JACKSONVILLE – The family of the woman who was run over while trying to stop shoplifters from stealing from her Jacksonville beauty store is remembering their loved one.
She died exactly a week ago around 6 p.m. at the Beauty Max on Atlantic Boulevard in the Kernan Village shopping plaza.
RELATED: Beauty Max employee fatally run over while confronting shoplifters trying to get away
The family identified the victim as Ilson Miriam Kim, 64, the Beauty Max beauty supply store owner.
“Ilson’s shoes can’t be filled. The family is in shock over her senseless and tragic loss. We lost our family’s peacekeeper and anchor,” Kim’s family sent in a statement. “She was a hardworking entrepreneur who took great pride in her business. She loved her work because of the opportunities it allowed her to provide for her family.”
Kim was originally from Korea but came to the United States in the late 80s, chasing the American dream. She worked alongside her husband for much of her life but the Beauty Max store was the first business she owned independently.
“Everything she accomplished in her life was through sheer grit and determination. Though she was at times hesitant, she didn’t want fear to conquer her,” Kim’s family stated. “She was in her 60s when she learned how to swim and had taken up Zumba to get in better health.”
According to JSO, that Friday night, two people entered the store stole several items, and ran out. Kim followed one of the shoplifters to the car and was run over in the process.
“We don’t know exactly why she decided to confront the shoplifters, but the store had experienced thefts in the recent past,” the family stated. “Someone even had the audacity to steal from the store the day after her death.”
Business owners in the shopping plaza also told News4JAX’s Briana Brownlee shoplifting is a major issue for businesses in the area.
Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the victim was in their 60s and there were three suspects. At last check with JSO, there haven’t been any arrests.
Kim leaves behind her husband of 38 years, two daughters, and siblings. Her family will remember her for her kindness and generosity
“Her children will forever cherish the experiences they shared traveling the world with their mother. She was incredibly hardworking but wanted to experience all life had to offer,” Kim’s family stated. “The joy and love she brought to everyone will be missed immensely.
Funeral services will be held Sunday, Dec. 15, in Marlton, New Jersey. The family asks the community to think about actions that may harm others.
If you have any information regarding the case, you are asked to call JSO or First Coast Crimestoppers at 1-866-845-TIPS (8477) where you can leave an anonymous tip and earn $3,000.00.
The family started a GoFundMe to help with funeral expenses.
