Slain Chicago Pastor Remembered For Compassion, Giving Spirit

CHICAGO — A Chicago pastor and church pantry volunteer who was beaten to death over the weekend during a home invasion is being remembered as a beloved family member who spent her life spreading love, hope and compassion.

Marisol Berrios died on Sunday after police said the 53-year-old was attacked by Marvin Wells.

According to police, Wells broke into the pastor’s home in Chicago’s West Garfield Park neighborhood. Police said that Wells was arrested after he crashed his car after the attack and was found to have Berrios’ purse in his possession.

Wells has been charged with murder, home invasion and armed robbery in the incident. Berrios’ family has started a GoFundMe effort to collect money for the pastor’s funeral expenses. As of Wednesday, the effort has raised more than $5,300 of a $10,000 goal.

A prayer vigil will be held at 6 p.m. on Friday at Grace And Peace Church, which is located at 1856 N. Leclaire Ave. in Chicago.

“She touched countless lives through her faith, inspiring sermons, and unwavering commitment to helping those in need,” said Edwin Nieves, Jr., who organized the GoFundMe along with members of Berrios’ family. “Her strong, soulful spirit resonated with everyone she met.”

He added: "Let's come together to remember the strong, soulful woman who dedicated her life to helping others and ensure that her memory continues to inspire kindness and compassion."

Wells, 59, was also charged with having a stolen vehicle and one felony count of possession of a controlled substance. Police said Wells broke into Berrios’ home in the 4200 block of West Adams Street just before 8 a.m. on Saturday and fatally injured her.

Friends of the pastor said that Berrios was known to provide assistance to anyone who needed it, including the man now charged with her killing.

“When I saw his face, my heart was broken because this is someone she fed and even given money to,” Berrios’ friend, Leatisha Bailey told Fox 32 about Berrios' spirit. “Marisol would say, ‘Honey, I know they are addicts, they just need a chance, and they just need something to do.’"