Funeral homes deal with aftermath of violence: "My heart actually aches for the families"

MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- Death is a grim reality many of us will face at one time or another. But when it comes unexpected and is the result of violence, it's tragic. It's hardships like those which Milwaukee funeral homes are facing more regularly than normal.

"My heart actually aches for the families because I understand what you're going through," said Angie Moore, funeral director for New Pitts Mortuary.

Sadly another Milwaukee family is dealing with tragedy as a tribute of balloons and bears are placed at the spot where Archie Brown was killed. The final goodbyes will be said at a visitation Sunday at New Pitts Mortuary.

Just as loved ones are torn up over his death, Brown was also distraught after he hit two-year-old Damani Terry with his van, killing the child.

The child's uncle, Ricky Chiles, is believed to have then opened fire on Brown, killing him. Chiles' took his own life Thursday as police closed in on him in Chicago.

It's these heart wrenching situations that make it tough -- even for the professionals who deal with death often.

"Just working with the families, you see the pain they are going through and the screeching cries. And it's really hard to deal with their death as well," said Moore.

The funeral home where Moore works has seen its fair share of families torn apart by violence. It also held services last summer for ten-year-old Sierra Guyton who was struck by a stray bullet on a playground.

"I don't know what is going to stop the violence. We have so many people out here, community advocates trying to resolve the issues and its getting worse," said Moore.

Moore speaks out hoping to make a chance -- and pray those who do harm understand the impact.

"Just think before you react. Life is too short as it is and to be taken to too soon. And it's really hard on us, the family and the community as a whole," said Moore.

New Pitts has been a go-to place for many families who have lost loved ones to violence. The owner gives a lot back to the community -- and tries to help families who are dealing with these unexpected deaths.

Moore says typically, 15 percent of families they assist in a year are burying a loved one due to homicide. But she says they are already pacing higher in 2015.