BUFFALO, N.Y. — Family members of Ruth Whitfield bravely stood inside Durham Memorial A.M.E. Zion Church Monday to honor her memory, alongside nationally renowned civil rights attorney Ben Crump.

"A hero for this community. An angel for her family. Ruth Whitfield was a person of love,” said Crump. “And we won't let this act of hate define that love."

Ruth was one of 10 killed at Tops on Jefferson Avenue in Buffalo, allegedly at the hands of an 18-year-old gunman, in what Crump says can only be described as an act of domestic terrorism.

"We can't sugarcoat it,” said Crump. “We can't try to explain it away talking about mental illness. No."

Crump and his associates called for an investigation into the alleged shooter. He's also looking to get to the root of the hate, and hold politicians, internet sites and national cable news channels accountable.

"It's these people who are accomplices to this mass murder,” said Crump. “And even though they may not have pulled the trigger, they did load the gun. This is what Ruth Witfield's spirit commands us to do: to inspire change."

Her family is also calling for change, as her two sons took time to remember their mom.

"The person who held us together throughout our entire life,” said Farnell Whitfield. “There's nothing we can do to that's going to take away the hurt. Take away these tears. Take away the pain. Take away the hole in our hearts. What I love most about my mom is how she loved us."

"I was brought into the world on Mother's Day. My mother shared with me over the years that I was the best gift ever, but I couldn't protect her on that day,” said Raymond Whitfeld.

Her two daughters spoke as well.

"My mom was my best friend,” said Robin Harris. “We went fishing together. We went camping together. Mom, we love you."

"She was beautiful,” said Angela Crawley. “She was immaculate. And she loved us. Dad, we're going to be here for you."

Her granddaughter had some loving words too.

"She was a devoted grandmother, mother and wife,” said Kamilah Whitfield. “And she gave so much of herself to her family. She loved cooking big meals. And she will be missed. We love you, grandmommy."

The family is now faced with telling Ruth's husband of more than 60 years, who has been in a nursing home for the last eight.