Murder victim fondly remembered by family and friends

Family and friends of Sylvia Vaca Abacay (known as Kelly Kelyta), who was brutally murdered Aug. 10, in Seven Corners, remember her as a devoted mother and loving wife.

A GoFundMe page set up to raise money for funeral costs says Kelly, who is from Bolivia, “leaves behind her beloved husband, 14-year-old daughter, and 17-year old son, and many other relatives and friends.”

Related story: Man arrested for murdering a woman and setting her on fire

Kelly, age 40, died in her home at 2916 Willston Place after being stabbed and set on fire. Police arrested Richard Montano, 47 of Arlington, on Aug. 11. He was charged with second-degree murder, burglary with the intent to commit murder, and the burning of an occupied dwelling.

The GoFundMe campaign has already raised more than $6,000, which will also be used to send her back to Bolivia and “help her children as they adjust to their loss and continue their education.”

“Kelly was friendly and full of joy and always there to help others,” the GoFundMe campaign states. “She was loved by so many and will be deeply missed. Her family and friends are heartbroken at their loss.”