JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Loved ones gathered at Losco Regional Park Saturday for a vigil to celebrate the life of a 21-year-old woman who police said was killed by a co-worker.
Detectives said Lee Rodarte, 28, who police said was a culinary manager at Bonefish Grill on San Jose Boulevard, admitted to killing Gold, who also worked at the restaurant after police confronted him with discrepancies between his statement and what was seen on surveillance video in the parking lot of the restaurant.
Family members spent the day doing the things Gold loved to do: playing lacrosse and painting. They said Losco Park was always a special place for Gold, saying she would frequent park to think and spend time outdoors.
Pictures of Gold were on display inside a tent where people could pay their respects.
Gold’s uncle, Frank Pastine, told News4Jax that the large turnout reflects how many lives she touched.
“She didn’t care who you were, what you did for a living or how much money you made. She just loved people for who they were and what amounted to her was what was in the heart,” Pastine said.
The family said they are grateful for everyone who showed up at the vigil and for all of the continued support.
Gold’s funeral will be held Sunday. It is closed to the public.