‘My mom was full of joy;’ Daughter of Southport shooting victim shares tribute at vigil

SOUTHPORT, NC (WWAY-TV) – A prayer vigil was held on Saturday in the Southport Waterfront Park to honor the lives lost during the mass shooting on Sept. 27.

Hailey Rogers is the daughter of Joy Rogers, one of the three people shot and killed. She shared her story during the prayer vigil.

“When I arrived at the scene, the location was filled with police and immediately understood the severity of the situation, I saw my dad and I realized that she was already gone,” she said.

In the midst of her grief, she turned to her faith.

“I didn’t know what to say but I opened up the bible that I had in my hands and I turned to Psalms 18 which proclaims that Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer,” Hailey said.

Their family has just recently moved to Southport from California.

“As many people have asked me what my mom was like, my mom was marked by a humble spirit that was quick to listen and slow to speak. My mom also lived up to her name, she was full of joy that only come from knowing Christ.”

The park was full of attendees as they heard from Hailey, local law enforcement and several others who shared a prayer and encouragement to the Southport community

Brunswick County sheriff Brian Chism offered words of unity.

“The only way were gonna make it through it is if we stand together as a law enforcement community so that’s why I need you to stand together as the Southport community,” Chism said.

Sharonda Hankins Davis goes to Generations Church where Joy Rogers attended and she worked alongside Hailey to organize the event.

“Beautiful turn out today, just grateful for everyone who showed up with love and support and that was the goal, mission accomplished that the community was able to come together and pour love on the family,” Hankins Davis said.

The prayer vigil included a rendition of “Amazing Grace,” the Lord’s Prayer and a moment of silence for the lives lost.