HOUSTON – A family's pain was on full display Saturday, including a mother's grief so powerful it was hard for her to stand.
Saturday was the day to say goodbye to 8-year-old De'Maree Adkins, precious child taken in a heartless act one week ago.
"She had this smartsy, cutesy, serious disposition about herself," De'Maree's great aunt said.
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De'Maree was on the honor roll at MacGregor Elementary. She loved to learn, she loved school and she loved her violin. It was played at the funeral in her honor.
Her funeral brought hundreds to the church. Her classmates read the Scriptures, and her school presenting an honorary diploma.
Even Mayor Sylvester Turner and police Chief Art Acevedo shared their thoughts.
"She will forever be your child, but I came by as mayor of this city to let you know that she is our child too," Turner said.
"Although you only had that precious angel for only 8 years, you gave her more love than many children get in a lifetime," Acevedo said.
Turner proclaimed the day as De'Maree Adkins Day.
It was a time for celebrating the 8-year-old's life, but Pastor D.Z. Cofield took on a more serious note.
"We must celebrate her life, but let's remember that there are too many chances for all of us to be here," Cofield said.
He said these senseless deaths are happening all too often.
"Somewhere along the lines, my brothers and sisters, we are going to have to stand, those of us who know better, those of us who do better, we have to stand and say enough is enough," Cofield said.
He said it should never be acceptable for violence to touch an innocent child.
If you would like to help the family, visit De’Maree Adkins GoFundMe.