CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Those who knew and loved a former Hopewell High School guidance counselor came together Sunday in her memory.
Police said 43-year-old Marcia Winningham's was shot and killed early Friday morning. Two other people were injured in the shooting. Winningham's estranged husband, David Fields, 44, was arrested in Virginia, charged with murder and two counts of assault.
Her former students spoke about the difference she made in their lives.
Through flickering flames and tears, they shared fond memories. One of them, Brittany Dappie, helped organize the vigil.
"She was more than a guidance counselor, actually, she was a friend," Dappie said. "Every day I'd go into her office and I'd talk to her and she'd encourage me."
Recently, Winningham was a counselor with New Choices Youth and Family Services, which is owned by Kino Williams. Williams said she was a bubbly employee who everyone loved.
"I will always remember her smile from the day I met her for the first interview. Just a big smile," Williams said.
The groups released balloons colored purple in honor of Domestic Violence Awareness month and a loved one gone too soon.
WSOC
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