Families Of The Missing And Murdered Hold Vigil In Tulsa

By Lori Fullbright, The News On 6

TULSA, OK -- Families who have a loved one who's been murdered or is missing share a common bond that no one else can truly understand. It's a group that no one wants to be a part of, but far too many are.

That's why there's an annual vigil to bring those families together and honor their loved ones, and it's scheduled for Saturday in Tulsa.

Each person at the vigil represents a tragedy and a family who is grieving.  

Jason Trent's son, Jake, was murdered in May and the case is still unsolved, although the main suspect is also a suspect in two other murders.

Edna Pitts' daughter Tina has been missing for three years. She left behind three children and while police found her blood in her boyfriend's truck, there was never enough evidence for an arrest.

And, Sheila Owens' daughter Tricia has been missing for seven years. She had just adopted a little boy and was a foster mother. The last time she talked to anyone, she said her ex-boyfriend was giving her a ride home. She's never been seen or heard from again.

Her mother started the vigil as a way to mark the anniversary of Tricia's disappearance, but, it's now grown into a gathering so others experiencing loss can find comfort.

"I want them to get the sense they are  part of another family now and that's all of us together, and we're here for them - not just one day a year - but anytime they need us," said Sheila Owen, Tricia's mother.

They all wish there was not a need for such a get together in our society, but the sad truth is, the need is greater than ever as more people turn up missing and more are murdered each week.

Even though this will be Jason's first vigil, he encourages others to attend.

Jason Trent, Jake's father: "Come and hear stories of people who have lost loved ones and have survived it," said Jason Trent, Jake's father.

They say banding together not only helps them survive, but, they hope will also someday make a difference.

The seventh annual vigil for missing and murdered loved ones is Saturday, November 21, from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Lawnwood Free Will Baptist Church, 4115 West Edison in Tulsa.

Sheila Owen, Jason Trent, Edna Pitts and Pastor Steve Loveless are guest speakers. There will be lots of food and fingerprint kits for children.

The survivors will release balloons with messages of love. Survivors are encouraged to bring photographs of their loved ones and to share memories.