Family and friends say farewell to Newport shooting victim Cheryl Hooper
Friends and family gathered to pay their respects to a mother who was killed outside her home.
Dozens of people turned out for the funeral of Cheryl Hooper, which took place at St Michael’s Church in Lilleshall.
The funeral procession travelled towards the church at about 11.35am before the start of the service at midday.
Cheryl, who worked at Lawley Dental Practice in Telford, was killed outside her home in Farmer’s Gate, Newport, on January 27.
In the weeks since her death, friends have collected more than £5,300 in the hopes that it will help support her daughter.
The fundraiser, which was started by colleague Hannah Mennie, is aiming to collect £30,000.
Money has still been flooding in during the run-up to the funeral, with people leaving notes about their memories of the “beautiful” Newport resident as well.
Will Wellings said: “We will miss you Cheryl, you were such a kind, happy and loving lady.”
Gary Whitby said: “Cheryl always made us laugh and had an infectious smile.
“Still struggling to understand why.”
Debbie Prince said: “Cheryl was my neighbour when I first moved to Newport over 25 years ago.
"I remember her as beautiful on the inside as well as on the outside.”
A candlelit vigil was held in Farmer’s Gate on February 1. It included speeches and prayers from local people.
Various churches were open in the week following her death as a place for people to mourn or light a candle. Books of condolence were available to sign.
A 45-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of murder, but remains in hospital with gunshot wounds.
Police said today that he was still in a serious condition. They are not treating his injuries as of suspicious origin.
