The loss of a life prematurely is the most tragic situation a community can deal with.

Leaj Jarvis Price was shot and killed by her husband on April 13, 2015, at a doctor’s office near the couple’s residence as she tried to escape her attacker.

The incident rocked the city of Jemison, and there are no words to describe the effect on the family of the victim.

But hope can be found in tragedy. Even an incident like this one can be used for good if there are people with the strength and courage to do so.

Price’s friends and family are doing that as they plan to hold a candlelight vigil beginning at 6 p.m. on April 12 at Goose Pond Park in Clanton intended to bring awareness to domestic violence.

“Anyone is welcome to attend,” even organizer Lithia Davenport told The Clanton Advertiser. “This is for anyone who has lost a loved one to domestic violence and a chance for them to tell their stories. We are trying to bring awareness to this issue and give people information about how to pay attention to the signs.

“A lot of times family members of those being abused don’t know the signs to look for. We just want people to come out and learn more so we can put a stop to this issue.”

No one would ever choose to have to hold an event in memory of a loved one, but in the wake of the tragedy, it’s commendable that friends and family want to make a difference.

“I want to try to always remember Leaj and bring awareness to domestic violence,” said Margaret Johnson, Price’s mother. “If other people need help, they need to ask for it.”

Organizations available to help with domestic abuse include the Family Sunshine Center at (800) 650-6522 or the National Domestic Violence Hotline at (800) 799-SAFE (7233).