The Alberton community is coming together to honour the life of the late Juanita Vermeulen, who was murdered last week.

The act of violence has left family, friends, and residents deeply shaken.

In response to her death, a memorial vigil, In Her Name: Juanita – A Day of Remembrance and Solidarity, has been organised as a space for collective mourning, reflection, and unity.

The gathering, scheduled to take place on January 16 at 12:00 at Meyersdal Park, situated on Hart Avenue, closed Doxa Deo, is intended to honour Juanita’s life with dignity and care, while standing in quiet solidarity with all women affected by violence.

Organisers have emphasised that the event is not a protest or political action, but a respectful remembrance held with consideration for her family and ongoing legal processes.

Alongside the vigil, a BackaBuddy fundraising campaign has been created in Juanita’s name to assist with funeral and memorial expenses and to help support her nine-year-old daughter.

ALSO READ: Blood stains found at home after woman discovered stabbed in Brackenhurst

The campaign has drawn significant public support, reflecting the impact Juanita had on those around her and the community’s desire to honour her legacy in a meaningful way.

The campaign’s target amount is R25 000, and by the time the Alberton Record published the article, R14 115 had been raised.

Juanita Vermeulen will be remembered by those who knew her as a loving mother, a warm and generous friend, and a respected professional.

Being a mother was described as the greatest joy of her life, and everything she did was rooted in love and care for her child. Tributes speak of her open home, her kindness, and her belief in the good in others.

Juanita was reported missing on Friday, January 9, and was later found dead in the boot of her vehicle at a shopping centre in Alberton.

She had sustained multiple stab wounds and was declared dead at the scene.

Police have since confirmed that a 42-year-old man, identified as her husband, has been arrested in connection with the murder.

ALSO READ: Suspect arrested after woman’s body found in a car boot in Brackenhurst

He is expected to appear in court on January 19, while the investigation continues under the Serious and Violent Crimes Unit.

As the community prepares to honour Juanita’s life, many have expressed a shared commitment to remembering her not only for the manner of her death but also for the love, strength, and compassion she brought to others’ lives.

Her name, they say, will not be forgotten.

If you would like to donate, click on the link: Juanita’s memorial.

WATCH: Woman’s body found in car boot at Brackenhurst shopping centre