CHICAGO – A vigil was held Saturday night honoring the life of an 85-year-old grandmother whose body was found after she went missing last Sunday.
“Obviously we wish that she was here with us today,” said Karina Juarez, granddaughter of Francisca Renteria.
With candles in hand and shirts with her face, family and friends filled Wentworth Park to remember 85-year-old Renteria.
“She was just very sweet. Like I said, she just wanted to come here and be with her kids, and at least she got her wish to be with all of her kids,” Juarez said.
Renteria, who had demenita, recently moved from Mexico to be with her family in Chicago. She was staying at a relative’s home near 56th Street and Melvina in Garfield Ridge.
She went missing last Sunday after walking out of the house.
“You all helped us have hope,” said granddaughter Estephani Villa at the vigil.
Community members united to search for Renteria, hoping to find her alive. Sadly, her body was found Wednesday.
“Everyone just helped us out so much, so we just thank you for being here, showing us what a community is showing us that we aren’t alone.
Renteria’s granddaughters said police do not suspect foul play in the case, but that she died of natural causes.
“We thank you all for joining us. Thank you for showing up, helping search, putting up fliers, and again trying to give us hope,” Villa said.
Renteria’s granddaughters said they hope to share more information about funeral services on Monday or Tuesday. There is also a GoFundMe page to help the family with expenses for the funeral.