Friends and family members took turns writing messages on a memory board for Nickera Smith at a candlelight vigil held in her honour at the Noel Lloyd Positive Action Movement Park. Photo: KATIE KING

Loving. Humble. Hardworking.

Friends and family members took turns writing messages on a memory board for Nickera Smith at a candlelight vigil held in her honour at the Noel Lloyd Positive Action Movement Park. Photo: KATIE KING
These words were repeatedly used to describe Nickera Smith during a candlelight vigil held in her honour on Tuesday evening at the Noel Lloyd Positive Action Movement Park in Road Town.

“She was a loving, kind person,” said her former English instructor, Natalio “Sowande Uhuru” Wheatley. “In my class she worked hard and she never caused a problem.”

Jeralie Charles, a friend of the deceased, said it hurts to know Ms. Smith’s life was taken at a young age.

“I kept saying she would come back and everything would be okay,” she recalled.            

The body of Ms. Smith, who was reported missing by her family on Jan. 29, was recovered in the Hawks Nest area of Tortola on March 30.

The 22-year-old, who worked at Colonial Insurance BVI, was last seen leaving her home in Hope Hill on Jan. 27.

Deputy Police Commissioner Alwin James confirmed that police are dealing with the matter as a murder enquiry.

The vigil, which started at 5:30 p.m. with a walk from the Festival Village Grounds to the park, also included prayers and songs.

Information can be reported to the Major Crime Team directly at 368-5682 or the Intelligence Department at 368-9339.

Tips can also be reported anonymously through the Miami-based Crime Stoppers hotline, 800-8477.

See the May 19, 2016 edition for full coverage.

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