CONYERS, Ga. — While many families are spending time together, celebrating the holiday season, there are other households coping with the loss of a loved one. Imani Roberson's mother is among those grieving a tragic loss.
The 29-year-old mother of four was killed over the summer. The Rockdale County Sheriff's Office began investigating Roberson's case as a missing person on July 17. The following month, the case turned into a homicide investigation after her body was found near her burned vehicle in southwest Atlanta.
Her boys, ages 11, 10, 3 years old, and a 6-month-old, now live with Roberson's mother, Clarine Andujar White, and her husband.
With any loss, the first year always seems the toughest. Those first birthdays, anniversaries and holidays.
"The holidays are exceptionally hard," explained White.
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She has made it her mission to raise her daughter's boys and to make sure they know the amazing woman who brought them into this world. Roberson's presence can be felt throughout their home in Conyers.
"The more her memory is here the better we'll all feel," she said.
"I can remember her (Imani) coming in the house, just remember so many great memories," White said.
She had their Christmas tree specifically designed with her daughter in mind.
"I did the purple for domestic violence, and the pink is one of her most favorite colors and we have the doves and this little saying up here for her just having a baby," White explained.
White, who has 15 grandchildren, said while it has its challenges, they are doing their best to make sure Imani's boys have the best future possible and to help them overcome this tremendous loss.
"We're here to represent Imani and to make sure the children are in a safe place," she said, "we can also make new memories and keep the old memories alive."
White offered a little advice to others who are experiencing the same journey of grief.
“Always remember, and it’s a book from my niece; grief is love, so actually, in loving that person, you can grieve as well," she said.
As for Roberson's case: her husband, Donnell Anderson, is currently locked up and accused of her murder. White said she's been informed he could go to trial in early 2024. Anderson's brother is also charged in the homicide.
An online campaign has been set up to help make sure the children have everything they need in life to grow up, be successful and carry on their mom's legacy.
If you need to speak with someone or know someone who does, please reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline. Someone is available 24/7 at 1-800-799-7233. For a list of resources across Georgia, click here.