After the grandmother is discovered dead, the family speaks out

The family of Ina Balch is mourning the loss of their beloved matriarch after police connected a possible murderer to her death. Ina, a cherished mother and grandmother, was remembered by her loved ones for her vibrant personality, deep faith, and love for others. Her granddaughters, Rachel Tiller and Melissa Garcia, spoke about the impact Ina had on their lives and the void her passing has left behind.

A Loving and Faithful Woman

In a heartfelt tribute to her grandmother, Rachel Tiller described Ina as someone who always dressed to impress, with a lively spirit and a sense of style. “She loved to dress up. She dressed to the nines,” Rachel said, emphasizing how Ina’s character shone through in every aspect of her life.

Melissa Garcia, another granddaughter, fondly remembered Ina as someone who made time for everyone, often spending hours on the phone with her loved ones. “She was that person that would spend hours on the phone, like you knew if you call, you just needed a stop, whatever you’re doing, and make time,” Melissa said.

Both granddaughters noted that Ina’s deep faith was the foundation of her character. “She loved people. It didn’t matter who you were. It didn’t matter where you came from. All she wanted to know was, did you know the Lord?” Melissa reflected, highlighting Ina’s inclusive and compassionate nature.

Last Memories and Heartfelt Goodbye

The day before Ina’s death, Melissa visited her grandmother to give her an early Christmas gift – a new recliner. In a touching moment, Melissa captured Ina’s gratitude as she excitedly expressed her appreciation for the gift. “She’s just like, thank you so much. I love it. I love it. Thank you so much,” Melissa recalled.

Later that night, Ina called Melissa to thank her one last time. Melissa expressed sadness, saying, “I’m sad because I didn’t talk to her as long as I normally do.” It’s these last memories and the cherished keepsakes that Rachel and Melissa hold onto as they remember their grandmother.

A Life Full of Joy and Generosity

Rachel and Melissa say that Ina was more than just a grandmother – she was a vibrant and joyful force in their lives. “She was everything,” Rachel said. “Like she said, we grew up, every summer at her house, she took us on all the trips. She could turn nothing into something.”

Melissa added, “She was full of life and full of joy, and, you know, she brought that to everybody that she met, and now that’s gone.” The loss has left a significant void in the family, but they are determined to keep Ina’s spirit alive through their memories of her.

Forgiveness and Faith Amidst Tragedy

Despite the tragic circumstances surrounding Ina’s death, Rachel and Melissa both believe that Ina would have extended forgiveness to the person responsible for her death. “If she could talk to that man right now, this is hard for me to say and to think about, but she would say, I forgive you, and she would ask him if he knew Jesus,” Melissa shared, reflecting Ina’s compassionate and forgiving nature.

Ina’s family is still grappling with the pain of her loss, and while learning about what happened has been difficult, they find comfort in sharing her story and the cherished memories they have of her.

Ongoing Investigation and Charges Pending

While the family grieves, official charges against the man accused of killing Ina are expected to be filed soon. As the investigation continues, Ina’s family remains hopeful that justice will be served, while they hold onto the love and warmth that Ina brought into their lives.

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