what type of person she was loveable," said Cooper's brother.

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A sea of balloons could be seen as a vigil was held in her honor following her tragic death. The family is still processing this loss, remembering her as a sweet soul taken too soon.

"I just want you to know you are going to go out loved and respected. We got you. We've got the children. Just know you are loved," said Cooper's sister, Ebony Harmon.

Those who knew Cooper describe her as loving and always happy. She leaves behind two children. Family members say she would do anything to see them smile, reminding everyone it's up to them to make sure that even though she is gone, it still happens.

"She always had a smile on her face. I know this is a sad moment, but let's just try to make the best out of it for her children because at the end of the day, it takes a village and Febe was their village. We have to be that village," said Cooper's sister-in-law, Lequinta Dillon.

Her brothers say this highlights the need for people to speak up when it comes to domestic violence.

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"Tell somebody, holding its end, it only gets worse. Never know what could have happened, who could have saved somebody? People just got to start speaking up," said Cooper's brother.

As they continue to grieve the loss of their loved one, one family member emphasizes that they have to learn how to forgive not for the other person but for themselves.

"She wasn't the type of person to hold a grudge. She was lovable. Her spirit and smile lit up a room and everybody knew that came in contact with her. As hard as it is to forgive, we have to. Not for just her, but for ourselves," said Cooper's cousin.

The family tells WGNO they are still waiting to see what comes out of the NOPD investigation following the late response to their loved ones' home.

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